Ontario Parks | Kawartha Highlands
Size: 37587.00 ha
Year established: 1989
Park Classification: Natural Environment
Bancroft, ON
K0L 1C0
Birding
Watch for Common Loons, Great Blue Herons and Osprey on park lakes. The park’s rock barrens attract a number of bird species including Whip-poor-will, Common Nighthawk, Scarlet Tanager and Eastern Towhee. Many species of warblers, vireos and sparrows are found in the park as well.
Boating
Motorboats are permitted on most lakes within the park. Check with the Park Office for more information.
Canoeing
Kawartha Highlands provides a taste of wilderness canoeing, close to southern Ontario. There are six recommended canoe routes through the park, ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty. A canoe route map is available for sale from the park office.
Fishing
Try your luck for bass, walleye, panfish and trout.
Hunting
Hunting in this park is subject to the Ontario Hunting Regulations. Certain restrictions apply. For more information, contact the park or your local area or district office of the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Swimming
The many clear lakes of Kawartha Highlands provide great opportunities for swimming at campsites and throughout the park.
Winter Activities
Winter camping is allowed and you must obtain a permit by calling 1-888-668-7275 or online at https://reservations.ontarioparks.com. Please note that although you have made a reservation for a designated campsite, you are required to camp at least 30 metres away from any designated campsite, shoreline, trail or portage between December 1 and March 31.
We recommend that you camp in low-sheltered areas where there is a good supply of standing dead firewood for warmth and cooking.
Boat Launch
Boat launches for small vessels exist at the following access points: Anstruther, Wolf, Loon Call and Long Lakes.
Day Use
Kawartha Highlands offers many options for those who want to paddle for the day. During your day trip you can enjoy a shore lunch and swim at a scenic lakeside spot. There are limited day-use facilities at a few of the access points.