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Balsam Lake Provincial Park

balsam lake

Ontario Parks
Ontario · reservable

what to expect

Balsam Lake offers a range of electrical and non-electrical sites which can accommodate tents and RVs. The park also offers walk-in campsites which are radio-free and provide an introduction to backcountry experience with amenities close by if required.

Cedar, Maple, and Hawthorn campgrounds are radio-free and generator-free as well, and offer more privacy in comparison to the other campgrounds. Poplar campground is non-electrical and offers relatively private tent sites. Ash, Oak, Elm and Fir campgrounds offer sites that accommodate both tents and trailers in close proximity to the lake.

The Park Cottage can accommodate 6 people, with four-bedrooms and is located across the trail from the waterfront.

Recreational activities are plentiful with two hiking trails, …

the basics

drive from edmonton
35.7h · 2677 km
drive from calgary
35.9h · 2695 km
drive from vancouver
44.7h · 3349 km

stay options nearby

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private campgrounds
camp at a private site

small farms, glamping, off-grid sites listed on Hipcamp near balsam lake.

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hotel nearby
not camping after all?

hotels and inns near balsam lake when plans change.

check booking.com

what to know

updated each morning from provincial parks and Environment Canada.

no fire ban active
Last checked from the provincial fire-ban feed. Check at the gate before you light — conditions change.

what to bring

this list adapts to balsam lake. no showers means a travel towel; the lake means a swimsuit;

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common questions about balsam lake

how far is balsam lake from edmonton?
Balsam Lake Provincial Park is 2677 km from Edmonton — approximately a 35.7-hour drive on highway routes.
do you need reservations at balsam lake?
Yes. Balsam Lake Provincial Park is operated by Ontario Parks and uses an online reservation system. Book direct via the operator link on this page.
when is the best time to camp at balsam lake?
Peak season at Balsam Lake Provincial Park aligns with swimmable months — Jun through Aug. Shoulder months (May, September) offer fewer crowds.

nearby places

within ~100 km of balsam lake.

data last refreshed 2026-05-14 from ontario parks + open sources

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volunteer at ontario parks

Provincial parks rely on volunteer stewards for trail maintenance, beach clean-ups, and shoulder-season hosting. Most parks run programs through their park association.

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