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Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Provincial Park adventures

Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Provincial Park Adventures

Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Provincial Park is a diverse natural area in Ontario offering forested landscapes, wetlands, and lakes for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

9,547
Acres Protected
30+
Miles of Trails
15,000
Annual Visitors
1993
Year Established

About Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Provincial Park

 

Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Provincial Park is a significant protected area located northeast of Peterborough, Ontario, spanning a mix of rugged forests, marshlands, and freshwater lakes. The park’s terrain features rolling hills and abundant wetlands that support a variety of wildlife including beavers, herons, loons, and numerous species of migratory birds, making it an excellent site for birdwatching and other nature-based activities. The park’s forests consist primarily of maple, cedar, and pine trees that showcase striking seasonal changes, especially during autumn foliage. Historically, the area was part of early logging and settlement routes, and remnants of those past human activities can be found in the form of old trails and cultural heritage sites. Visitors are attracted to the park for its extensive trail network, which provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, along with several quiet lakes suitable for canoeing and fishing. The park’s ecosystem is home to provincially significant wetlands, and conservation efforts focus on protecting the diverse habitats and maintaining water quality. Havelock-Belmont-Methuen offers both developed and primitive camping options, appealing to families and backcountry enthusiasts alike. The park’s natural features, accessible yet relatively undiscovered, draw outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquil and varied landscapes within a day’s drive of urban centers.

Highlights

Highlight

Rice Lake, a prominent freshwater lake popular for fishing and paddling

Highlight

Diverse wetland ecosystems supporting rare birds and amphibians

Highlight

The Red Rock Trail featuring scenic views and historical markers

Highlight

Secluded backcountry campsites ideal for wilderness camping

Notable Natural Features

Rice Lake

A large, clean lake within the park offering fishing, canoeing, and a habitat for loons and other waterfowl.

Red Rock Trail

A moderately challenging trail that traverses mixed forests and wetlands with interpretive signs on local history.

Provincially Significant Wetlands

Extensive wetland areas critical for amphibian breeding, migratory birds, and maintaining regional biodiversity.