By Amanda Carew
When it comes to provincial parks in Ontario it’s hard to choose which ones are the best. People tend to gravitate to the bigger, more popular ones such as Algonquin, Bon Echo, or Killarney. As amazing and gorgeous as those bigger provincial parks are, the smaller ones have quite a lot to offer too and you may just find a gem of a park when you start exploring the lesser known ones. Silent Lake Provincial Park is one of those gems. Located in Apsley, Ontario, it’s beauty and tranquility makes this park stand out as a place that everyone can enjoy for a camping trip or even just a day trip.
1. The lake really is “silent”
No motorized watercraft is permitted on the lake which makes it a perfect spot to get out on the water with a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board. You won’t be fighting against waves made from other boats. You won’t find any crazy traffic on this lake. It also makes it ideal for fishing with the very quiet waters
2. The beaches aren’t over crowded
There are two beaches and because this park isn’t as popular as the bigger ones the crowds stay on the smaller side. Sure, you’ll get the regular long weekend busyness, but overall you’ll find the beaches less crowded compared to other parks. They have one beach right when you get past the entrance gates where many day users like to swim, and another beach at the other side of the park that tends to get more of the camping crowd
3. There are trails perfect for mountain biking
If you love to bring your mountain bike along on your camping trips then Silent Lake will not disappoint. They have designated trails for mountain biking which means you don’t have to worry about walkers being annoyed with you riding on the trail. There are 3 loops you can take your bike on at Silent Lake Provincial Park – a 6km, a 12km, and a 19 km loop. That means no matter what level you are, there is something for everyone
4. They have walk-in sites available
If you want to camp a little deeper into the wilderness, the walk-in sites are a perfect option. The camping sites are no further than 500 meters to walk into so you don’t have to worry about carrying all your gear too far while still getting that back country camping feel
5. They have yurts you can camp in all seasons
This isn’t just a one season campground. You can rent a yurt for a more comfortable stay in the summer, or to enjoy a camping trip in the dead of winter
6. You can rent a canoe or kayak
If you don’t have a canoe or kayak or just don’t feel like bringing ONE MORE THING on your camping trip you can rent canoes and kayaks at Silent Lake which will give you the opportunity to enjoy some time on the water. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to spend some time on the water when camping?
7. The scenery is phenomenal
Pretty much anywhere you go in the park you’ll be surrounded by beauty, but the trails will leave you in awe of the surrounding nature. Complete with lookout points over Silent Lake you will definitely enjoy your time on the trails
8. You can catch your dinner
Home to lake Trout, Small and Large Mouth Bass, Yellow Perch, and Sunfish, you won’t want to forget your fishing rod when you come camping for the weekend at Silent Lake Provincial park
9. Your kids will love the Discovery Program
This program runs during July and August and provides not only an activity book but some materials and equipment to use while exploring the park to assist you in observing all that the park has to offer, such as animals, plants, trees, rocks, and more. You can also earn a Discovery Ranger Button
10. There’s no limit to winter activities as well
Camping just isn’t for the summer! There are a ton of winter activities you can do at Silent Lake Provincial Park such as ice-fishing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Why not try a winter trip in a yurt so you can enjoy all that the park as to offer all year round?
Don’t miss out on this amazing park..
Silent Lake Provincial Park is an absolutely beautiful place to spend for your next camping trip or even a day trip. While smaller than many other provincial parks that doesn’t stop it from offering a whole range of activities, beautiful scenery, and a whole lot of fun that will leave lasting memories for years to come. Consider planning to spend your next camping adventure at Silent Lake Provincial Park. You won’t be disappointed at this beautiful gem in Apsley, Ontario
Do you like Silent Lake Provincial Park? If yes, please share your thoughts in the comments section below
