Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Ontario: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Kawartha Highlands is Ontario’s second-largest provincial park in Southern Ontario, spanning an impressive 37,587 hectares (92,780 acres) of pristine wilderness? This natural gem, just a 2-hour drive from Toronto, offers an authentic backcountry experience with over 100 campsites accessible only by water and more than 300 interconnected lakes and rivers to explore.

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park: An Overview

Established in 1989, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is a backcountry paradise located in North Kawartha, Ontario. Second in size only to Algonquin among parks in Southern Ontario, it preserves a remarkable landscape of Canadian Shield wilderness, featuring rocky outcrops, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Unlike more developed provincial parks, Kawartha Highlands focuses on preserving its natural state. You won’t find manicured beaches, visitor centers, or maintained hiking trails here. Instead, the park offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking to disconnect from modern conveniences and immerse themselves in nature.

Best Time to Visit Kawartha Highlands

The park is technically open year-round, but the prime visiting season runs from May through October. Each season offers its own unique experience:

For the optimal experience, aim for late September when the summer crowds have dispersed, the fall colors are emerging, and the temperatures remain comfortable for outdoor activities.

Getting to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Located approximately 2 hours northeast of Toronto, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is accessible via several routes:

Access Points

The park has multiple access points, each leading to different lakes:

Top Things to Do in Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

1. Backcountry Canoeing

With over 300 lakes and rivers connected by portage routes, Kawartha Highlands offers exceptional canoeing opportunities. Six well-defined canoe routes range from easy to moderate difficulty, making this an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Popular routes include the Anstruther Lake Circuit and the Mississagua River route. Portages are clearly marked, and a canoe route map can be purchased from the park office in Bancroft.

2. Backcountry Camping

Experience true wilderness camping at one of the park’s 100+ backcountry sites, all accessible only by water. Each campsite features a picnic table, fire ring, and box privy. Most sites can accommodate small groups with at least three tent spots.

Advance reservations are essential and can be made up to five months in advance through the Ontario Parks reservation system. Interior camping permits are required and can be printed at home within 14 days of arrival or obtained in person at the park office in Bancroft.

3. Fishing

Anglers will find excellent fishing opportunities across the park’s many lakes. Species include Lake Trout, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Splake, Walleye, Small and Largemouth Bass, and various panfish. The park boasts 17 stocked trout lakes!

Remember that a valid Ontario fishing license is required, and you should familiarize yourself with seasonal restrictions and catch limits before your trip.

4. Wildlife Viewing

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, eastern wolves, and black bears. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate spotting Common Loons, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Whip-poor-wills, Common Nighthawks, and various warbler species.

Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture these memorable encounters from a safe distance.

5. Winter Activities

For the adventurous winter enthusiast, Kawartha Highlands offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Winter camping is permitted for experienced backcountry campers, but requires thorough preparation and appropriate cold-weather gear.

Access points may not be plowed in winter, so check conditions before planning a winter visit. Always travel with emergency supplies and inform someone of your planned route and return time.

Where to Stay

Accommodation Options

Dining & Food Options

As a backcountry destination, Kawartha Highlands has no dining facilities within the park. Visitors should plan accordingly:

Food Planning

• Backcountry Meals: Pack lightweight, non-perishable foods that are easy to prepare on a camp stove or fire.
• Water Treatment: Bring a reliable water filtration system or purification tablets, as all water from lakes and streams should be treated before consumption.
• Food Storage: Proper food storage is essential to prevent wildlife encounters. Use bear-resistant containers or hang food packs from trees.

Nearby Dining Options

Stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal before or after your park visit at these nearby locations:

Essential Preparation Tips

Before You Go

• Reservations: Book your backcountry campsite up to five months in advance through Ontario Parks Reservations.
• Maps: Purchase detailed canoe route maps from the park office in Bancroft or from outfitters in nearby communities.
• Permits: Obtain necessary camping permits and parking permits. Interior camping permits can be printed at home within 14 days of arrival.
• Weather Check: Monitor weather forecasts closely before your trip and be prepared for changing conditions.

What to Pack

Plan Your Kawartha Highlands Adventure

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park offers a genuine wilderness experience just hours from Toronto. Whether you’re seeking peaceful paddling routes, excellent fishing, or simply a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature, this remarkable park delivers unforgettable adventures.

Remember that this is true backcountry – come prepared, respect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles, and embrace the opportunity to experience one of Ontario’s most beautiful natural landscapes in its pristine state.