Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park wilderness guide
Provincial Park · Ontario

Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park offers a serene escape into nature with its old-growth forests and tranquil walking trails, perfect for a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Provincial Park841+ Trails

Designation

Provincial Park

Total Wilderness Area

84

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park offers a serene escape into nature with its old-growth forests and tranquil walking trails, perfect for a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located near the city of Peterborough in Ontario, Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park is a small but treasured area known for its mature hardwood forests. The park provides visitors with a quiet and accessible place to enjoy the beauty of nature, featuring some of the oldest and largest trees in the region. Its simple, well-maintained trails make it an ideal spot for hiking and nature walks. Despite its small size, the park's historical significance is rooted in its conservation efforts initiated in the 19th century to protect this natural habitat from logging. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the forest with minimal disturbance, as the park is designed for day-use activities only. It's a popular spot for photography, bird watching, and picnicking, offering a restorative experience while highlighting the importance of preserving old-growth forest environments.

Field Guide · Provincial Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The towering hardwood trees, including maple and hemlock, which are over 150 years old.✦ Opportunities for bird watching, particularly during the spring and fall migrations.✦ Informative trails that offer insight into the park's natural and cultural history.✦ Tranquil picnic areas that provide a quiet place for relaxation and observation of nature.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Peterborough, Ontario
⌖ 3.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Peterborough, Ontario

Peterborough offers a blend of outdoor fun and cultural experiences—from hiking scenic trails and paddling the Otonabee River to exploring the famous Lift Lock and treasured Canoe Museum.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Otonabee-South Monaghan, Ontario
⌖ 6.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Otonabee-South Monaghan, Ontario

Otonabee-South Monaghan offers peaceful outdoor fun with gentle hikes, river paddling, and scenic cycling through rural Ontario. Ideal for low-key day trips and winter skiing away from busy tourist spots.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Lakefield, Ontario
⌖ 12.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lakefield, Ontario

Lakefield offers calm river paddling, quiet hiking, and scenic cycling in the Kawarthas. This small town is perfect for relaxed outdoor adventures year-round, including winter cross-country skiing and spring bird watching.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Norwood, Ontario
⌖ 19.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Norwood, Ontario

Norwood offers a peaceful escape with hiking, paddling, and cross-country skiing along gentle countryside trails and waterways. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a quiet rural outdoor experience in Southern Ontario.

Late Spring through Fall, plus Winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Port Hope, Ontario
⌖ 20.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Hope, Ontario

Port Hope, Ontario offers easy access to Ganaraska Forest trails, lakefront paddling, and fishing. Its friendly small-town vibe and historic harbor make it a great base for outdoor adventures year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Buckhorn, Ontario
⌖ 21.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Buckhorn, Ontario

Buckhorn, Ontario offers peaceful paddling, scenic hiking, and quality fishing nestled among the Kawartha Lakes. With vibrant village charm and accessible parks, it’s a welcoming base for exploring water and forest adventures year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.