Silent Lake Provincial Park
Open May 10th - October 13, 2003
Silent Lake Park is 1,420 hectares on Highway 28, 24
kilometres south of Bancroft. Apart from the campground
areas on the north shore of the lake, the  Park is undeveloped
and remains in its natural state. Around Silent Lake
the forest is a mix of the deciduous and evergreen species
typical of this latitude. Birch, maple, hemlock and
white pine are the most common.
Of interest to naturists are the many varieties of wildflowers
that grow throughout the park. Some unusual types -
rose pogonia, rattlesnake fern and toothwort can be
discovered in more isolated areas. Plants more commonly
seen include several types of ferns and orchids, sedges
and pitcher plants.
Camping
A total of 167 campsites are scattered throughout the
developed area. A choice of different camping experiences
are available with the majority of the sites on one
of the park roads which can accommodate small motor
homes and trailers as well as tents. Walk-in sites,
away from the roads but easily reached from the parking
lots, offer tent campers the peace and solitude of wilderness
camping without arduous backpacking.
All campsites have fireplace grills and picnic tables;
vault toilets and water taps are conveniently located
close to all sites. There are also two comfort stations
with flush toilets, hot showers and laundry facilities,
and a wood yard near the campgrounds. A trailer sanitation
station is close to the park entrance.
Swimming
There are three small sandy beaches in the Park, one
for day use and the other two close to the campgrounds.
The swimming areas are shallow and safe for small children;
however, there are no lifeguards, so parents are responsible
for their children's safety.
Canoeing
To preserve the solitude of the natural environment,
motorboats are not allowed in the park. Three interconnecting
lakes provide interesting trips for those who wish to
paddle farther from the campgrounds. 
There are several rocky islands to explore and, from
the water, there is no evidence of human habitation.
There are three launching areas - two near the campgrounds
and one in the day-use area. Canoes are available to
rent.
Fishing
The natural population of lake trout in Silent Lake
is augmented by a regular stocking program. Trout fishing
is best in the deeper waters of the lake, but smallmouth
and largemouth bass and other pan fish can be caught
in shallow waters near the shoreline.
Hiking
Three well-marked hiking trails, ranging in length from
1.5 to 15 kilometres are available for visitors to explore.
The long Lakeshore Trail is for seasoned hikers; rugged
hills, beaver meadows, hardwood forest, cedar-black
ash swamps and spectacular lookouts are some of the
delights of this hiking trail. Canoeists can join the
trail from various points around the shoreline.
Ski Trails
Silent Lake Park offers over 40 kilometres of cross
country ski trails which are groomed and trackset each
winter. There are warm up huts along the trails and
a primitive camping area with basic facilities.
To contact Silent Lake Provincial Park directly, call (613) 339-2807
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