Campbellford is the place you want to head to if you are looking for a peaceful getaway to disconnect and connect with nature. The Trent River runs through the town creating two picturesque East & Westside divisions to downtown. At first sight, Campbellford seems like any typical small town, but after exploring you realize there are so many hidden gems adding a charm unlike any other. With its diverse restaurants, delicious bakeries, and eclectic furniture shops, Campbellford is the perfect town for a relaxing weekend. Keep reading for everything you need to know when planning your trip.
Where to Stay in Campbellford, Ontario
For quaint accommodations that take you back in time and emerge you into an authentic cottage vibe then you are in luck! From lakefront cabins to inns and cozy B & B’s, there are accommodation options for everyone depending on what you are looking for and if you are a small family or a bigger group.
We stayed at Windswept on the Trent in the Coach House and it was such an authentic, Canadian cottage experience. Situated right by the river in a secluded hideaway with ample space for your dog to run around (yes! this location is dog-friendly). Rustic, but the hosts were lovely and there is also breakfast included in the morning. The property does offer canoes, kayaks, and bicycles which you can freely use to explore the surrounding area.
What To Do in Campbellford
Pet The Donkeys at PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary | 1296 Bowmanton Rd, Roseneath
Animal sanctuaries have such a special place in my heart. Having a dog I appreciate the time people take to rescue, protect, and rehabilitate abused, neglected, and unwanted animals. PrimRose sanctuary specializes in donkeys, mules, and hinnies. The drive here alone is so scenic. Due to the pandemic, they are now open for curbside viewing only, Thursdays and Sundays 1-3 pm. They also have volunteers that tell you about the animals and the sanctuary.
Hike The Trails At The Carstairs Tract | 1270-1296 Bowmanton Rd, Roseneath
Campbellford is located on the Trans Canada Trail so if you are looking for a city escape to be outdoors and reconnect with nature, you need to visit! From hiking, biking, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, and skiing, the list of outdoor activities is endless for both winter and summer. There is over 10 km of trails through forest and riverside settings. The Carstairs Tract has such an interesting history. It was once a farmed landscape then it was an arboretum only to be re-planted again with Red Pine, White Pine, White Spruce. As a result, the trail has gorgeous tall trees towering over the trail like a beautiful enchanted forest. There are three different loops you can choose from and I love there are also informational plaques about the trees along the trail.
Have Lunch At Villa Conti Oak Heights Estate Winery |337 Covert Hill Rd, Warkworth
Villa Conti at Oak Heights Estate Winery offers a lovely landscape view where you can enjoy an Italian lunch. Tucked in between farmlands and endless rows of trees, this spot will make you feel like you are somewhere in Tuscany. Villa Conti is a 100-acre property that has 35 acres of vines, a natural pond, and the best part is a mini-farm. What really stands out about this spot is their farm-to-table concept. Their menu consists of rustic fresh Italian food and a selection of wine that makes the experience so much more enjoyable.
See the Giant Toonie | 51 Grand Rd, Campbellford
Campbellford is known for being home to the gigantic Toonie. The “Toonie” structure was built in 2001 in honour of local artist Brent Townsend who in 1996 designed the portrait of the polar bear that appears on the current Canadian 2 dollar coin. The Twoonie is 8.2 metres high and it’s located in the Old Mill Park right across from the serene views of Trent River. I highly recommend grabbing take-out and enjoying a quick lunch at the park where the Toonie is located at. It is right by the river and it is the perfect spot for a picnic.
Walkthrough the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge | 474 County Rd 8, Campbellford
For an adventure in nature, visit Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge. Located within Ferris Provincial Park, the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge is the perfect destination for an easy hike with breathtaking overlooking views. The bridge is just 30 feet above the Ranney Gorge but walking across the 300-foot long bridge is such an experience. Depending on how you feel about heights this pedestrian suspension bridge may not be for you, but the trails alone in the park are worth it.
Grab Delicious Cheeses at Empire Cheese and Butter Co-op | 1120 County Rd. 8, Campbellford
The first Empire Cheese Factory was built in the late 1870’s, making this company over 100 years ago. They have a variety of specialty cheeses and their fresh daily made curds are very popular with locals and out-of-town visitors. Empire Cheese has preserved the traditional way of making cheese in open-style vats which gives the cheese and curd more flavour. Empire Cheese doesn’t use any additives to boost production and there are no artificial flavours added to their Cheddar. Their products are natural, with no preservatives which makes it no surprise that Empire Cheese has many award-winning cheeses on their product line.
Have a Drink At Church-Key Brewing | 1678 County Road 38, Campbellford
Church-Key is the only microbrewery in Northumberland and it was founded in 2000 by brewmaster John Graham. What makes this brewery really cool is that it is located in a rustic 1878 Methodist Church. The church is restored, but the original architecture and stained glass windows have been preserved making this spot the perfect stop for a drink. The location is very picturesque situated in the beautiful countryside of Northumberland County. You should try their award-winning peat-smoked Scotch Ale named “Holy Smoke”. The brewing process is also energy-efficient and draws on solar energy while also re-using as much heat as possible.
Restock on Curle’s Maple Products | 726 8th Line West, Campbellford
If you love Maple Syrup stop by Curle’s Maple Products to restock your pantry with maple syrup, sugar, and fresh butter. There is nothing more Canadian than maple syrup and Northumberland has plenty of it! This is a family-run farm that has been making maple products since 1862. There is also the Maple Museum where you can take a self-guided tour and learn all about maple syrup and the family history. This is a really fun place for kids. Another local maple syrup producer is Sandy Flat Sugar Bush and Pancake House. If you visit in March and April on the weekends you can enjoy a pancake breakfast with maple products.
Kayak The Waterways of Northumberland County
This was my first time kayaking and I have been missing out. Kayaking is so fun. Whether you decide to kayak or canoe, having tried both kayaking is much easier, and the waterways in Northumberland County are so soothing for your soul. You’ll find routes suitable for newbies, families and risk-takers. Northumberland is one of the only areas in Ontario that allows you to paddle through a lock and canal system- the Trent-Severn Waterway.
Explore The Butter Tart Trail
The iconic Canadian treat is the butter tart and there is a tour you can take to taste all the delicious butter tarts. The Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour has over 50 stops and it is one of the yummiest trails you ever go on. Spread across the region, highly recommend spreading the tour out in two days.
- Campbellford has three Butter Tart Tour stops:
- Antonia’s Bistro
- Dooher’s Bakery
- Capers Restaurant
Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings at Doohers Bakery | 61 Bridge St. E., Campbellford
Even there is a huge line outside, you have to be patient and line up. I promise you will not regret it. Dooher’s Bakery has been a family-owned bakery in downtown Campbellford since 1949. The bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods like donuts, pastries, pies, they even offer preservative-free artisan bread. It was voted as the Sweetest Bakery in Canada in 2018 and their famous donuts sell out quickly so make sure to get there early in the day. Don’t stop yourself from grabbing a dozen because they are SO good.
Stop and Smell The Flowers
If you are visiting Campbellford in the spring you will have the ultimate floral experience. Walk through Northumberland’s countryside at the end of May and you get to view thousands of fragrant lilac bushes and Ontario’s official flower, the trillium. Trillium flowers grow in the Northumberland County forest, and during springtime, the countryside is covered in them. You can check out this Google Map with three themed lilac tours to choose from for your country escape. Take a breathe and take it all in because the scents are heavenly. The Northumberland Lilac Tour will lead you to the Warkworth Lilac Festival and Millennium Park trail where you can see and smell over 65 varieties of lilacs in bloom.
Go For a Swim at Healey Falls
Healy Falls is a hidden gem that is simply spectacular. Beautiful, but hard to find, these Falls are tucked away behind a one-lane road on county road 50 just before the bridge. There is limited parking, but it doesn’t get crowded. This is the perfect spot to reconnect with mother nature. The sound of the water, the surrounding nature, and the tall trees make this spot a must. We didn’t know we can go swimming here, but definitely wear your swimsuit if you are visiting on a hot day. You can also walk across the dam since the limestone has been naturally morphed into a beautiful cascade of wide steps. The water is not too powerful. Margot (our dog) was able to walk and stand across it with no issues. Just be cautious because there are warning signs.
