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The best camping near Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park adventure.

An easy-to-reach backcountry paddler’s paradise.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

87%
(43)

Harmony Resorts - Stoney Lake

9 sites ¡ RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ Peterborough, ON
You will find our campground amongst the rugged precambrian rocks and windswept pines on the shores of Stoney Lake, the crown jewel of the Kawarthas. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of our pinery sites, or experience the tranquility of our lakeside sites. Enjoy the pristine water as you relax on our private sandy beach or launch a boat to explore the lake’s hundreds of beautiful islands. Stoney Lake is known for its excellent fishing and is home to large populations of bass, walleye, and muskie. Petroglyph Provincial Park, located right across the street is a sacred Indigenous site with the largest known concentration of aboriginal rock carvings in Canada. Explore the excellent hiking trails the park has to offer or visit McGinnis Lake, one of few meromictic lakes in North America. At the end of each day the lullaby of the northern loon will call through the cool night air as you drift off to sleep. We can’t wait to share our place with you!
from 
CA$66
 / night
98%
(40)

Dragonfly Ridge Rescue Farm

4 sites ¡ Lodging98 acres ¡ ON
Dragonfly Ridge is a 98 acre farm. Our pretty cabins are perfect for folks to enjoy some glamping in the country, on the farm surrounded by friendly animals.  You can arrange to have a tour of the farm and hang out with donkeys, mini horses, llamas, alpacas, pigs, bunnies, sheep, goats, peacocks, ducks and chickens.  We have a lovely pond, and acres of forest you can explore.  Our farm is on a quiet country road where you can take a walk and enjoy the peace and quiet and connect with nature and one another without the distractions of wifi, street noises or city lights. We are within minutes of the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park with all there is to see and do there, such as hiking, paddling, exploring, swimming.  We have a fire pit where you can enjoy a spectacular night sky unimpeded by any other lights. The cabin has electricity, lights, electric fireplace for heat. In the cabin we have a double bed, a table and 2 chairs, a two-burner stove with oven, a washing up station. Fall asleep listening to owls call and wolves howling in the distance.  Wake to the sounds of the animals on the farm, you may even be able to arrange to gather your own eggs for breakfast! We are confident you won't want to leave the farm, but in case you choose to explore beyond our 98 acres there is lots to still see and do within only a short drive. We are located close to Buckhorn, where you can explore more lakes, pick your own berries or visit pumpkin patches, pick up groceries or enjoy the restaurants in Buckhorn.  Also, in nearby Bobcaygeon you can find world-class shopping and dining, parks, beaches, festivals, a heritage village, and even more lakes. One hour north of us is Haliburton, with the Haliburton Forest and Wolf visitation Centre, Sir Sam's ski resort, shops and restaurants, and Sir Sandford Fleming's college of Fine Arts. Lakefield is only 35 minutes away offering shopping, a world famous literary festival, fine dining, and antique shows most weekends. Trent University is only 40 minutes south, in Peterborough where you can watch Peterborough Petes play hockey, attend free music festivals in the summer months, experience the best restaurants around, shop, see a movie, watch the boats in the Lift Locks, a World Heritage, visit the canoe museum, skate on the canal, and much more.
from 
CA$65
 / night
100%
(4)

Open Sky Glamping Kawartha Dome

1 site ¡ Lodging24 acres ¡ Belleville, ON
Escape to nature in Kawarthas, 2 hours from Toronto. Woodland trails, cycling, star gazing, bird-watching, or immerse in nature's tranquility with the calls of loons and birdsong. Cozy up by the wood-burning stove, and watch the natural world unfold outside. Our spacious dome embraces serenity, inviting you to slow down and savor life's simple joys. Perfect for romantic getaways or adventures with friends. Marmora Retreat's Dome offers a unique and inviting escape like no other. THE SPACE This exceptional 500 sqft dome boasts spacious living quarters and 13' high ceilings adorned with a skylight that invites you to stargaze from the comfort of your cozy queen-size bed. You'll find a fully-equipped kitchenette, complete with a solar-powered fridge and freezer, allowing you to enjoy all the conveniences of home while reducing your ecological footprint. Hang out beneath the bamboo light fixtures, savor meals at the dining area for four, and stay warm by the wood-burning stove on cooler evenings. Eco-conscious guests will appreciate the bathroom featuring a composting toilet, aligning with our commitment to sustainability. With plenty of power outlets and a pull-out couch, the dome accommodates up to four guests, making it ideal for romantic getaways, nature adventures with friends, or peaceful solo retreats. Step outside onto the sprawling 500 sqft deck, where you can relax on comfortable patio furniture while observing local wildlife. A wood-burning hot tub beckons you to unwind beneath the stars, and a cozy fire pit and BBQ offer opportunities for outdoor dining and socializing. A sail shade provides shelter from the elements, and a refreshing outdoor shower completes the outdoor oasis. Marmora Retreat's Dome is entirely off-grid, running on solar power and sustainable heating, allowing you to enjoy modern comforts in harmony with nature. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a nature-filled adventure with friends, or a tranquil solo getaway, our dome promises an unforgettable experience in the embrace of the great outdoors. Come and savor off-grid living at its finest! THIS RETREAT OFFERS Nature View Parking Area Pets Allowed (damage deposit required) Spacious 500 sqft indoor living space. Kitchenette with all you need. Solar-powered fridge and freezer. 13’ high ceilings with a skylight for stargazing. Cozy hanging bamboo light fixtures. Plenty of power outlets. Comfy queen-size bed and pull-out couch. Wood-burning stove. Dining area for 4. Huge viewing window. Bathroom with a composting toilet. A big 1000 sqft deck. Relax with comfy patio furniture and watch wildlife. Outdoor dining for 4. Sail shade for sun or rain. Wood-burning hot tub. Lovely evening lights. Cozy fire pit. Full size BBQ for your cookouts. Refreshing outdoor shower. Guest access Access to BBQ grill & cozy fire pit on the outdoor deck. OTHER THINGS TO NOTE Only 1-2 pets are permitted during your stay at the Dome. Please note that Dome guests do not have access to Marmora Retreat's Farmhouse area, pool, and waterfront dock area. The hot tub may require up to 4 hours to reach optimal temperature, which can vary depending on the outdoor temperature. This year, we've encountered issues with wet wood, affecting our firewood supply. To ensure you have a cozy experience, we kindly request that all guests bring their own dry firewood. While we'll still offer firewood, we regret to inform you that we cannot guarantee its dryness. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Outdoor Fires - based around the Marmora township, all fire warnings are set at the time of your visit. All outdoor fires must be small, controlled and monitored at all times, they must also be put out with water before being left. Sound - after 10:00 pm there is a noise curfew, but even before that you must make sure you are respectful of other guests on the property who come to relax, as well as our neighbors in this quiet countryside region. In the event of any noise rule violations, such as loud music or disturbances after 10:00 PM, a $500 fee will be applied from the deposit. Power - we are on solar energy, embracing an eco-conscious lifestyle. Our off-grid setup ensures that your stay in the Dome is in harmony with nature. The water system operates on a pump-action system. Enjoy a sustainable, peaceful retreat, leaving a lighter impact on the environment during your stay.
from 
CA$275
 / night
100%
(46)

Simple Cabin in town

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Haliburton Village, ON
Open space, including kitchen, comfy bed, couch and wood stove. There is an outhouse and water is provided for drinking, wash up and rinsing (no running water) Basic cooking utensils, small fridge, hot plate, coffee press and kettle. The cabin is in town, there are neighbors and general sounds of town. - 2 min drive to Main street-shops, cafes, pub, lake access, ice skating - 5 min drive to cross country ski trails, snowshoe trails and a sculpture forest - 15 min drive to ski hill and water spa There is a cedar sauna on the property you are welcome to use during your stay. Along with a simple outdoor / off grid shower for rinsing. Parking is on the street in front of the cabin. Please keep tight to the right for the snowplow and neighbors to get by.
from 
CA$133
 / night
100%
(2)

Call of the Wild Hunt Camp

1 site ¡ Lodging5 acres ¡ Bancroft, ON
Apsley Ontario off the grid hunt camp! Welcome to our OFF THE GRID hunt camp in Apsley, Ontario, where adventure and relaxation meet! Our camp is nestled amidst the picturesque scenery of Eels Lake and surrounded by ATV trails that wind through the lush wilderness of Ontario. For those looking for an added level of excitement, we offer guided ATV tours through the stunning trail system. Our experienced guides will lead you through the safe spots, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience for all ages. But that's not all - our camp offers comfortable accommodations with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. With fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities just a stone's throw away, our camp is the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to assist you with any questions or requests you may have, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable stay. So, why not book your stay at our hunt camp in Apsley, Ontario today and experience the natural beauty and excitement of the great outdoors? 2 queen beds in the loft All appliances run off the grid on propane Furnace and wood stove Generator runs: microwave, kettle, coffee maker Full working shower with hot water on demand so you never run out of hot water :) Call or text 705 / 656 / 9555
from 
CA$130
 / night
98%
(57)

Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

3 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ Minden, ON
We have a beautiful, densely treed, and well-groomed 1-acre piece of property in desirable cottage country that's craving company! The mature trees, rolling terrain, and private road offer lots of privacy and a peaceful atmosphere.  It is within walking distance to the world-famous, Panam Summer Games host " The Minden White Water Preserve/Rapids", which is used for kayaking and hiking. Walking distance to a public beach on the desirable Horseshoe Lake, part of a 3 chain lake, where you can fish, swim and relax in clean, sparkling waters. Choose from two options. Beneath The Stars Tenting Escape - tent or RV(up to 25 feet) site with an outhouse Rustic Cozy Cabin - ideal for a family or group. Currently can sleep 6. We are in a very desirable location; only 10 minute drive to the village of Minden, and surrounded by natural beauty and activities for nature lovers!
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CA$60
 / night
95%
(76)

Foresthill Retreat

2 sites ¡ Lodging49 acres ¡ Harcourt, ON
This property used to be a farm until 1912, the glamping site is located far from the house in what used to be a vegetable garden!The glamping tent is well equipped and has everything you need for a cozy comfortable stay including electricity! The outdoor kitchen on site has everything you need to cook a delicious meal. There are also hammocks, an outdoor shower, tables and chairs, and an extremely well-stocked site super clean outhouse.We also have trails to hike and a few lakes just minutes away. General stores and gas within 5 minutes and the Grocery stores are within 15 minutes for all your camping needs.Provincial Parks Nearby: Wolf Island Provincial Park - 10 minutes, Kawartha Highlands Signature Park - 15 minutes, Quackenbush Provincial Park - 25 minutes, Petroglyphs Provincial Park - 30 minutesAt night you will hear nothing but frogs, very private and very romantic.We can't wait to host you at Foresthill Retreat!
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CA$100
 / night

Adventures with Rick

2 sites ¡ Tents8 acres ¡ Haliburton, ON
The property is 8 acres of pine and hardwood adjacent to beautiful clean lakes. Bordering the Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park, Kawartha Barrens, and endless crown land. Located two hours north of the G.T.A. There is an outdoor cook shack available with hot and cold running water. Communal fire pit site available near the pond. You can gather your own firewood from the woods surrounding the camp site. Quiet and peaceful.
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CA$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Glamping by Sandy Lake

1 site ¡ Lodging32 acres ¡ Lakehurst, ON
This unique space is steps up from camping. It is located on 32 acres of land with so much to explore and see. What used to be a sheep farm about a century ago is now a hobby farm with plenty of forested area and hiking trails to explore. The large glamping tent has a double futon bed and bunk bed. An indoor fire place, as well as a basic kitchenette with mini fridge, microwave, kettle and toaster. There is a porch and outside area with your own fire pit to enjoy and relax (fire wood included). - Like all camping, everything that is brought in must leave with the guest (there is no garbage disposal and for extensive stays we can provide a pass to the local dump) - There is no cleaning provided between guests (no cleaning charge applied), for this reason we ask that you leave the tent in great shape for the next guests arriving. Failure to do so will result in additional fees. - Dogs are welcomed and we can even provide a dog bed on request, but we ask that you pick up after your dog and keep the dog off the beds. If there are other guests in the main cottage exploring the grounds; we just ask that you have a dog leash handy. - You must bring all the essentials, including your cookware and cooking utensils (given the lack of running water) - Guest must bring their own linens/sleeping bags. Pillows and extra blankets are provided. - Guests are encouraged to bring plenty of drinking water, wipes, paper towels, toilet paper and etc. - Buckhorn which is about a 5 min drive away has all the essentials, including a Foodland supermarket, convenience store, LCBO, a few restaurants including take out pizza. - The odd time, the guests may encounter the host and family on the grounds doing maintenance.
from 
CA$60
 / night
85%
(30)

River Gettaway

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Minden Hills, ON
10 acres, land, partly cleared with grassy spots to camp. River frontage, access to river. Ample opportunity for canoeing down river and fishing It is right beside small falls, people enjoy swimming there Near Kinmount, Gooderham, 15 mins to Haliburton where you will find all of your camping needs. There are lots of lakes around the area, and opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and ATVing. It is primitive camping, so please bring whatever you need. There is one outhouse on site.
from 
CA$75
 / night
100%
(25)

Echo Shores

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acres ¡ Tory Hill, ON
Eels Lake is a lake located between the Kawartha lakes and Haliburton Highlands region of Ontario, Canada.Eel Cow, an Ojibwe chieftain, for which the lake is named, claimed this area and surrounding land as his family's hunting and fishing territory in the early 1800s.The many islands and bays found in the lake make for ideal smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and Rock bass habitat. The lake also has natural population of lake trout, walleye and yellow perch. In order to help preserve the natural lake trout population of Eels Lake, slot size and winter ice fishing restrictions are in place.Echo Shores is located in Unicorn Bay on Eels Lake in Highlands East.  The cottage stands on the Canadian Shield with beautiful views of crown land across the bay.  
from 
CA$200
 / night
100%
(1)

Rockhound heaven

1 site ¡ RV10 acres ¡ Haliburton, ON
This campsite is located within 15 minutes of hundreds of lakes, rivers and streams. In the heart of crystal collecting country, Rock and crystal collecting opportunities abound. For the fisherman, canoeist or kayaker, there are hundreds of nearby lakes and streams. For hikers and cyclists, there are many trails - including rail trails within a few minutes drive.
from 
CA$49.99
 / night

The best camping near Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

Kawartha Highlands is the second-largest provincial park in Ontario, filled with lakes both large and small. There is no car camping at the park, only paddle-in backcountry campsites. The park offers amazing opportunities for fishing, birding, and hunting in addition to swimming and, of course, paddling. Set about 2.5 hours’ drive from Toronto and one hour from Peterborough, Kawartha isn’t as famous as Algonquin Provincial ParkPark, but it is closer to the city and just as great an escape from civilization.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for families: The Bottle Lake access point provides you with several campsites within a day’s paddle to create a base camp for family trips.
  • Best for adrenaline lovers: The Mississauga River offers manageable whitewater paddling (although most rapids can be avoided using portages) and rugged scenery.
  • Best for classic park views: The Serpentine Loop is a favourite among paddlers for its remote wilderness, island campsites, and stunning waterfall. However, doing the full loop involves a 1,500-metre portage.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Campsites can be booked online or by phone through Ontario Parks.
  2. The park has nine access points for starting your journey. Choosing a point that’s a bit farther to drive to will likely mean fewer campsites are booked up.
  3. If you’re new to canoe tripping, choose campsites that aren’t too far apart. A change in wind direction can slow you down and make your destination hard to reach before dark.
  4. If your preferred route is booked up, try a different access point and route. It’s a big park with plenty of alternatives.

When to go

Although it’s open all year, things get icy over winter, when paddling isn’t possible on most of the smaller lakes. However, for experienced paddlers and backcountry campers, visiting in November or even early December will provide incredible solitude. Visiting during October is popular (but not as crowded as summer) because of the fall colours, bug-free environment, and generally cool but tolerable temperatures.

Know before you go

  • Many of the accessible lakes are lined with privately owned cottages. Paddlers should respect private property and expect to share the water with cottagers’ power boats.
  • The park has very limited facilities, but campsites generally have a picnic table, fire ring, and box privy. Most campsites have at least three tent pads.
  • You’ll need to print out an interior camping permit at home within 14 days of your booking and bring it along, or pick one up in person at the park office in Bancroft, Ontario.
  • Several local outfitters offer equipment rentals and canoe route maps. You can also purchase maps online to help with planning and booking your route.

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