Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve Ltd. is a privately owned forest in Central Ontario's Haliburton Highlands. Comprising over 60,000 acres of rolling hardwood forests, pristine lakes, meandering rivers and extensive wetlands, make it a nature enthusiasts dream. Haliburton Forest is Canada's first "certified sustainable forest", meeting the stringent standards of the "Forest Stewardship Council", a NGO, supported by such organizations as the WWF or the Sierra Club. (see "Forestry & Conservation" page)
In order to facilitate the exploration of its natural environment, Haliburton Forest offers unique outdoor experiences throughout the year. Information on specific activities is accessible via the main exploration page. Here we provide an outline of general facilities:
The Base Camp
The Base Camp serves as the main entance point into Haliburton Forest and provides all services essential to an enjoyable stay. At the office visitors check in, pick up permits, maps and information material, as well as get updated on the latest conditions and events at Haliburton Forest.
Hours of Operation
Haliburton Forest is open year round. Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days per week. Weekend hours during July and August as well as from January to March, are extended.
Property Use Permits
Property use permits are required for any entrance and visit to Haliburton Forest. The entrance point into Haliburton Forest is the Base Camp, the site of a former saw mill, which left its name and some old equipment preserved as a tribute to the pioneer days in this part of Ontario.
Gas, Oil and Propane
Gasoline, oil and propane are available on site.
Rental Equipment
The type of rental equipment available is dependent on the season. The equipment available includes snowmobiles in the winter as well as canoes, kajaks, and mountain bikes during the summer and fall.
Licensed Restaurant and Store
A licensed restaurant and store on site provides visitors with essentials from toothbrushes to chicken fingers.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available at Base Camp in 2 types:
One consists of spacious 3- and 2- bedroom housekeeping units with 3 piece baths. These are fully equipped with TV to microwave, some with fireplaces, offering a fitting home base for excursions into the forest.
Also available are two rustic, open loft log cabins with kitchen and washroom facilities. Heating is provided predominantly through wood stoves. These buildings lend themselves to accommodating smaller groups of visitors. For images of the inside of our accommodations, please visit the Accommodations page on this site.
Special Events
Special events are organized throughout the year. The Base Camp is either the location or starting point for a wide variety of events and happenings through the four seasons. Detailed information is available via the Programs and Special Events page.
Other Activities
Also available in the forest are: semi-wilderness camping (with a reserved number of sites available for short term use), orienteering, wilderness skills, canoeing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, skiing, hiking and much more. For details please call or contact us via e-mail.
Directions to Haliburton Forest
Haliburton Forest can be reached via Highways 118, 35, and 121. At West Guilford cross the bridge, and take County Road 7 for approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) to the Base Camp. For more details - please consult our Contact page.