Camping

Campsites

With the extent of Haliburton Forest’s lands and the variety of activities offered, many visitors decide on extended stays by camping. In order to accommodate overnight visits in the heart of its lands, Haliburton Forest has developed an extensive network of semi-wilderness campsites on 17 of its 100 lakes. While a majority of sites are leased on an annual basis, a number of designated sites have been reserved for short term use.

The term “semi-wilderness” in the classification of these campsites indicates their unique nature.  Most are situated directly on a lakeshore, well spaced and private, without back lots, and are often out of sight of any neighbour. Sites are equipped with a fire pit and outhouse, but no hook-ups or other services. This concept represents a successful blend of wilderness camping (Algonquin Park style) and camping as it commonly occurs at organized campgrounds.

Camping at Haliburton Forest can only occur on designated sites. Advance reservations are required.

The general camping season runs from mid-May to mid-October. Public access is prohibited during hunting season in the fall.

Early spring walk-in camping is typically available starting mid to late April.

Camping fees for one night include the property use permit from 1:00 pm day of check in until 5:00 pm day of check out.

Check in: 1:00 pm. Each person staying in our campsites is required to sign a liability waiver upon check in.

Check out: 12:00 pm. You must be off your site by noon, but are more than welcome to enjoy the forest until the end of the check out day.

In addition to camping fees, at time of booking a deposit of $25.00 will be required for a gate key. This key grants guests access to Haliburton Forest during your stay. The deposit is returned upon the return of the key.

Advance reservations prior to arrival are essential. A deposit of 50% of your total cost will be requested with every booking. This deposit is non refundable within 15 days of your expected arrival. Outside of the 15 days a refund will be given less a $25.00 administration fee.

Guests are responsible for payment for all dates booked and there will be no refund for early departure.

Camping is only one of the exciting outdoor activities offered at Haliburton Forest.

Some of the other activities include: mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, hiking, birding, orienteering, outdoor education, astronomy and much more.

Information materials and maps for specific activities are available upon request.

In order to accommodate an enjoyable visit for all our guests as well as minimize the human impact on the natural environment at Haliburton Forest, certain rules apply to visitors.

  • A general outboard motor limit of 9.9 horsepower as well as a ban of gasoline outboard motors on certain lakes is in effect.
  • Motor bikes, dune buggies, ATV’s and similar motorized vehicles are prohibited.
  • Noise levels are to be kept at a minimum at all times.
  • The possession of firearms as well as fireworks is strictly prohibited.
  • Littering and mutilation of standing trees is strictly prohibited.
  • Provincial fish and game laws as well as traffic rules apply.
  • While Haliburton Forest is dog friendly, we expect that dogs are kept under the direct control of their owners at all times, not making any excessive noise and being cleaned up after.
  • Firewood cannot be brought into the forest due to the danger of transporting invasive species.

In cases of contravention against any of the above rules, Haliburton Forest reserves the right to cancel any visitor’s privileges immediately and without refund.

Sites have picnic tables, firepit and outhouse.

Please help us prevent the spread of invasive species by not transporting firewood from other areas. Firewood can be purchased at Base Camp for $10.00/bundle.

Should you arrive after hours you will find a red message box outside of the Main Office. In this box you will find an envelope with your name and part of your phone number. In the envelope will be keys and directions to your campsite(s). All visitors are to check in to our Main Office by 11:00 am the following morning to register.

Please have respect for the concerns of others and the environment. Take your garbage, avoid excessive noise and honour posted regulations.

No chainsaw use is permitted.

Vehicle Access

Summer Only

Drive your vehicle right into your campsite.

Backcountry

Summer Only
MacDonald Water Access Site

Enjoy a paddle or hike into our backcountry sites.

Off Season Walk In

No Vehicle Access

No vehicle access for these sites - Walk or snowshoe to your site.

Winter

No Vehicle Access

Walk or ride your snowmobile or ATV into these sites.