Private sites camping near Kawartha Lakes

With so much shoreline to choose from, Kawartha Lakes is a waterfront camper’s paradise.

99% (159 reviews)

Canada
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Ontario
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Kawartha Lakes

99% (159 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kawartha Lakes

Camper favorites near Kawartha Lakes

Stories from the community

Wide angle view of the large 1 acre nature oasis.

Weekend Trip to Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

Love the campground, close from a lot of beaches and trails. Will come back :)

Weekend Trip to Rugby House Retreat

We loved the place, It was super clean. Plenty of room to go around. Really appreciated the water from Well, Stove and Some Cuban coffee. Overall our stay was wonderful.

2 nights at Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

Rustic is right, the inside of the cabin is like a nostalgic time capsule! It was warm and cozy, we watched a vhs before bed. I didn't see a photo but there is a mini fridge inside which was great. The land is quite private, no neighbors visible from the yard but you will have people walking, riding or driving the road in front fairly regularly. The whole property inside & out was spotless and thoughtfully prepared. Vanessa was friendly, attentive and readily available for the questions we did have. No trouble parking and easy to get to 10 or so minutes from town. The only downsides we had: The cabin sits on a hill side so the frontage is quite slanted, tough for outdoor games, slippery when wet. We did find two spots flat enough for small tents. The bbq is fickle, it works but we thought we'd run out propane with half a tank left. The outhouse- is an outhouse of course, I've seen worse for sure. Some kind of light inside would be a great addition. Overall had a great time, highly recommended for anyone looking for a step above camping but still well in nature.

Weekend Trip to The Hemlock Hideaway

Loved the entire layout of Kelly’s campsites, we chose the site with the platform and the structure for tarps was incredible. It was an awesome trip and communicating with Kelly was extremely easy. She made sure we were comfortable and settled. Like everywhere else in Ontario there are tics and we had a few sightings. If you go to this beautiful site make sure you have your repellent and tic key!

zehra

1 week ago

2 nights at Spirit Ridge Acres

My spouse and I had an amazing and unforgettable two days. The location was perfect — right in the forest, yet so close to the city center. It’s definitely a must-visit for nature lovers. Everything in the cottage was thoughtfully prepared and very clean. Angie and Arnold were truly wonderful hosts. They checked in to see if we needed anything and were always happy to help. Thank you so much — we feel lucky to have met such kind people. We definitely want to come back again!

Carina

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Spirit Ridge Acres

As always, we had the most amazing time spent at the Forest Chalet. So peaceful and Angie and Arnold continue to treat us like family. We will be back many more times.

Julie

2 weeks ago

1 night at Honey Hideaway

It was a perfect getaway. The A-frame is a cross between camping and upscale cottaging! Very beautiful evening under the lights, strung in the trees. We were able to have a beautiful barbecued dinner, and afterwards we went for an evening dip in the pool as we were currently under a heat advisory. We still took in the hot tub, because nothing like a dip in the pool afterwards. I think the highlight was getting to know the two family dogs! Beautiful walk in the morning to the lake. We took home fresh eggs and honey! We will absolutely be back it was an a wonderful experience. The hosts Ann and Brian are incredible and couldn’t be more welcoming and kind people.

Weekend Trip to Cottingham property

The host was extremely friendly and easy to talk with. I brought my 6 and 3 year old boys and they were kind to them. The campsite was secluded and well maintained. The host brought us back to the site and made sure everything was all good and didn't require anything. They offered further help if required.

2 nights at Sparrow Lake Camp

This was our favourite site of the two we tried out at Brendan’s. This site had a larger platform (larger gaps too for tent deck anchors) so we had an easier time setting up our tent and had access to picnic table. This site also has a well groomed trail back to the bathroom/showers. Brendan and the other camp staff we interacted with were all friendly and welcoming. Great site for someone who wants a back country site feel with access to amenities.

3 nights at Sparrow Lake Camp

Stayed at Cranberry. Fantastic site, private enough to feel remote but close enough to watch all the lake activity. Nice swim spot too. GUESTS — please pack out your garbage and stop burning it or tossing it in the box privy. Leave the campsite clean and enjoyable for the next guests. Other than that, the proprietors themselves were communicative and friendly. Great bonus to have a canoe during the length of my stay. Would come again!

1 night at Sparrow Lake Camp

Lovely paddle in site on a quieter section of the lake. There was also a footpath (would not recommend carrying items in this way) that we used to access the bathrooms/showers. Brendan and the other staff at the camp base were all lovely and super friendly. The platform at this site (size and gaps between planks) was a bit trickier to setup on so we used a combination of pegs/ rocks to tie down.

2 nights at Wildwood Cottages

I loved the stay at the bunkie. Everything was perfect. The fireflies were amazing at night as well. Thank you for the stay

Tetiana

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Honey Hideaway

We had a wonderful time at our Cabana de Amor! The house and area were clean, well-maintained, and perfectly set up for a comfortable and relaxing stay. We appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the convenient layout. The hosts, and even their dogs were friendly. 😃 It made our stay enjoyable. Thank you for providing such a welcoming space! Highly recommend this place!

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Lake Camp

We stayed at this site last weekend and overall had a great time, but it’s definitely best suited for more experienced camper/paddlers. The location is absolutely beautiful and extremely private. There was an event going on at the main camp but we couldn’t hear anything from our site. Check-in was casual, we were asked if we knew our site and then told to head left to the canoe beach, grab a canoe and park wherever. In hindsight, we definitely should have asked more questions, as there were no directions given past that point. I ended up using my phone to navigate and we eventually found our way to Duck Bay. It was about a 20 minute paddle one way and a bit of a guessing game at first, but doable. The site has a red Hipcamp logo on a tree. The site itself is very spacious, with a long wooden bench we used as a makeshift table, and a wooden platform for a tent. (Ours was too long so we set up elsewhere). There was lots of firewood provided ready at the site. The pit toilet was a bit difficult to access, likely due to fallen branches from the ice storm. There was no clear path to it. There was loud music coming from a cottage across the lake both evenings, which took away from the otherwise peaceful setting. Nothing you can do about that though. Overall, it’s a great spot if you’re looking for a unique spot with lots of privacy. Just make sure to ask questions when you arrive, and only book if you have some portaging and paddling experience.

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Lake Camp

Great people, accommodating, very private, great fishing, great time!

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Lake Camp

Second time at the Cranberry lakeside site. We absolutely love it here to kick off summer. We appreciate being able to use the canoes instead of the hike with all of our things. Gorgeous views, and a huge camp site to spread out in. We always see wildlife, over 40 types of birds to listen to. Thank you for delivering firewood to us. See you next year!

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hemlock Hideaway

Had a great time in a great place. Off the hop was welcomed and customer service was well above 5 star. Would highly recommend staying the hemlock hideaway for any reason. We had a great time, and planning a return trip as soon as possible. Was so surprised at level of excellence in customer service, if you plan to camp out and want an authentic experience in true camping I would suggest taking the trip to visit Kelly in the hemlock hideaway. It's was greatest experience in camping I have found. It's glamping but not it was perfect experience that I will remember for ever. Words could not do it justice, it an experience one must have. Owners definitely went above and beyond every expectation.

Christian

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Wildwood Cottages

What a great spot for a getaway! We stayed in a bunkie in Wildwood Cottages and it was so comfortable. Great amenities to make you feel comfortable and some great water equipment to enjoy a paddle or swim out on the water. Would definitely recommend!

Doreina

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Honey Hideaway

I had an excellent time at Villa La Vida Loca. The hosts were incredibly warm, attentive, and genuinely caring. They went out of their way to ensure I was comfortable throughout my stay. The food was absolutely amazing. The brisket was outstanding, and the brisket pizza was unforgettable – easily one of the best meals I have had in a long time. Oh and the butter tarts, AMAZING! The cabin itself was cozy and inviting, with a great atmosphere that made it easy to relax. There was plenty of firewood available, which added to the comfort and charm of the stay. Overall, Villa La Vida Loca was a fantastic experience, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great getaway.

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Lake Camp

As always this is a fantastic spot to camp and fish. The canoes and easy access are a huge plus as is being able to boat across the lake for ice cream. Highly recommended! This is my third year camping and I will be back again!

9 top campgrounds near Kawartha Lakes

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(222)

Honey Hideaway

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

99%

(116)

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.

94%

(74)

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 your company! The mature trees, corner lot and private road offer seclusion, tranquility and peaceful atmosphere. The terrain is steep and hilly; however there are flatter areas to pitch a tent or level a trailer. The site boasts serenity as it remains untouched to significant changes to honor its original beauty and encourage its sustainability. 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. Our oasis welcomes you! 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 5 adults comfortably, or 6 with small children. 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!

96%

(71)

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.

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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. 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.

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!

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Camp Rose Island

5 sites · Lodging95 acres · Coe Hill, ON

Welcome to Camp Rose Island! Re-opening Canada Day Weekend 2025! We are 95acres of gorgeous natural land with a private lake! Featuring luxurious Rooftop Tents by Cascadia Vehicle Tents! Each site offers a brand new Rooftop Tent (RTT) with queen size memory foam mattress, perched above an indoor/outdoor structure with camp stove and dining area - all fully screened, with more space for tents on each site too! Each site also has its own dedicated outhouse and fire pit! Additionally, 3/4 of the sites offer a lower level “annex” of the RTT, which can fit up to a double bed, or simply be used as a changing area - it’s also a great place for your pets at night, directly below the sleeping quarters above, or as a cozy place to hang out during inclement weather. With only 4 sites to rent across the entire property you are guaranteed peace and tranquility. Guests enjoy access to the private lake on the property, as well as canoes and a floating raft, and the beautiful winding trail throughout the land. There’s really nothing like this unique experience!

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Wildwood Cottages

2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Peterborough, ON

Wildwood Cottage sits on 6.5 acres overlooking Otonabee River. In the spring summer and fall we have 6 cottages and 2 bunkies. November to April we keep 3 cottages open with hot tubs and wood burning fireplaces. You can watch the birds off your porch, go for a swim at the beach, use a complementary canoe or even rent a boat or seadoo to explore farther! In the summer months we offer a swimming area equipped with kayaks and water inflatables. In the winter, there is a skating rink when the weather permits! Generally Jan & Feb. Dec and Mar the weather sometimes is not cold enough. One of the best things to do any season - sit at your own fire pit and enjoy the clear sky full of stars while listening to the sounds of natures. We are also pet friendly!

100%

(6)

Island Spirits

18 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Peterborough, ON

Are you looking to get out of the concrete jungle and away from the noise of the city? Once you board our special all included ferry SPIRIT OF THE LOON, to the 25 acre private island …your adventure starts! Oh, look the loon with her baby on her back! Oh the great Canadian echo of the loon call! Do you want to daze at the most beautiful, starry nights, cohabitate with many different species of 80 + farm animals on the island? From elusive alpacas to piglets, peacocks, baby goats, mini horse and donkeys and experience picking your own fresh farm organic eggs for your breakfast! Brushing and feeding the animals and taking them for a walk! We have 8 solar eco cabins and 25 tenting sites privately situated around the entire island. Have all night campfires and zen while watching the sunrise or the sunset as it dances and shimmers off the lake. Or how about experience using our double sided wood fired famous stone pizza oven it’ll be the best pizza you’ve ever made. We have sand volleyball and badminton courts, and a fleet of canoes, kayaks and paddle boards all included . If you enjoy fishing or want to catch a whopper the special fishing barge THE GOLDEN GAL awaits you ! Life is a beach, we have a small beach for your sand fun ! Book today for this upcoming season as you may hit the day that a baby goat is born! Please make sure you understand my pricing. If you have any questions, please let me know because I price out differently than any other place. Obviously, you see all amenities are all included. So , for example , 2 people would be $135/ stay ( which consist of one two or three nights is all the same price for the 2 persons ) . You can put up as many tents / dining tents , as you desire, Each site comes with a picnic table and a private campfire pit. I accommodate small, romantic couples, families , and large groups . I have special large group camping areas also. Awesome ! Captain TJ

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private sites camping near Kawartha Lakes guide

Overview

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, Hipcamp has got you covered. With over 150 private sites in the area, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're into snow sports, fall fun, or wind sports, there's something for everyone. And don't worry about facilities - popular ones like pets, toilets, and potable water are readily available. Looking for top campsites? Check out Cedar Creek Forest Camping (126 reviews), Laurenwood Farm (52 reviews), and Heartwood Farm & Cidery (37 reviews) for tried and true options. Prices range from as low as $20 per night to an average of $65 per night, making it accessible for all budgets. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable camping experience!