Emily Provincial Park: Everything to Know in 2026

Tucked away in the picturesque Kawartha Lakes region, Emily Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s best examples of quiet natural beauty paired with classic Canadian camping. Easily accessible yet far enough from the city buzz, this park appeals to families, paddlers, anglers, hikers, and anyone in need of a true breath of fresh air. Its landscape is shaped by gently rolling fields, lush forests, and the winding Pigeon River, creating a setting where adventure and relaxation find easy balance.

Why Emily Provincial Park Stands Out

There’s something singular about arriving and hearing the gentle flow of the Pigeon River, the call of loons echoing through the trees, and the laughter of families building sandcastles along sandy beaches. Emily’s charm is not only in what it offers, but also in what it helps visitors leave behind. The park invites you to unplug and reconnect, making it a cherished spot for generations of Ontarians and visitors alike.

Family-Friendly Camping

Camping at Emily Provincial Park feels almost tailor-made for families seeking both comfort and the outdoors. With over 300 campsites (some with electrical hookups, some more rustic), there’s a spot for everyone. Sites are well-shaded by mature trees and thoughtfully arranged to offer a degree of privacy.

There’s a choice between two main campgrounds:

Campground Area	Features	Best For
Lookout	Close to hiking trails and forested	Adventure seekers, shade lovers
Circle	Near playgrounds and beach access	Families with young children

Modern comfort stations, laundry facilities, and a centrally located store make things a whole lot easier—no need to worry if you forget marshmallows or bug spray.

If you prefer a more rustic experience, the park also has walk-in campsites—perfect for those looking to trade easy car access for quiet mornings undisturbed by cars or generators.

Waterfront Wonder

The two sandy beaches here gently slope into the slow-moving Pigeon River, making them safe spots for swimming. The water is often warmer than some of Ontario’s larger lakes, so even early summer visits are pleasant for kids. Life jackets are available to borrow at the park gatehouse, reflecting a focus on friendly service and safety.

Boating enthusiasts are in for a treat. The river connects with the Trent-Severn Waterway, offering scenic paddling routes that suit both beginners and seasoned canoeists. Visitors often spot herons, turtles, and the occasional muskrat, especially during quiet morning paddles.

Want to launch your own craft? There’s a boat launch designed for small boats and canoes. Rentals are typically available for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats—a handy option if you want to pack light.

Angling Opportunities

Ask around, and you’ll soon hear tales of the fish caught just off the park’s shoreline. The Pigeon River, part of the broader Kawartha Lakes system, is home to perch, bass, walleye, and muskie. Early morning or late afternoon often brings the best results, with fish breaking the surface in calm waters. Don’t forget your Ontario fishing license, and familiarize yourself with local regulations to help maintain the ecosystem’s health.

Hiking Trails at Emily Provincial Park

For those who prefer exploring on land, Emily Provincial Park provides a handful of well-marked, manageable trails. The Emily Trail, a 2.3 km loop, winds through mixed hardwood and pine forest, ideal for a family stroll or birdwatching. Interpretive signs along the way share snippets of the park’s natural and cultural history, bringing added information and context to each step.

Biking is permitted on park roads, offering another way for kids to burn off energy or adults to take in more scenery. Plan to keep an eye out for local wildlife: deer, rabbits, and – if you’re lucky – a glimpse of foxes going about their business.

Programs and Special Events

One thing that sets Emily apart is its popular Discovery Program. Offered throughout summer, these ranger-led activities help curious visitors connect with the local ecology. Sessions might include guided hikes, evening campfire talks, or wildlife meet-and-greets for younger kids. The program aims to foster stewardship of Ontario’s parks and usually runs on weekends and holiday weeks.

Annual events give an added spark to the park calendar. The August Civic Holiday “Corn Roast,” has become something of a tradition, bringing campers together around fresh local corn and community games. Scheduled activities are listed at the gatehouse and online closer to the date.

A Springboard for Regional Adventures

Emily Provincial Park serves as a gateway to the broader Kawartha Lakes tourism region, known for its welcoming communities and scenic drives. Just 15 minutes away is the city of Lindsay, where visitors can enjoy everything from summer farmers' markets to quaint local eateries. Meanwhile, the nearby village of Omemee (the childhood home of Neil Young), has a storied musical heritage and small-town charm.

If history piques your interest, head over to Lang Pioneer Village Museum for a step back into 19th-century Ontario life, or cycle part of the Trans Canada Trail as it threads through the region.

Wildlife and Conservation Ethic

Emily Provincial Park sits along a migration corridor, making it an excellent birdwatching spot. Red-winged blackbirds, warblers, and osprey are frequent visitors, and the early morning chorus can be breathtaking. The park’s management plan stresses environmental sustainability—campers are encouraged to use only marked fire pits, pack out all waste, and follow rules to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Environmental stewardship is more than a set of rules here; many campers come year after year, shaping park culture through sharing advice and looking after the landscape. This community spirit adds to the welcoming feel of the park.

Insider Tips for a Fantastic Stay

Getting the most out of your time in Emily is often about timing, preparation, and a little local knowledge.

• Reserve early: Especially in July and August, spots go fast. Reservations open five months in advance through Ontario Parks.

• Bug season: Early summer means mosquitoes—bring repellent and screen tents.

• Quietest times: Late August and early September offer warm water and thinner crowds, sometimes making it feel like you have the park to yourself.

• Night skies: On clear nights, bring a blanket and stretch out near the river—the stargazing is spectacular.

• Family gear: Wagons and strollers are handy for hauling sand toys down to the beach.

A Table of Emily’s Seasonal Highlights

Season	Highlights	Tips
Spring	Wildflowers bloom, bird migration	Trails can be muddy – pack boots
Summer	Swimming, Discovery Program, events	Reserve early, beach umbrellas useful
Early Fall	Quiet campgrounds, brilliant foliage	Bring layers for cool nights

The Spirit of Community

For many, what makes Emily Provincial Park a beloved Ontario tradition is its atmosphere—a feeling that's hard to define. Campers greet each other with easy smiles, kids make fast friends at the beach, and rangers are eager to share advice about hidden corners or the best fishing spots.

It’s this social thread, woven through group campfires and spontaneous games at the playground, that leaves a lasting mark on visitors. Many families return year after year for this reason alone.

Getting There and Planning

Located about 20 minutes from Peterborough and 90 minutes from Toronto, Emily Provincial Park is an easy drive for most southern Ontarians. Getting there usually means heading east from Toronto on Highway 401, then north on Highway 35/115 and following clear signs to the park entrance.

Supplies are nearby if you forget anything significant—groceries, fuel, and outdoor gear are all available within a short drive. The park office is a reliable source for maps, local recommendations, and updates on conditions.

Leaving No Trace

No matter how long your stay, respect for the land is key. Emily is maintained both by dedicated Ontario Parks staff and mindful visitors. Adopting a “leave no trace” approach ensures this green oasis remains for the next person to enjoy.

As the campfire embers fade at the end of your day, the feeling lingers: Emily Provincial Park is a place where everyday worries sink away and where Ontario’s natural gifts of nature are welcomed like old friends. If you’re seeking that blend of simple comfort, summer tradition, and real outdoor fun, you just might find it here.