Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Set on the northern shore of Balsam Lake, across the way from Indian Point, Balsam Lake Provincial Park offers outdoor recreation seekers the ideal escape. The park consists of nearly 450 hectares of forested land in Kawartha Lakes known for outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, boating and fishing.
Stay overnight in a tent, RV or the lakeside cottage. A large beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing and beachcombing, while most of the park features hiking and cycling trails.
Balsam Lake | Fred Thornhill, Kawartha Lakes
How to get to Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Location: 2238 Kawartha Lakes County Road 48, Kirkfield
By car: Located off Highway 48 in Kawartha Lakes the park is connected to the famous Trent-Severn Waterway. Designated parking is available.
By bike: Balsam Park features multiple bike trails accessed from Uxbridge, Oshawa or Whitby.
Know before you go
Make camping reservations online or over the phone. Each campsite can accommodate a maximum of six campers. The park operates seasonally from mid-May to the end of October.
Vehicles may only be operated on roads and must display a valid provincial park permit.
Note that there are no lifeguards posted at Balsam Lake Provincial Park Beach. It is recommended that you wear a life jacket.
Things to do at Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Discover more activities and experiences.
Go paddling
The Balsam Lake Provincial Park beach features protective buoys for swimming and you can also rent paddle boats, kayaks and canoes to explore the water.
Hike nature trails
The Lookout Trail winds through 10,000-year-old glacial channels and hills, while the longer Plantation Trail takes you through quiet nature.
Explore by bike
Enjoy a 10-kilometre bike ride alongside forest and on local cottage roads.
Enjoy birdwatching
Watch for species of birds including hummingbirds, loons, hawks, osprey, woodpeckers, orioles and owls.
Enjoy quality family time
Three large picnic areas near the beach, plus a shady spot with a children’s playground are great spots for family time.
Stay overnight
Set up your tent or park your RV at the campground or book the lakeside cottage with great views of Balsam Lake.
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Interesting facts about Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Balsam Lake Provincial Park is on the north shore of Balsam Lake, lying on thinly mantled limestone. Kame moraine, esker, and limestone plain landforms are among the park’s significant natural heritage values. The park protects land within the ecologically important transition zone between the Canadian Shield to the north and the St. Lawrence Lowlands to the south.
The park is surrounded by private land, except for where it borders Balsam Lake. The land adjacent to the park is used for agricultural purposes, recreational cottages and year-round homes.
Accessibility Features
Service animals welcome
Support persons welcome
Last updated: September 16, 2024