Information
Landmark: Bellhaven ParkCity: Red Bank
Country: USA New Jersey
Continent: North America
Bellhaven Park, Red Bank, USA New Jersey, North America
Bellhaven Park is a well-established campground and resort situated in Trent Lakes, near Bobcaygeon, Ontario, renowned for its picturesque location on the shores of Pigeon Lake, part of the Trent-Severn Waterway system. This location provides guests with a serene natural setting characterized by waterfront views, access to lake activities, and a peaceful environment perfect for family vacations, seasonal stays, and outdoor recreation.
Location and Setting
Bellhaven Park is located at 544 County Road 36 in the township of Trent Lakes, placing it in a prime area within the Kawartha Lakes region, known for its abundant lakes, waterways, and natural beauty. The proximity to Pigeon Lake allows visitors direct access to water-based activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The park is easily accessible from nearby towns, with Bobcaygeon being the closest community offering additional amenities and attractions.
Accommodations
Bellhaven Park caters to a wide range of campers and vacationers with diverse accommodation options, balancing rustic camping with more comfortable rental units.
Overnight Campsites: The park provides 11 overnight sites equipped with water and electrical hookups, suitable for recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 27 feet in length. These sites are ideal for short-term visitors or weekend campers who want convenient access to utilities while enjoying the outdoors.
Unserviced Tent Sites: For those who prefer a traditional camping experience, several waterfront tent sites are available without hookups, offering a closer connection to nature.
Seasonal Sites: There are 120 fully serviced seasonal sites where campers can stay for extended periods, typically throughout the spring, summer, and early fall seasons. These sites foster a vibrant camping community, with neighbors forming a friendly and social atmosphere.
Vacation Rentals: For guests seeking greater comfort, Bellhaven Park offers five vacation rental units. These units are located on lakeside sites with private views and include amenities such as outdoor fire pits and picnic tables. The rentals provide a home-away-from-home feel, ideal for families or groups who prefer not to camp in tents or RVs. However, pets are not allowed in these rental units.
Amenities and Facilities
Bellhaven Park boasts a comprehensive set of amenities designed to enhance the camping experience, catering to both relaxation and active recreation:
Heated Swimming Pool: Open seasonally from late June through early September, the pool offers a refreshing swimming option for guests of all ages.
Sandy Beach Area: The waterfront beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly water play.
Recreation Hall: This indoor space features entertainment options such as a pool table, table tennis (ping pong), and darts, providing guests with leisure activities irrespective of the weather.
Sports Facilities: Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor sports amenities including a baseball diamond, basketball court, volleyball court, and horseshoe pits, encouraging active and social recreation.
Children’s Playground: Equipped with slides, climbing structures, and other play equipment, the playground ensures younger visitors have a safe and fun environment.
Convenience Store: On-site, a store supplies basic camping essentials, snacks, and other necessities, reducing the need for guests to leave the park for minor purchases.
Coin-Operated Laundry: Facilities for washing and drying clothes are available, providing convenience especially for seasonal campers.
Boat Launch and Slips: The park includes a boat launch area and docking slips, enabling guests to bring their boats and easily access Pigeon Lake’s waterways.
Activities and Community Life
Bellhaven Park emphasizes community and organized events throughout the camping season to enrich the guest experience:
The park’s social committee organizes a variety of events and activities geared toward all age groups. These can include movie nights, game nights, family fun days, holiday celebrations, and sporting tournaments.
Seasonal programming encourages interaction among campers, creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that is often cited as a highlight by returning visitors.
The location’s natural surroundings invite guests to engage in fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife observation, all within easy reach.
Policies and Practical Information
Pet Policy: Well-behaved small to medium-sized pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure safety and respect for other campers.
Security: Bellhaven Park maintains an electronic gate system for controlled access, ensuring a secure environment for guests.
Operating Season: The park is typically open from mid-May to early October, corresponding with the warmer months and the prime camping season in Ontario.
Reservations: Especially during the peak summer months, advance reservations are recommended for overnight stays to secure preferred sites.
Nearby Attractions
The park’s proximity to Bobcaygeon allows visitors to explore a quaint town with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
Lock 32 on the Trent-Severn Waterway is nearby, offering historical and scenic interest.
The broader Kawartha Lakes region is known for golf courses, hiking trails, fishing spots, and boating opportunities, making Bellhaven Park an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summary
Bellhaven Park provides a comprehensive and welcoming camping experience tailored to a wide range of visitors-from tent campers and RV travelers to families seeking rental accommodations. Its lakeside location, well-maintained amenities, and active community programming make it a preferred destination in the Kawartha Lakes area. Whether guests are looking for peaceful nature immersion, social interaction, or recreational activities, Bellhaven Park offers a versatile and enjoyable setting framed by the natural beauty of Pigeon Lake and its surroundings.