Outdoor adventure has always been key to Kawarthas Northumberland’s appeal, with countless opportunities for hiking, cycling, paddling, and more. To fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape, why not book a campsite and stay awhile?
On the list below you’ll find options ranging from multi-day paddling expeditions to easy car camping to glamping. On top of all the fresh air you’ll get, these selection have the appeal of being more affordable yet just as enriching as options much more expensive and harder to reach.
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
This is the largest and most varied camping option in Kawarthas Northumberland—the largest in southern Ontario after Algonquin, in fact. Though all sites are paddle-in, closer sites like those on Bottle or Crab lakes involve manageable distances and short portages suitable for younger paddlers. Bottle is known for its sandy beach, while Crab earns its name for its shape, with many bays creating a sense of cozy seclusion.
More seasoned paddlers may want to take a look at multi-day routes such as the Serpentine Lake Loop or Cox Lake Loop. These options will bring you deeper into the interior of the park for a truly immersive natural experience. All sites, however, provide a rewarding and tranquil stay in beautiful Ontario backcountry, only an hour north of Peterborough.
Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Balsam Lake Provincial Park has everything you need for a classic summer camping trip—a large sandy beach, good fishing opportunities, and a selection of hiking trails. Nestled along the northern edge of Kawarthas Lakes, you’ll feel a sense of getting away from it all while still being close to many amenities. Options range from RV sites with electrical hookups, radio-free car camping, and walk-in sites offering additional privacy.
Any supplies you may need can be found in nearby Coboconk. To appreciate the unique geography, try the Lookout Trail and see eskers formed thousands of years ago by the passage of the Wisconsin Glacier.
Emily Provincial Park
Enjoy a stay by the banks of the Pigeon River, just 20 minutes outside Lindsay. Camping options here range from trailer sites to tent sites, all accessible by car. Emily Provincial Park lies along the Trent-Severn Waterway, so you can bring your boat trailer or rent a canoe from the park office. Cyclists will also appreciate access to the nearby Trans Canada Trail, with rides to Omemee, Peterborough, or beyond offering more outdoor fun.
Wolf Island Provincial Park
First of all, campers should be aware Wolf Island is a non-operating park. That means it provides no facilities and no advance booking, leaving crown land campers to paddle or boat up to one of the pre-established sites on arrival. If you can accept those limitations, you’ll find many advantages—apart from a parking pass at Lock 28, a common access point for canoeists, there are no additional fees, and the beauty of Lovesick and Lower Buckhorn lakes is yours to explore. The landscape transitions to Canadian Shield formations in this area, and the rocky islands and forested shorelines leave a powerful impression.
Ferris Provincial Park
Ferris Provincial Park has a major showcase feature—the incredible Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge. Stay a little longer at the drive-up campsites, however, and you’ll see there’s even more on offer. Hike the Drumlin Trail System and enjoy the dramatic, rolling woodlands, use the boat launch to explore the Trent-Severn Waterway, or just let the kids play at the playground and picnic area. If you’re looking for a meal, supplies, or entertainment, Downtown Campbellford is just a short drive or a picturesque walk away.
Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
Whether you’re an intrepid spelunker or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Warsaw Caves delivers. With 52 drive-up campsites serviced by accessible comfort stations, you’ve got options. The series of seven explorable caves is the obvious draw, but hikers who prefer to stay above ground can still enjoy 15km of woodland trail and limestone plain. Canoeing and kayaking on the Indian River is made easy with the park rental options, and the swimming is also excellent.
Beavermead Campground
For a more urban option, consider Peterborough’s Beavermead Campground. All campsites include a firepit, picnic table, and comfort station access, while most have hydro and water hookup and four fully accessible sites provide additional features. Beyond the shady enclave of the campground lie picnic pavilions, soccer fields, a playground, and beach—not to mention The Canadian Canoe Museum and the many attractions of Peterborough, easily accessible by bike or pedestrian pathways.
Rosedale oTENTik and Lock 8 Percy Reach
Between Cameron Lake and Balsam Lake, the Rosedale oTENTiks provide a peaceful glamping experience. Bunk-bed style beds offer comfort to those who prefer to sleep off the ground, and a propane BBQ makes grilling easy. Meanwhile, you’ll have access to lake views and the 3km Dewey’s Island Nature Reserve trail, which leads to the historic remains of a 19th century log shoot. You’ll also be a short distance away from Rosedale, Coboconk, and Fenelon Falls, three Trent-Severn Trail Towns with a variety of attractions and amenities.
Another camping option along the TSW is Lock 8. Here you’ll find a reservable site with a boat launch. It’s ideal for some relaxing fishing, or a stroll along the nearby Centennial Trail.
Ôasis Pods – Locks 9 and 10
If you’re seeking a stay that’s a little out of the ordinary, look no further. Parks Canada’s teardrop-shaped Ôasis pods provide some glamping-style convenience along the Trent-Severn Waterway. Tucked into secluded campsites and offering conveniences like solar-powered USB outlets and a propane BBQ, this is an especially comfortable and photogenic way to enjoy the outdoors.
