Peterborough
Featuring a spring fed lake, sandy beaches, great fishing and lots of fun; it is no wonder that Fairbank Provincial Park has become a hotspot for families and couples alike. With lots to do and lots to see, there is a little something for everyone in this Northern paradise.
Photography – Stunning all year long, but exceptionally breathtaking during the fall, this is the place to capture the magic of nature. Take your photography to a new level and let the fish pose for you. Fairbank is the perfect location to bring your underwater camera and explore the depths of the crystal clear lake. If you prefer to stay above water, be sure to take a snap of one of the many remarkable panoramic views on Wa-Shai-Ga-Mog trail.
Fishing – With lake front campsites and a boat launch onsite, it is an ideal place to get your boat out on the water and enjoy a day of fish filled fun. Cast out your line and you might just hook a Smallmouth Bass, Lake Trout, or one of the many other scaly swimmers that call Fairbank home.
Natural Heritage Education Program – A hands on program that is perfect to get kids interested in the natural world around them. Children will use the park provided equipment to explore and discover both plants and animals. They can even take the Discovery Ranger Pledge and get their very own Discover Ranger Button! This program runs in July and August with activities varying throughout, so be sure to check the program calendar.
Playing – Whether you’re bringing your kids or just your inner child, there is lots of fun to be had! A beach volleyball court, an expansive grass field, and a sandy beach are just a few of the designated play areas. For younger children, there is also a play structure on the main beach. Speaking of the main beach, don’t forget to bring some pails and a shovel because the sand is perfect for sandcastle building competitions!
Hiking – Slow things down a bit and take a hike down Wa-Shai-Ga-Mog trail. Did you know that Wa-Shai-Ga-Mog is the the Ojibway word for “clear water” and was the original name given to Fairbank Lake? The trail is only half a kilometre long, but is somewhat on the challenging side. Rest assured it is well worth it though! If you are brave enough to take the trek, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views not only of the forest and lake, but also the Fairbank Fault.
Bird Watching – A great destination for budding and seasoned bird watchers. Although the park is not home to any rare species, it does have a wide variety of birds that are frequently sighted, such as woodpeckers, warblers, loons, and ducks. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Swimming – It doesn’t get much better than Fairbank Lake. It is not only crystal clear and spring fed, but it also boasts beautiful sandy beaches. A wonderful spot to float along the shore or grab a snorkel to explore a little deeper. The campground has two beaches and one of them is buoyed, so you don’t have to worry about your little ones going too far.
Biking – A fantastic place to cycle around, this is an activity that all ages will enjoy. Sure you can hop on your bike anywhere, but not with the picturesque tranquility that Fairbank provides. The packed dirt roadways are great to zip along with a few small fun hills along the way.
Boating – Season after season, boaters come back to launch their boats in to the crystal clear waters of Fairbank Lake. Perfect not only for fishing, it is also a hotspot for water sports such as waterskiing, knee boarding, wakeboarding and tubing.
Canoeing – In case you haven’t heard, Fairbank Lake is super clear. So clear that in some spots it is possible to see over 8 m (24 feet) in! Experience it first hand by taking to the water in a rented canoe and you will see why this is such a popular destination for both canoe and kayak enthusiast alike.
HOW TO GET TO FAIRBANKS PROVINCIAL PARK
WHERE TO STAY
Camping available form May long weekend to Labour Day Weekend.