Fall in Peterborough and the Kawarthas is nothing short of magical. As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, local hiking trails transform into some of the most scenic spots in Ontario. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk surrounded by nature, a family-friendly adventure, or a challenging trail with stunning lookouts, there’s a path here for everyone.

Here are some of the best hiking trails to enjoy in the fall.

1. Jackson Park (Peterborough)

One of Peterborough’s most beloved green spaces, Jackson Park is an oasis in the city. The trail system winds along Jackson Creek and connects to the Trans Canada Trail, giving hikers plenty of options.

Why it’s great in the fall:

• The canopy of sugar maples and oak trees puts on a spectacular autumn show.

• Easy, flat trails make it perfect for families, strollers, and casual walkers.

• The sound of the creek paired with the crisp fall air creates a peaceful escape without leaving the city.

2. Warsaw Caves Conservation Area (Douro-Dummer)

The Warsaw Caves are a must-see any time of year, but in the fall, the trails here are especially breathtaking. Explore 7 km of hiking paths that weave around caves, limestone cliffs, and the Indian River.

Why it’s great in the fall:

• Brilliant fall colors reflect off the limestone and water, making for stunning photos.

• Adventurous hikers can explore the caves or climb the rocky outcrops.

• Picnic areas make it a perfect day trip for families.

3. Harold Town Conservation Area (Peterborough)

Located just minutes from downtown Peterborough, Harold Town is known for its diverse trail system. It’s popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Why it’s great in the fall:

• Rolling hills and meadows glow with autumn colors.

• The lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

• Trails range from easy to moderate, giving you lots of options for your outing.

4. Ken Reid Conservation Area (Lindsay)

Just outside of Peterborough, near Lindsay, Ken Reid offers more than 10 km of hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and along the scenic shoreline of Sturgeon Lake.

Why it’s great in the fall:

• The marsh boardwalk is a highlight, surrounded by tall grasses and fall foliage.

• Great spot for birdwatching — migratory birds pass through during autumn.

• Family-friendly and well-marked trails make it accessible for all skill levels.

5. Petroglyphs Provincial Park (Woodview)

Known for its ancient Indigenous rock carvings, Petroglyphs is also home to the largest concentration of visible petroglyphs in Canada. The park features several hiking trails that truly shine in the fall.

Why it’s great in the fall:

• The forest surrounding the sacred carvings is rich with autumn colors.

• Trails like the Nanabush Trail (5.5 km) wind through rocky ridges and mixed forests.

• The peaceful setting makes it a reflective and inspiring fall hike.

Final Thoughts

The Peterborough and Kawarthas region is blessed with trails that come alive in the fall. Whether you’re exploring the caves at Warsaw, strolling Jackson Park’s leafy pathways, or taking in vineyard-like views at Harold Town, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy autumn outdoors.

So grab your hiking boots, a cozy sweater, and your camera — and get ready to experience the best fall hikes in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

Choosing the right place to retire is about more than just finding a home — it’s about lifestyle, community, and access to the services you need. If you’re considering retirement in Ontario, Peterborough offers a perfect combination of small-city charm, natural beauty, and practical amenities that make it an ideal choice for retirees.

1. Access to Excellent Healthcare

One of the top priorities in retirement is having reliable access to healthcare. Peterborough is home to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, a modern hospital and health care hub serving the region. In addition to the hospital, the city has a wide range of family doctors, specialists, and wellness clinics, ensuring peace of mind that quality care is always nearby.

2. Variety of Housing Options

Retirement living is all about comfort and convenience, and Peterborough has something for everyone:

• Condominiums apartments/townhouses: Ideal for retirees looking for low-maintenance living, with amenities like elevators, community rooms, and outdoor spaces.

• Waterfront or country homes: For those who want a peaceful, scenic lifestyle, there are plenty of options along rivers and lakes in the surrounding Kawartha region.

Whether you prefer a modern condo downtown or a quiet home near nature, Peterborough has choices that fit every retirement lifestyle.

3. Active Lifestyle Opportunities

Retirement in Peterborough doesn’t mean slowing down — it means enjoying life on your terms. The city is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and trails, perfect for walking, biking, boating, or fishing. Golf courses, community centers, and clubs make it easy to stay active, while cultural events, farmers’ markets, and local festivals provide entertainment year-round.

4. Vibrant Community & Small-City Charm

Peterborough combines a welcoming, close-knit community with all the conveniences of a small city. Residents enjoy:

• Walkable streets with cafes, shops, and restaurants.

• Cultural amenities like the Art Gallery of Peterborough, Showplace Performance Centre, and live theatre.

• Opportunities to connect with community organizations, volunteer groups, and social clubs.

This mix of social engagement and small-town friendliness makes it easy to build a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

5. Proximity to Major Cities Without the Crowds

Peterborough is just over an hour from Toronto, making day trips or visits to the city easy. At the same time, retirees can enjoy the peace and affordability of smaller-city living, without the traffic, high prices, or congestion of larger urban areas.

Final Thoughts

Retirement is about choosing a lifestyle that balances comfort, community, and convenience. With its excellent healthcare, diverse housing options, recreational opportunities, and welcoming atmosphere, Peterborough offers everything retirees need to enjoy their next chapter to the fullest.

If you’re considering retiring in Peterborough, I’d be happy to help you explore housing options that match your lifestyle and retirement goals.

Contact me today to start your journey to a worry-free, vibrant retirement in Peterborough!

Nestled in the heart of Lakefield, Ontario, Performing Arts Lakefield (PAL) is a long-standing gem in the region’s arts scene. This not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization has been curating inspiring performances since 1981, maintaining its reputation for presenting world-class entertainment spanning jazz, classical, blues, folk, and more

A Collective Celebration of Talent

Without reliance on public funding, PAL thrives through member subscriptions, private donations, and sponsorships. This commitment ensures their ability to continually bring high-quality performances to their community .

All concerts take place at the intimate and charming Lakefield United Church (47 Regent St.), complete with a consistent format: doors open at 2 p.m., and shows begin at 3 p.m. every Sunday.

What’s in Store: The 2025–2026 Lineup

PAL’s upcoming season promises a richly varied line-up to entertain and inspire audiences:

• The Dreamboats – October 5, 2025
  A Canadian quartet that revives original 1950s and ’60s rock ’n’ roll with energetic flair and nostalgic charm Performing Arts Lakefield+1.

• Tiller’s Folly – November 9, 2025
  Hailing from the West Coast, this Celtic-acoustic roots band weaves tales from the British Isles and Pacific Northwest into a modern, heartfelt musical tapestry.

• Michael Harrison – January 18, 2026
  An award-winning ventriloquist and puppeteer from Victoria, BC, known for his inventive “Ventastic” show—a magical blend of skill, humor, and original puppetry.

• Ladom Ensemble – February 22, 2026
  A four-piece acoustic fusion ensemble drawing from jazz, tango, klezmer, rock, classical Persian, and East Coast traditional music. Known for their improvisational bravery and cross-genre explorations.

• The Happy Pals New Orleans Party Orchestra – April 19, 2026
  Toronto-based ensemble delivering classic 1920s–30s New Orleans jazz and blues with an authentic lineup including trumpet, clarinet, banjo, and more.

Tickets & Access

• Adult Season Subscription: $160

• Student Season Subscription: $50

• Individual Tickets: $40 for adults, $15 for students.

Tickets are available online—with volunteer support and pickup instructions sent via email—and in person at Happenstance Books & Yarns in Lakefield.

Why This Season Is a Must-Attend

• Eclectic Mix: From nostalgic rock to ventriloquist whimsy and global acoustic fusion—there’s something for every musical taste.

• Community-Centered Venue: The cozy Lakefield United Church offers an inviting, local atmosphere ideal for intimate concerts.

• Access and Inclusivity: Affordable pricing and easy ticket access make this an especially welcoming arts experience for students and adults alike.

• Support Local Art: Taking part in PAL’s season means supporting a grassroots organization that values both its community and its artists.

Final Thoughts

Performing Arts Lakefield’s 2025–2026 season packs a powerful punch—blending high energy, emotion, artistry, and whimsy across five unique performances. Whether you're a lifelong Arts Lakefield supporter or new to the scene, this lineup is your invitation to Sunday afternoon enchantments and musical journeys.

Peterborough County Tourism and Communications has launched an exciting new tool that’s set to transform the way locals, visitors, and seasonal residents experience The Kawarthas. The Interactive Visitor Map, now live at thekawarthas.ca/map, offers a modern, easy-to-use way to explore everything the region has to offer—from outdoor adventures to cultural gems.

A New Way to Navigate The Kawarthas

Gone are the days of flipping through a static paper map and wondering what might have changed. This digital map highlights essentials like:

• 🚻 Public washrooms

• ⚡ EV charging stations

• 🚤 Boat launches

But it doesn’t stop there. Users can also uncover attractions, accommodations, cultural experiences, and natural destinations across the County’s eight townships and two First Nations. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full vacation itinerary, the map allows you to search, filter, and build personalized trip plans on both desktop and mobile.

“Printed maps will always hold a place in the hearts of many visitors,” said Tracie Bertrand, General Manager of Tourism and Communications. “But this new digital map is an innovative tool that positions Peterborough County, ‘The Kawarthas’, as a leader in visitor experience.”

Designed for Flexibility and Inspiration

Developed in partnership with the County’s GIS department, the map takes exploration to the next level with interactive layers. Visitors can browse:

• Historic sites

• Farmers’ markets

• Trent-Severn Waterway locks

• Conservation areas

• Beaches

And because it’s digital, the map can be instantly updated to reflect seasonal events, new attractions, or changes to amenities—something traditional maps can’t offer.

“At Peterborough County, the visitor experience is at the heart of everything we do,” said Warden Bonnie Clark. “Whether someone is visiting for the first time, returning for the season, or exploring their own backyard, we want them to feel inspired, informed, and connected to all that The Kawarthas has to offer. The new interactive visitor map is a game-changer; it puts the needs of our visitors front and center while highlighting the individuality of each township and showing how together they create a truly unforgettable destination.”

Strengthening The Kawarthas’ Tourism Future

This project is part of a broader tourism and economic development strategy that began in January 2025, when Peterborough County brought these services in-house. The ultimate goal? To strengthen The Kawarthas’ reputation as one of Ontario’s top tourism regions and to make every visit—whether for a day, a season, or a lifetime—more memorable and seamless.

Ready to Explore?

The Interactive Visitor Map is available now and ready to help you plan your perfect adventure. Whether you’re searching for a quiet conservation area, a vibrant farmers’ market, or the best launch spot for your next boating trip, the answers are only a click away.

👉 Start exploring today at thekawarthas.ca/map.

Fall in the Kawarthas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Buckhorn Berry Farm’s PumpkinFest! This long-standing local tradition is more than just picking out the perfect pumpkin—it’s a full day of family fun, seasonal treats, and festive activities.

🍂 Dates & Times

PumpkinFest 2025 runs on all four weekends in October:

• October 4–5

• October 11–12

• October 18–19

• October 25–26

📍 Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM.
❌ Closed weekdays (except for school tours).
🍂 Closed Thanksgiving Monday so the farm team can enjoy time with their families.

🎟️ Admission & Pricing

• Children (ages 2–12): $13.49 + tax

• Adults: $14.49 + tax

• Family of 4: $53.98 + tax

• Under 24 months: Free
  (Pumpkins are sold separately, priced by size.)

🌽 What’s Included in Your Ticket

Your admission gets you access to a full lineup of fall fun, including:

• Live entertainment by Tim Holland, the stunt ventriloquist, with shows at 1 PM & 3 PM daily

• A straw bale maze and two corn mazes (one with a spooky twist!)

• Pumpkin cannon shows

• Wagon rides to the pumpkin patch

• Pumpkin bowling 🎳

• Bouncy castle

• Huge sandbox play area and obstacle course

• Haunted Hallway and Haunted Forest

• The spooky Bonesville Cemetery

Plus, lots of cozy shelters, picnic tables, and rest areas to relax between activities.

👩‍🏫 School Tours

During the week, Buckhorn Berry Farm offers school group tours that include:

• An educational talk about the pumpkin life cycle

• Wagon rides

• Time in the pumpkin patch

• A chance to see the pumpkin cannon in action

🎒 Cost: $10.99 per student/parent, with teachers & staff free.

🎉 Birthday Parties at the Farm

Looking for a unique fall birthday spot? The farm offers reserved shelters for 2-hour blocks (11–1, 1–3, or 3–5). Perfect for cake, gifts, and a cozy gathering in between all the PumpkinFest fun. Reservations are free of charge but must be booked ahead of time.

🛍️ Food & Extras

• Browse the farm store for homemade goodies and fall décor.

• Grab a bite at the on-site food truck serving seasonal favorites.

• Note: Pets are not allowed (service animals welcome).

📍 Location

Buckhorn Berry Farm
3055 Berrie Road, Lakefield, Ontario

🍁 Why PumpkinFest at Buckhorn is a Must-Do This Fall

• A true Kawarthas tradition—families have been coming here for decades.

• Packed with activities for all ages—from little ones to adults.

• Spooky fun + cozy fall charm rolled into one.

• Expanded shelters and picnic spaces in 2025 make it easier than ever to enjoy a full day on the farm.

👉 Mark your calendars now, grab your cozy sweaters, and get ready for a day of festive fall fun at Buckhorn Berry Farm’s PumpkinFest 2025!

If you’re looking for a stunning way to experience Ontario’s natural beauty and rich history, the Trent-Severn Waterway should be at the top of your list. Stretching over 386 kilometers, this historic canal system connects Lake Ontario at Trenton to Georgian Bay on Lake Huron, weaving through charming towns, scenic lakes, and picturesque rivers. Whether you’re an avid boater, history buff, or nature lover, the Trent-Severn Waterway offers a unique adventure you won’t forget.

What Is the Trent-Severn Waterway?

The Trent-Severn Waterway is a series of interconnected lakes, rivers, and man-made locks built between the 1830s and 1920s. Originally designed to create a navigable route for commercial shipping and to help protect Canadian interests, today it serves primarily recreational boating and tourism.

Highlights Along the Waterway

• Locks and Engineering Marvels: The Trent-Severn features 44 locks, including the famous Peterborough Lift Lock — one of the highest hydraulic lift locks in the world. Watching boats be raised or lowered here is a fascinating spectacle.

• Stunning Scenery: From peaceful forested shorelines to vibrant waterfront towns like Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, and Orillia, the waterway is a showcase of Ontario’s diverse landscapes.

• Wildlife and Nature: Kayakers and anglers enjoy the abundant wildlife, including loons, herons, and bass, amid calm waters and hidden coves perfect for exploration.

• Cultural and Historical Attractions: Along the way, you’ll find museums, heritage sites, artisan shops, and festivals that celebrate the region’s rich past and lively present.

Tips for Visitors to the Trent-Severn Waterway

1. Book Lock Passes and Boat Rentals Early: The boating season is popular, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Reserving your lock passes and boat rentals ahead of time ensures a smooth trip.

2. Check Lock Schedules: Some locks operate on specific hours or may close for maintenance during the season. Plan your daily routes accordingly.

3. Pack for the Outdoors: Bring sun protection, insect repellent, and layered clothing. Weather on the water can change quickly.

4. Respect the Environment: The Trent-Severn runs through sensitive ecosystems. Use eco-friendly products, dispose of waste properly, and follow local boating regulations.

5. Explore the Towns: Don’t just pass through — take time to visit local shops, galleries, and community events in the quaint towns along the way.

6. Stay Safe: Always wear life jackets, be mindful of weather warnings, and keep communication devices handy.

Local Dining Along the Trent-Severn Waterway

• Bobcaygeon:
  The Bobcaygeon Inn offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with classic Canadian dishes and pub favorites. Enjoy their fresh lake fish specials and hearty meals after a day exploring the waterway.

• Fenelon Falls:
  Murphy’s Lockside Pub & Patio is a cozy spot right by the water, serving classic pub fare, fresh fish, and hearty sandwiches. Its friendly atmosphere and lockside views make it a perfect place to relax while watching boats pass through.

• Peterborough:
  Silver Bean Café is a beloved local spot known for its artisanal coffee, fresh baked goods, and light lunches — perfect for a relaxing break during your travels. For a unique dining experience, St. Veronus offers a contemporary menu blending local ingredients with creative flair, ideal for an evening meal after exploring the waterway.

• Young's Point: 
   Lock 27 Bar and Grill in Young’s Point offers lakeside dining with a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu featuring hearty comfort food and fresh seafood — a perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water. 

The Trent-Severn Waterway is a gem of Ontario — a place where nature, history, and adventure meet. Whether you’re passing through on a boat or spending a weekend exploring, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the heart of the Kawarthas and beyond. Plan your trip, enjoy the local flavors, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking for a new outdoor activity that’s fun, accessible, and surprisingly addictive? Let us introduce you to one of the Kawarthas’ fastest-growing recreational sports—disc golf. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned thrower, disc golf is an easy way to enjoy nature, get some exercise, and challenge yourself (or your friends) in a laid-back setting.

What Is Disc Golf?

Disc golf is a sport where players throw flying discs (similar to Frisbees) toward a metal basket, aiming to complete each hole in the fewest throws possible. Think of it like traditional golf—but without the clubs, high costs, or intimidating dress code. You don’t need a membership or a caddy. All you need is a disc and a bit of curiosity.

Why Disc Golf?

• It’s free (mostly!) – Most courses are open to the public at no cost.

• Low barrier to entry – You can start with just one disc and learn as you go.

• All ages welcome – It’s great for kids, adults, seniors, and everyone in between.

• Good for your health – You’ll walk, stretch, and focus, all while enjoying fresh air.

• Social and relaxing – Whether you go solo or with friends, disc golf is casual, fun, and community-oriented.

Top Disc Golf Courses in Peterborough & The Kawarthas

🌳 Riverview Park (Peterborough)

Located right along the Otonabee River, Riverview Park is the most well-known disc golf course in Peterborough. With a full 18 holes, scenic views, and a mix of wooded and open fairways, it’s a favorite among local players.

• Cost: Free

• Skill Level: All levels

• Bonus: Great place to bring a picnic or relax after your round!

🌲 Otonabee Disc Golf @ Escape Maze

Looking for a more adventurous course? Head just outside the city to Escape Maze, where their Otonabee Disc Golf Course offers a more technical, forested layout with hilly terrain. This is a paid course that delivers a great experience in a beautifully maintained environment.

• Cost: Approx. $10/day

• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Bonus: You can pair your disc golf round with other Escape Maze activities like scavenger hunts or escape rooms!

🏫 TASS (Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School)

TASS has a casual 9-hole course located on school grounds—perfect for beginners and families looking to give disc golf a try. It’s not as polished as other locations, but still a fun, low-pressure place to play.

• Cost: Free

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Bonus: Great for a quick after-school or weekend round.

🏞 TASS Public Park Course

Adjacent to the high school, this smaller public park course features concrete tees and a short, 8-hole layout that’s perfect for practicing throws or introducing new players to the game.

• Cost: Free

• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

📚 Hamilton Park Disc Golf Course

This lesser-known 9-hole course was established in 2015 and is ideal for those looking for a casual, quieter spot to play. While it’s basic, it still delivers fun rounds with minimal crowds.

• Cost: Free

• Skill Level: Beginner

🌲 Viamede Resort (Near Stoney Lake)

Up for a scenic day trip? Head to Viamede Resort, where the Peterborough Disc Golf Club has helped build an 18-hole forested course. It’s rustic, peaceful, and a great addition to a weekend getaway in the Kawarthas.

• Cost: Likely for resort guests or a small fee—call ahead to confirm

• Skill Level: Intermediate

• Bonus: Play disc golf, then hit the water or enjoy a gourmet meal on site!

Community Connection: Peterborough Disc Golf Club

If you want to get more involved, consider joining the Peterborough Disc Golf Club (PDGC). They run regular events like:

• Tuesday Night League (summer)

• Discy Chicks – a women’s disc golf group

• Winter Diehard League – for the brave and bundled!

• Tournaments and community events

The PDGC is open to players of all levels and is a fantastic way to meet new people, improve your game, and support local disc golf development.

👉 Learn more: peterboroughdiscgolf.ca

Final Thoughts: Give It a Throw!

Disc golf is growing in Peterborough and the Kawarthas—and for good reason. It’s active, inclusive, and a ton of fun. Whether you're walking the trails at Riverview Park or taking on the technical layout at Escape Maze, you're bound to fall in love with the sport.

So grab a disc, bring a friend, and get ready to enjoy one of the region’s best-kept outdoor secrets.

Have a favorite disc golf spot we missed? Let us know—we’d love to feature it!

#PeterboroughDiscGolf #KawarthasOutdoors #SupportLocal #TrySomethingNew #ActiveLiving #DiscGolfLife #PeterboroughRecreation

With summer in full swing, consider this your invitation to a memorable outdoor experience: McLean Berry Farm, just outside Buckhorn, Ontario. This beloved family-run farm delivers fresh produce, local charm, and seasonal fun for visitors of all ages.

A Legacy Rooted in Family & Farming

Established in 1991 by Sam and Jane McLean, the farm spans nearly 100 acres and is nestled among apple trees and blueberry bushes. Their journey began by reviving an old homestead and adding strawberries to the mix—a tradition that continues today. By 2010, the next generation expanded operations with a second location, Buckhorn Berry Farm, now home to most of their strawberry and raspberry crops.

What’s in Season & What to Expect

From mid‑June through October, visitors can enjoy:

• Pick-Your-Own (PYO) strawberries, raspberries, peas, beans, blueberries, and more

• Pre-picked produce at both farm stores and local farmers’ markets.

• A wide selection of seasonal veggies including sweet corn, tomatoes, and pumpkins

• Homemade maple syrup, jams, and preserves crafted on-site

The farm uses modern practices like trickle irrigation, high tunnels, and day-neutral strawberries to deliver fresh produce across the season and maximize quality and flavor. 

A Visitor-Friendly Experience

Expect friendly, knowledgeable staff, clean facilities, and a relaxed country setting. If you’re planning a family outing, you’ll want to budget time for berry picking—and the irresistible home-baked goods waiting at the farm store. Their jams and preserves often get rave reviews. 

Seasonal Highlights & Events

Beyond daily picking and farm shopping, McLean Berry Farm welcomes visitors through these special events:

• Pumpkinfest in October at Buckhorn Berry Farm, featuring wagon rides, corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and even a pumpkin cannon.

• Maplefest in spring (currently paused) when visitors used to enjoy maple syrup boiling demos and family-friendly festivities.

Planning Your Visit

• Farms open daily 8 AM–5 PM, with extended hours at Buckhorn Berry Farm on some days 

• Bring buckets or containers if you'd like to pick, and dress for outdoor fun

• Check the farm’s website or social media for daily updates on crop availability and current events

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

• A genuine farm-to-table experience—connecting you and your family with where food comes from

• Endless variety, from berries to veggies to mouthwatering preserves and maple syrup

• A farm that’s grown with the community, led by a family passionate about quality and sustainability 

🍃 Final Thoughts

McLean Berry Farm isn’t just a place to pick berries—it’s a destination that brings fresh food, family fun, and real experiences together. Whether you spend a morning picking strawberries, browsing their farm market, or joining in fall festivities, you'll leave with sweeter memories than just fruit.

For directions, hours, and the latest PYO updates, visit their official website or call the farm—locals recommend texting too (especially for same-day crop availability) 

Looking for the best campsites around Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes? Here's a curated list of top spots—from serene backcountry havens to family-friendly lakeside retreats!

1. Silent Lake Provincial Park

1589 Silent Lake Road, Cardiff, ON 

Just north of Apsley, this quiet escape prohibits motorboats and offers forested campsites across two campgrounds—Pincer Bay and Granite Ridge—plus walk‑in sites and a few electrical ones.  With 19 km of hiking and biking trails and two sandy beaches, it's a top pick for peaceful outdoor families.

2. Balsam Lake Provincial Park 

2238 County Road 48, Kirkfield, ON 

One of Kawartha’s busiest family parks, featuring over 500 sites, a broad sandy beach, and full recreational services. Perfect for swimming, paddling, fishing, and educational programs with lifeguards and trail networks on-site.

3. Emily Provincial Park 

797 Emily Park Road, Omemee, ON 

With 4 campgrounds—including a quiet tent-only area—Emily is praised for calm waters, easy trails, and kid-focused programs . Visitors love the calm beach perfect for wading and nice washroom facilities (including ice cream!) right at the store.

4. Beavermead Campground

2011 Ashburnham Dr, Peterborough, ON 

Located in central Peterborough on Little Lake, this 98‑site campground offers both serviced and un-serviced lots, kayak rentals, supervised swimming, playgrounds, and easy access to trails and town amenities.

5. Lakefield Campground

59 Hague Blvd, Lakefield, ON 

A family-friendly site about 13 km north of Peterborough with 117 sites (including hydro and sewer), a clean sandy beach, boat rentals, and nearby golf/pickleball. Ideally located near Lakefield Village.

6. Woodland Camp Site (Lakehurst)

209 Allen's Road, Lakehurst, ON 

Situated on Upper Buckhorn Lake, this campground offers 45 overnight pads and 130 seasonal spots with full services—playgrounds, beach, sports courts, and boat rentals—just 30 minutes from Peterborough.

✅ Pro Tips

1. Book early: Provincial sites fill fast—reserve at Ontario Parks as soon as dates open.

2. Bring bug protection: Backcountry lakes see peak mosquitoes at dawn/dusk 

3. Respect quiet zones: Silent Lake restrict amplified audio.

4. Know your gear: Backcountry camping needs canoe skills and portaging gear; car camp sites are more relaxed.

Whether you're paddling into a hidden lake or pitching a family tent by a bustling beach, the Peterborough–Kawartha region has a campsite to match every camping style. Happy adventures—see you around the campfire! 🏕️

With temperatures rising, there’s no better way for families to beat the heat than enjoying an afternoon at one of Peterborough’s splash pads. From late spring through early September, the city operates these fun and safe water-play areas daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the special pad at Riverview Park & Zoo open slightly earlier: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

📍 Where the Splash Pads Are Located

Peterborough boasts seven dedicated splash pad locations—each equipped with interactive features like tipping buckets, ground sprays, and tunnels:

Plus, a unique water feature sits in the heart of downtown at Quaker Foods City Square (215 Charlotte St) 

And don’t forget the Riverview Park & Zoo splash pad, running from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily 

✅ Why Splash Pads Are the Perfect Cool-Down Spot

• Zero standing water — No lifeguards needed, easier for parents to keep an eye on kids. 

• Water-wise design — Sprays, fountains, and gear-efficient baths use treated, recirculated water safely. 

• Inclusive & accessible — Great for toddlers to tweens, with non-slip surfaces and wheelchair-friendly layouts.

☀️ Planning a Splash Pad Day? Here's What to Know:

1. Operating Season: May to September, daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., except Riverview (8:30 a.m.–7 p.m.) 

2. Lifeguards: Splash pads aren’t supervised. Parents should stay close—but lifeguards return at wading pools and beaches later in June/July. 

3. Safety First:

   • No lifeguards, so keep attentive.

   • Sunscreen, hats, insect repellent recommended.

   • Water is treated—but still avoid ingestion.

4. Hydration & Shade: Bring water bottles -Quaker Square has a fill station too. 

5. Pick Your Location:

   • Prefer green space? Try Hamilton or King Edward Park.

   • Downtown or errands nearby? Quaker Square is compact and convenient.

🌊 What About Wading Pools & Beaches?

Splash pads are just part of Peterborough’s water fun lineup! Supervised wading pools open June 28 with lifeguards from 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., and Beavermead Beach is lifeguarded from June 28 to August 31, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. 

📝 Final Thoughts

Peterborough’s seven splash pads + downtown water feature offer free, family-friendly cool-down options all summer long. Whether you crave convenience (Quaker Square), playground vibes (Barnardo, Kinsmen), or a mini adventure (Riverview Zoo), there's a splash pad waiting for you. With safe, accessible designs and generous hours, these are summer essentials for kids—and kids at heart!

Ready to dive in? Simply check park hours, pack essentials (water, sunscreen, towels), and enjoy a refreshing splash under our summer sun.