Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas

Kawartha Lakes is home to some of Ontario’s most beautiful provincial parks and conservation areas.

Provincial Parks

Connect with nature, the Kawartha Lakes way.

Spend a weekend camping at Emily or Balsam Lake Provincial Parks, where sandy beaches, hiking trails, fishing, and paddling adventures await. Explore the wild beauty of Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands, one of the province’s largest backcountry parks, or enjoy birdwatching at Indian Point and the world-renowned Carden Alvar. Whether you’re after family-friendly fun or rugged outdoor adventure, the natural spaces of Kawartha Lakes invite you to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature.

Emily Provincial Park

Omemee

Nestled along the Pigeon River, Emily Provincial Park is a family-friendly destination with excellent fishing, boating, and paddling opportunities, thanks to its connection to the Trent-Severn Waterway. The park offers more than 300 campsites, including 170 with electrical hookups to accommodate everything from tents to large RVs. With sandy beaches, playgrounds, and plenty of space to explore, Emily is the perfect spot for a classic camping getaway.

Learn More about Emily Provincial Park

Balsam Lake Provincial Park

Kirkfield

Located near Kirkfield, Balsam Lake Provincial Park is a hub for outdoor adventure. Visitors can hike scenic trails, rent a canoe or bicycle, fish, or enjoy a swim at the beach. The park offers over 500 campsites, ranging from electrical and non-electrical to waterfront and eco-friendly walk-in sites. With plenty of activities for all ages, Balsam Lake is a favourite for both day trips and extended stays.

Learn More about Balsam Lake Provincial Park

Indian Point Provincial Park

Coboconk

Indian Point, a non-operating park managed by Balsam Lake, is located in Coboconk and features the longest stretch of natural shoreline in Kawartha Lakes. A peaceful retreat for hikers, birders, and wildlife enthusiasts, this park does not offer camping but is ideal for day use and nature walks.

Learn More about Indian Point Provincial Park

Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park

Kirkfield

Spanning more than 33,000 hectares, Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands is one of the most diverse natural areas in Ontario, with over 100 habitat types. Known for its rugged rock barrens and beaver fens, it offers a true backcountry experience for adventurers seeking solitude and challenge. This non-operating park has no facilities; camping is first-come, first-served, making it a true wilderness escape.

Learn More about QEII Wildlands Provincial Park

Carden Alvar (Important Bird Area)

Kirkfield

Situated in the Kirkfield area, the Carden Alvar is recognized as one of the top birding locations in Ontario and ranks among the top 200 globally. Its rare alvar habitat attracts birders, naturalists, and photographers eager to spot grassland species and other wildlife unique to the region.

Conservation Areas

Kawartha Lakes is rich with conservation areas that offer year-round opportunities to connect with nature. From scenic hiking trails and peaceful picnic spots to wetlands teeming with wildlife, these natural spaces are perfect for walking, birdwatching, and outdoor adventure. Conservation areas across the region provide a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the beauty of the Kawarthas in every season.

Ken Reid Conservation Area

Lindsay

Fleetwood Creek Natural Area

Pontypool

Windy Ridge Conservation Area

Omemee

Pigeon River Headwaters

Ballyduff

City of Kawartha Lakes Tourism
180 Kent Street West
Lindsay, Ontario, K9V 2Y6
Toll Free: 1-866-397-6673
Phone: 705-324-9411