Forest camping near Kawartha Lakes with campfires
With so much shoreline to choose from, Kawartha Lakes is a waterfront camper’s paradise.
96% (499 reviews)
96% (499 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Kawartha Lakes
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Dog-friendly getaways
12 top forest campgrounds near Kawartha Lakes with campfires
86%
(48)
Harmony Resorts - Stoney Lake
9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Peterborough, ON
You will find our campground amongst the rugged precambrian rocks and windswept pines on the shores of Stoney Lake, the crown jewel of the Kawarthas. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of our pinery sites, or experience the tranquility of our lakeside sites.
Enjoy the pristine water as you relax on our private sandy beach or launch a boat to explore the lake’s hundreds of beautiful islands. Stoney Lake is known for its excellent fishing and is home to large populations of bass, walleye, and muskie.
Petroglyph Provincial Park, located right across the street is a sacred Indigenous site with the largest known concentration of aboriginal rock carvings in Canada. Explore the excellent hiking trails the park has to offer or visit McGinnis Lake, one of few meromictic lakes in North America.
At the end of each day the lullaby of the northern loon will call through the cool night air as you drift off to sleep. We can’t wait to share our place with you!
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CA$66
/ night
96%
(81)
Foresthill Retreat
2 sites · Lodging49 acres · Harcourt, ON
This property used to be a farm until 1912, the glamping site is located far from
the house in what used to be a vegetable garden!
The glamping tent is well equipped and has everything you need for a cozy comfortable stay including electricity! The outdoor kitchen on site has everything you need to cook a delicious meal. There are also
hammocks, an outdoor shower, tables and chairs, and an extremely well-stocked site super clean outhouse.
Lots of lakes in the area.
General stores and gas within 5 minutes and the
Grocery stores are within 15 minutes for all your camping needs.
Provincial Parks Nearby:
Wolf Island Provincial Park - 10 minutes,
Kawartha Highlands Signature Park - 15 minutes,
Quackenbush Provincial Park - 25 minutes,
Petroglyphs Provincial Park - 30 minutes
At night you will hear nothing but frogs, very private and very romantic.
We can't wait to host you at
Foresthill Retreat!
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CA$100
/ night
100%
(35)
Three Ponds Homestead
6 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Severn, ON
Nestled on the outskirts of Orillia, our serene 25-acre property and horse farm is minutes from Bass Lake and 15 minutes from local marinas. Our hidden gem homestead is the perfect place to disconnect. Trails to walk/hike, fields and forests to play in and the option for overnight pasture or stall horse board for our equine friends. You'll love the tranquility here. Follow us on IG at "Three.Ponds" for more pics, videos and info, including our Three Ponds Retreat dates!
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CA$50
/ night
Booked 8 times
Camp Rose Island
5 sites · Lodging95 acres · Coe Hill, ON
Welcome to Camp Rose Island!
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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CA$79
/ night
97%
(62)
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 company! The mature trees, rolling terrain, and private road offer lots of privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. 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. 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 6.
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!
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CA$60
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99%
(72)
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.
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CA$50
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98%
(41)
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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CA$65
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Simple Cabin in town
1 site · Lodging1 acre · Haliburton Village, ON
Open space, including kitchen, comfy bed, couch and wood stove. There is an outhouse and water is provided for drinking, wash up and rinsing (no running water)
Basic cooking utensils, small fridge, hot plate, coffee press and kettle.
The cabin is in town, there are neighbors and general sounds of town.
- 2 min drive to Main street-shops, cafes, pub, lake access, ice skating
- 5 min drive to cross country ski trails, snowshoe trails and a sculpture forest
- 15 min drive to ski hill and water spa
There is a cedar sauna on the property you are welcome to use during your stay. Along with a simple outdoor / off grid shower for rinsing.
Parking is on the street in front of the cabin.
Please keep tight to the right for the snowplow and neighbors to get by.
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CA$135
/ night
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(32)
Magical Camping on Muskoka River
1 site · RV, Tent1 acres · Bracebridge, ON
Welcome to Tent Camping on South Muskoka River!
Situated in Bracebridge, Ontario, an area known for its eight major waterfalls, you will love this perfect little getaway. The property is situated right on the river and you can enjoy paddling and swimming right from your site. There is an outdoor prep area for cooking and an outhouse on site. If the weather turns, there is a screened-in porch to help you weather out the storm. On sunny days you can relax by the tranquil river on the dock with sunset and moonrise exposure. Great for fall camping!
NOTE: This site is at 1128 Cridiford Road. PLEASE DO NOT DRIVE DOWN DRIVEWAY AT 1133. If you hit the bearproof green bin you have gone too far and need to drive to end of road and turn around, not in neighbour's (1133) driveway.
Please adhere to the guidelines for bears:
https://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/visit/recreational_activites/black-bear-safety-rules.php?fbclid=IwAR2sds_SuTGw-nKnY2-KgTjzm71Yt4_Dr88C8GuyyXRj-tc_DJInd9P_1nU
If you are a paddling enthusiast we have a Grumman aluminum canoe and paddleboard available for use. Life jackets a must (supplied).
The tent area is flat and has a firepit (please use the wood piled between the trees and pile to the right of the woodshed - the wood in the woodshed is for the woodstove inside) where you can enjoy amazing sunsets and nights around the fire. Paddle to Slater Falls (paddle to the right up the river) and walk to May Chutes (go right on the road and keep to the shore) .
The property is located 20 minutes to the downtown core of Bracebridge, where can stock up on essentials, go to restaurants or take a stroll on the riverwalk and enjoy the spectacular views of Bracebridge falls.
LGBTQI2S+ friendly spot!
Note: Having a go at selling the property if you know anyone who might be interested! https://www.kijiji.ca/v-land-for-sale/muskoka/fabulous-offering-of-this-rural-residential-lot-sr1/1630471789
Potable water
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CA$50
/ night
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Three Pines Retreat
1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Buckhorn, ON
Welcome to Three Pines Retreat! We are so happy to be hosting you.
Your campsite is high and dry, easy to access by car and has ample parking.
The terrain is pink granite with soft spots for a tent or solid ground to park your trailer (sorry no hook ups or liquid waste removal). There's a picnic table, firewood and private toilet included. Whether you prefer to be in sun or shade, both are available at this site. As much as we are sheltered from the County road, traffic can be heard at times.
There is so much to enjoy at our location...
Jump on your favourite floatie and float your troubles away down the lazy river located just a short walk across the road at Kawartha Highlands Signature Park. If kayaking and canoeing are more your thing, you will be in awe of the beautiful scenery as you paddle along. This breathtaking park also offers self-guided tours of its history and landscape.
Three Pines Retreat is surrounded by lakes and trails and is only 3 km from the picturesque town of Buckhorn. Forget something or feel like dining out? Buckhorn hosts an LCBO, grocery stores and restaurants overlooking the locks. Pizza Alloro will lure you in for a delectable slice and Main St. Bar and Grill offers delicious fare and live entertainment. If you know anything about Kawartha Dairy ice cream you will be sure to stop at Buckhorn Ice Cream Parlour for a tasty treat.
Three Pines is just a 2 minute drive to Kawartha Winery and Belly's restaurant. The winery offers free tastings of its wonderful fruit wines and ciders and at certain times of the year they offer delicious wood-fired pizza. Belly's is known for it's creative casual dining and live entertainment and is located in the heart of Catalina Bay.
Thank you for checking out Three Pines Retreat - your home away from home where you can forget all your troubles, rest and relax.
We look forward to meeting you.
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CA$85
/ night
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'The Bear Den' - Muskoka Glamping
1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Gravenhurst, ON
Welcome to 'The Bear Den'
You've come to the Muskokas where bears moose deer wolves roam and a feeling of ' HYGGE ' awaits as you settle on the grounds. Adventure awaits at nearby lakes (Prospect lake public beach 5mins drive), Muskoka river and other small rivers that you can explore/fish/paddle/canoe all the way to lake Rosseau or Lake of Bays, Lake Muskoka awaits you.
Whether you are on your motorcycle driving through, RV'ing, boating, golfing, you can use this site as your home base and go do all activities in around Muskoka.
Equipment Rentals @ LIV Outside SHOP.
15 mins away towards the town just past HWY 11 on HWY 118 a LIV Outside SHOP for all your Muskoka needs, canoe's, kayaks, bicycles etc. All available for rent.
The site is all yours, enjoy the hammock, (sauna coming soon), and warm up with bon fires every night amongst the tall pines and hemlock trees.
Bring family, pets and friends... Tents and/or small trailers are welcome.
Looking forward to meeting you and your friends, remember you will be my guests 😀
NOTE: Please leave site as you were never there, all garbage must be taken with you, and stored securely while on site (wildlife).
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CA$95
/ night
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❤️186 ACRES OF FARM HORSE CAMPING 🐎🐄
6 sites · Tents189 acres · Tay, ON
Learn more about this land:Pitch a tent on our 186 acres of FARM CAMPING and enjoy a gorgeous nearly untouched wilderness experience and bring your fuzzy socks and boots if you want to add in an equestrian experience. Nobody around for miles - LITERALLY! 12 horses on site if you like to ride and camp all at the same place. Gorgeous and serene !
Pricing for trail rides - sleigh rides separate. You can also bring your own horses for horse camping we have a beautiful new facility to accommodate almost any equestrian need.
Upon arrival you can safely park your car and we can if desired carry your gear and you pack to the camping acreage via our tractor or golf cart or simply walk yourself - it’s not far. Our outhouse is near the main house - we have access to a SOLIS X for an extra fee if you need WIFI. Farm fresh eggs also available to cook over your fire from our 12 new and amazing chickens ! Free of charge ... we will do anything possible to make your stay comfy and relaxed. Please note - firewood is available for an extra fee (we prefer if you don’t bring your own since some can be infected with invasive species and we try to protect the area as much as possibles). Firewood is $6.00 a bag and typically includes starters and kindling) depending on the local supplier we use.
Coming in the summer - fire pits - bunkies - GLAMPING - and more but for now - come walk / hike our endless trails lined with black berry bushes and wild strawberries along our “secret garden” and enjoy absolute privacy and solitude knowing we are sort of nearby if you need anything at all. We are new at this - just bought this amazing property but we are here to share the experience- WELCOME to our journey - we are at the first step. If you have any questions please ask ! We want to accommodate everyone as best we can :) Need a baby seat or carrier - we can help ... if you forgot your rain coat just text us, we’ll run one out to you and if you want to ride the horses as well .. just let us know your experience level and we will try to accommodate (it may not always be possible so please ask in advance it cannot be done on arrival) . We have very skilled trail guides and coaches on staff and we offer husband horses for those in the know :) We don’t have any set prices for trail rides yet so give us a shout and we’ll work it out but typically we offer lessons at 75.00 an hour - it’s difficult to price not knowing skill levels and staff required to support your experience so we hope you understand. Mostly we want you to come - unload your baggage and walk into our little slice of heaven ... we call it respite for your soul and we think you’ll think so too.
You can see more photos on IG - Twitter and FB “SOUTHWINDS FARM” come say hello ! When you come to check in you can just carry on your way with little interaction if you like or have a visit with our fury friends or we’ll help you get to where you’re going (you can pick almost anywhere you like on the acreage) we do provide a rudimentary map and information about our surrounding area. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to make your stay better.
All garbage and recycling must be packed up removed upon checkout.
Happy Camping!
Pets
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CA$60
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Under $50
Star Hosts in Kawartha Lakes
Forest camping near Kawartha Lakes with campfires guide
Overview
The Kawartha Lakes region features a series of long, thin lakes, many of them connected as part of the Trent-Severn Waterway. The area attracts anglers, paddlers, hikers, and campers from all around southern Ontario. Winter activities are also abundant, including skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Cycling has become a year-round activity too, thanks to “fat biking.” It’s a popular getaway for Torontonians—just a 90-minute drive from the city with lots of campgrounds to choose from, and just to the north is Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park.
Where to go
Near Peterborough
Peterborough is the largest city in the region and offers the most conveniences for campers who want to get supplies or indulge in a restaurant meal. Beavermead Campground is right on the edge of the city, but a short drive north provides lakeside options on Chemong Lake and Pigeon Lake. Many trailer parks also have cabins available for rent.
Near Fenelon Falls
The village of Fenelon Falls is one of those oh-so-charming places that visitors can’t resist. It sits between Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake, and offers access to the 85-kilometre Victoria Rail Trail, a multi-use trail open year round. Head north of town on Country Road 121 to find private campgrounds like Log Chateau Park and Fenelon Valley Trailer Park.
Near Bobcaygeon
Bobcaygeon is located on an island between Pigeon Lake and the north end of Sturgeon Lake. Campers in the area have a lot of choices, with campgrounds, trailer parks, resorts, and cottages all along the shorelines. Staying near Bobcaygeon puts you close to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park (an hour’s drive from town) if that’s your eventual destination.
When to go
Kawartha Lakes can be enjoyed year-round, although winter camping options will be limited because many private campgrounds are open only from May to October. However, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park stays open all year. Summer visits are best planned for midweek, since weekends are very busy. For peace and quiet, visit in early spring before fishing season opens and seasonal campers arrive.
Know before you go
- Although trailer parks are abundant in the area, many of them book out most of their sites to customers for the whole season, leaving little availability for short-term campers.
- Many area cottage “resorts” also have camping options. Don’t let the name fool you.
- The Trent-Severn Waterway makes boating a common activity in the area. Paddlers should be prepared for traffic on the lakes and try to stay away from the main thoroughfares.
- Hikers should grab a guide to the 500-kilometre Ganaraska Hiking Trail, which passes through the region.
Popular Kawartha Lakes trips
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