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
Book early: Provincial sites fill fast—reserve at Ontario Parks as soon as dates open.
Bring bug protection: Backcountry lakes see peak mosquitoes at dawn/dusk
Respect quiet zones: Silent Lake restrict amplified audio.
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! 🏕️