Discover the best forest campgrounds near Kawartha Lakes, Ontario with campfires

Canada
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Ontario
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Kawartha Lakes

95% (437 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kawartha Lakes

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(60)

Sparrow Lake Camp

4 sites · Tents126 acres · Severn Bridge, ON

Sparrow Lake Camp is situated on the southernmost tip of the majestic Canadian Shield. The site is known to have been a campground for bands of the Huron people prior to the European intrusion. It is considered probable that Samuel de Champlain, the first European to explore Huronia, spent a night on this site in the 17th Century.In 1892, what would become the west side of the current property was sold by pioneer Captain Thomas Stanton to Toronto's renowned Massey family to act as their summer resort. The resort sported the main lodge, dining room, and cottages and was only accessible by train and steamer. From the onset, the Masseys used the site as a summer retreat for the Young Men's Bible League of the Central Methodist Church. Today, the property is a thriving summer camp that also offers overnight tent stays with stunning lake views.

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TheBack40

50 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Learn more about this land:Our 100-acre farmland property offers beautiful sunsets, lots of trails, and a creek running through it. We have 50 campsites for up to four guests each, and we’re located just 3 km north of Sturgeon Lake, providing a great base for exploring the Kawartha Lakes area and attractions such as Emily Provincial Park. Pets are not allowed – there are animals on the property. The property does not have potable water. Campfires are allowed. RVs up to 45 feet in length can be accommodated on a pull-through site. The grassy surface will require levelling. There are no hookups, and generators are not allowed. The town of Bobcaygeon is less than 10 minutes away, located where the river connects Sturgeon Lake to Pigeon Lake, the next lake over to the east. You can find restaurants, shops, and services here. Nearby attractions include Emily Provincial Park at the bottom of Pigeon Lake, and Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Indian Point Provincial Park, which both sit on Balsam Lake about 30 km to the northwest.

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Three Ponds Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Severn, ON

Nestled on the outskirts of Orillia, our serene 25-acre property and horse farm is minutes from Bass Lake and 15 minutes from local marinas. Our hidden gem homestead is the perfect place to disconnect. Trails to walk/hike, fields and forests to play in and the option for overnight pasture or stall horse board for our equine friends. You'll love the tranquility here. Follow us on IG at "Three.Ponds" for more pics, videos and info, including our Three Ponds Retreat dates!

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Cottingham property

2 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

43 acres of fields and forest. Beautiful star gazing opportunities and seclusion. Close to Doubes Tressle Bridge. Open area in a forest away from people and everything. No electricity or utilities available. We do live on the property and can assist with anything as necessary. Come enjoy the peace!

Saved 3 times

Thistle Dew Acres

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Our Farm is at the back to the land homestead with 50 acres of regenerative farm land, 10 acres of maple hardwood bush and 30 acres of mix woods with trails though out. We have a large pond where red wing black birds and turtles enjoy spending their time and 10 acres of pasture land where our goats run about. We have many great places to set up a tent or small RV

12 top forest campgrounds near Kawartha Lakes with campfires

Spirit Ridge Acres

2 sites · Lodging55 acres · Bobcaygeon, ON

We are a small hobby farm set within a mature forest setting. There are two, newly built tiny home bunkies that are situated in private areas of our property, yet close enough to our main house for security, Each bunkie has a modern outhouse with composting toilets and non potable water for washing Guests will have the opportunity to commune with nature as we have a multitude of bird species and there is always good possibilities of wildlife viewing, as guests stroll down the nature trails. There are plenty of very cool areas along the trail where guests are able to participate in forest bathing/meditation or can just relax and listen to the wind rustling through the leaves of the trees. We have a couple of very gentle horses on our farm, that if anyone wishes, can schedule a time meet them and do some therapy grooming. There is also a small flock of egg laying hens that are quite social. Pets are permitted but must be on leash at all times as we have a dog as well livestock on site as well as a multitude of wild animals such as skunks, porcupines and other critters that travel through the forest. We have a small on site store, which has some beautiful wood crafts that are created in our woodworking shop. Live-edge wood tables/charcuterie boards and other beautiful pieces as well as a large display of gorgeous healing crystals and metaphysical items are available for purchase if that's your interest. We are less than a 10 minute drive to Bobcaygeon, where you can find the world famous Kawartha Dairy, scrumptious restaurants, specialty clothing boutiques, grocery stores and pharmacies. Sturgeon Lake is the predominate lake with fabulous fishing/boating/ swimming. A 20 minute drive will get you to Fenelon Falls, Buckhorn or Kinmount where you will find the famous Kinmount Movie Theater that have the latest movies available. The Canadian Rail Trail is also nearby for anyone that wants to do some biking/hiking.

Sparrow Lake Camp

4 sites · Tents126 acres · Severn Bridge, ON

Sparrow Lake Camp is situated on the southernmost tip of the majestic Canadian Shield. The site is known to have been a campground for bands of the Huron people prior to the European intrusion. It is considered probable that Samuel de Champlain, the first European to explore Huronia, spent a night on this site in the 17th Century.In 1892, what would become the west side of the current property was sold by pioneer Captain Thomas Stanton to Toronto's renowned Massey family to act as their summer resort. The resort sported the main lodge, dining room, and cottages and was only accessible by train and steamer. From the onset, the Masseys used the site as a summer retreat for the Young Men's Bible League of the Central Methodist Church. Today, the property is a thriving summer camp that also offers overnight tent stays with stunning lake views.

Log Bunkie and Tent Area

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Life here is laid back , relaxed and full of wildlife and our fur babies. Big Dog included. - We love to be outdoors , play guitar by the fire and eat good food with friends. Lots to do on the property. Canoes, kayaks, water sports welcome and lots of Hiking Fenlon Falls 15 min away.

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!

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(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.

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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.

Thistle Dew Acres

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Our Farm is at the back to the land homestead with 50 acres of regenerative farm land, 10 acres of maple hardwood bush and 30 acres of mix woods with trails though out. We have a large pond where red wing black birds and turtles enjoy spending their time and 10 acres of pasture land where our goats run about. We have many great places to set up a tent or small RV

40 Acre Woods at 29&1 Private Venue

1 site · Lodging50 acres · Severn, ON

Step into the serene embrace of the "40 Acre Woods," where tranquility and privacy await among winding trails and towering cedars. Our quaint cabin, complete with a wood stove and outdoor fire pit, offers a cozy retreat nestled in nature's embrace. Opt for the convenience of optional power and make use of our small private outhouse. Relax with a good book, explore the surrounding trails, or simply bask in the peace and quiet of your surroundings. The cabin features a main level with a comfortable couch, table, and fireplace, while the upper loft provides a cozy sleeping space. Outside, gather around the fire pit, sway in hammocks, and lounge in comfortable seating as you soak in the natural beauty. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and unwind in this idyllic setting, where time slows and nature's wonders take center stage.

A Quick Escape From The City

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Bolsover, ON

CAMP SITE The campsite is located on a lot nestled in trees approximately 1 hour from Toronto. LAKE Canal Lake is a lake of Ontario, Canada, situated in the City of Kawartha Lakes. HISTORIC MONUMENTS The "Hole in the Wall" bridge was built in 1905 and is also known as the Canal Lake Concrete Arch Bridge. It was designed by the federal Department of Railways and Canals. It is located on Centennial Park Road on the southwest side of the Trent Severn Waterway bridge, northeast of Bolsover. The bridge was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988. FISHING Canal Lake is a medium size lake with a large diversity of fishing spots. There is a variety of fish available including largemouth bass, pike and muskellunge (muskie) and an abundance of panfish. EATS AND TREATS • Bolsover is home to the Western Trent Golf Club • Check out Bexley Golf Centre just west of Coboconk & Balsam Lake Provincial Park. They are a Butter Tart Tour stop! • And we all know how delicious Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream is in the summer sun!

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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!

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.

TheBack40

50 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Learn more about this land:Our 100-acre farmland property offers beautiful sunsets, lots of trails, and a creek running through it. We have 50 campsites for up to four guests each, and we’re located just 3 km north of Sturgeon Lake, providing a great base for exploring the Kawartha Lakes area and attractions such as Emily Provincial Park. Pets are not allowed – there are animals on the property. The property does not have potable water. Campfires are allowed. RVs up to 45 feet in length can be accommodated on a pull-through site. The grassy surface will require levelling. There are no hookups, and generators are not allowed. The town of Bobcaygeon is less than 10 minutes away, located where the river connects Sturgeon Lake to Pigeon Lake, the next lake over to the east. You can find restaurants, shops, and services here. Nearby attractions include Emily Provincial Park at the bottom of Pigeon Lake, and Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Indian Point Provincial Park, which both sit on Balsam Lake about 30 km to the northwest.

Star Hosts in Kawartha Lakes

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Three Ponds Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Severn, ON

Nestled on the outskirts of Orillia, our serene 25-acre property and horse farm is minutes from Bass Lake and 15 minutes from local marinas. Our hidden gem homestead is the perfect place to disconnect. Trails to walk/hike, fields and forests to play in and the option for overnight pasture or stall horse board for our equine friends. You'll love the tranquility here. Follow us on IG at "Three.Ponds" for more pics, videos and info, including our Three Ponds Retreat dates!

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.

Sparrow Lake Camp

4 sites · Tents126 acres · Severn Bridge, ON

Sparrow Lake Camp is situated on the southernmost tip of the majestic Canadian Shield. The site is known to have been a campground for bands of the Huron people prior to the European intrusion. It is considered probable that Samuel de Champlain, the first European to explore Huronia, spent a night on this site in the 17th Century.In 1892, what would become the west side of the current property was sold by pioneer Captain Thomas Stanton to Toronto's renowned Massey family to act as their summer resort. The resort sported the main lodge, dining room, and cottages and was only accessible by train and steamer. From the onset, the Masseys used the site as a summer retreat for the Young Men's Bible League of the Central Methodist Church. Today, the property is a thriving summer camp that also offers overnight tent stays with stunning lake views.

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.

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!

Dog-friendly getaways

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(5)

Log Bunkie and Tent Area

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Life here is laid back , relaxed and full of wildlife and our fur babies. Big Dog included. - We love to be outdoors , play guitar by the fire and eat good food with friends. Lots to do on the property. Canoes, kayaks, water sports welcome and lots of Hiking Fenlon Falls 15 min away.

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.

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!

Spirit Ridge Acres

2 sites · Lodging55 acres · Bobcaygeon, ON

We are a small hobby farm set within a mature forest setting. There are two, newly built tiny home bunkies that are situated in private areas of our property, yet close enough to our main house for security, Each bunkie has a modern outhouse with composting toilets and non potable water for washing Guests will have the opportunity to commune with nature as we have a multitude of bird species and there is always good possibilities of wildlife viewing, as guests stroll down the nature trails. There are plenty of very cool areas along the trail where guests are able to participate in forest bathing/meditation or can just relax and listen to the wind rustling through the leaves of the trees. We have a couple of very gentle horses on our farm, that if anyone wishes, can schedule a time meet them and do some therapy grooming. There is also a small flock of egg laying hens that are quite social. Pets are permitted but must be on leash at all times as we have a dog as well livestock on site as well as a multitude of wild animals such as skunks, porcupines and other critters that travel through the forest. We have a small on site store, which has some beautiful wood crafts that are created in our woodworking shop. Live-edge wood tables/charcuterie boards and other beautiful pieces as well as a large display of gorgeous healing crystals and metaphysical items are available for purchase if that's your interest. We are less than a 10 minute drive to Bobcaygeon, where you can find the world famous Kawartha Dairy, scrumptious restaurants, specialty clothing boutiques, grocery stores and pharmacies. Sturgeon Lake is the predominate lake with fabulous fishing/boating/ swimming. A 20 minute drive will get you to Fenelon Falls, Buckhorn or Kinmount where you will find the famous Kinmount Movie Theater that have the latest movies available. The Canadian Rail Trail is also nearby for anyone that wants to do some biking/hiking.

Sparrow Lake Camp

4 sites · Tents126 acres · Severn Bridge, ON

Sparrow Lake Camp is situated on the southernmost tip of the majestic Canadian Shield. The site is known to have been a campground for bands of the Huron people prior to the European intrusion. It is considered probable that Samuel de Champlain, the first European to explore Huronia, spent a night on this site in the 17th Century.In 1892, what would become the west side of the current property was sold by pioneer Captain Thomas Stanton to Toronto's renowned Massey family to act as their summer resort. The resort sported the main lodge, dining room, and cottages and was only accessible by train and steamer. From the onset, the Masseys used the site as a summer retreat for the Young Men's Bible League of the Central Methodist Church. Today, the property is a thriving summer camp that also offers overnight tent stays with stunning lake views.

Forest camping near Kawartha Lakes with campfires guide

Overview

The Kawartha Lakes region features a series of long, thin lakes, many of them connected as part of the Trent-Severn Waterway. The area attracts anglers, paddlers, hikers, and campers from all around southern Ontario. Winter activities are also abundant, including skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Cycling has become a year-round activity too, thanks to “fat biking.” It’s a popular getaway for Torontonians—just a 90-minute drive from the city with lots of campgrounds to choose from, and just to the north is Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park.

Where to go

Near Peterborough

Peterborough is the largest city in the region and offers the most conveniences for campers who want to get supplies or indulge in a restaurant meal. Beavermead Campground is right on the edge of the city, but a short drive north provides lakeside options on Chemong Lake and Pigeon Lake. Many trailer parks also have cabins available for rent.

Near Fenelon Falls

The village of Fenelon Falls is one of those oh-so-charming places that visitors can’t resist. It sits between Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake, and offers access to the 85-kilometre Victoria Rail Trail, a multi-use trail open year round. Head north of town on Country Road 121 to find private campgrounds like Log Chateau Park and Fenelon Valley Trailer Park.

Near Bobcaygeon

Bobcaygeon is located on an island between Pigeon Lake and the north end of Sturgeon Lake. Campers in the area have a lot of choices, with campgrounds, trailer parks, resorts, and cottages all along the shorelines. Staying near Bobcaygeon puts you close to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park (an hour’s drive from town) if that’s your eventual destination.

When to go

Kawartha Lakes can be enjoyed year-round, although winter camping options will be limited because many private campgrounds are open only from May to October. However, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park stays open all year. Summer visits are best planned for midweek, since weekends are very busy. For peace and quiet, visit in early spring before fishing season opens and seasonal campers arrive.

Know before you go

Although trailer parks are abundant in the area, many of them book out most of their sites to customers for the whole season, leaving little availability for short-term campers.

Many area cottage “resorts” also have camping options. Don’t let the name fool you.
The Trent-Severn Waterway makes boating a common activity in the area. Paddlers should be prepared for traffic on the lakes and try to stay away from the main thoroughfares.
Hikers should grab a guide to the 500-kilometre Ganaraska Hiking Trail, which passes through the region.