Ontario Provincial Parks

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is located near Woodview, Ontario, and protects one of the most important Indigenous cultural sites in Canada. The park is home to the largest known concentration of Indigenous rock carvings in the country, often referred to as the “Teaching Rocks.” These petroglyphs are carved into exposed marble bedrock and are recognized as a sacred site with deep spiritual, cultural, and historical significance.

The petroglyph site contains hundreds of carvings depicting human figures, animals, plants, and symbolic forms. Created by Indigenous peoples centuries ago, the carvings reflect knowledge systems, spiritual beliefs, and relationships with the natural world. To help preserve this fragile site, the petroglyphs are protected within a controlled enclosure, and interpretation focuses on respect, learning, and cultural awareness rather than recreation.

Beyond the petroglyphs, the park protects a representative landscape of the Kawartha Highlands, including mixed forest, exposed bedrock, and McGinnis Lake, a rare meromictic lake known for its distinctive colour and layered water structure. A short trail network allows visitors to explore the surrounding natural environment while minimizing ecological impact.

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is a non-operating, day-use park with no camping facilities. Its primary purpose is cultural protection and education, offering visitors a quiet setting to learn about Indigenous heritage and the enduring relationship between people, land, and story.

General Information

Location

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Facilities & Recreation

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is a day-use park that protects a nationally significant cultural site while offering opportunities for education and quiet outdoor exploration. Visitors check in at the park gatehouse before accessing the trails and facilities, and entry to the petroglyphs site is carefully managed to help preserve the sacred rock carvings. Photography of the carvings is not permitted, reflecting the cultural importance of the site.

The Learning Place visitor centre serves as the main orientation point and offers accessible facilities for visitors with mobility needs. Drinking water is available at the visitor centre and at other designated locations within the park. A small gift shop inside the Learning Place features Indigenous crafts, educational resources, and souvenirs that reflect the park’s cultural heritage.

Several scenic hiking trails wind through wetlands, forests, and rocky terrain, allowing visitors to explore the natural setting surrounding the cultural site. Picnic tables and shelters are located near the visitor centre and trailheads, providing convenient places to rest and enjoy a meal. Vault-style toilets are available at key locations throughout the park for visitor use.

Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park when kept on a leash, though they are not permitted inside the Learning Place or within the petroglyphs viewing building. During the winter months, vehicle access is closed, but experienced visitors may explore the park for snowshoeing or backcountry skiing, offering a quieter way to experience the landscape outside the main season.

Nearby Attractions

Kawartha Nordic Ski Club: Located near Woodview, this club offers extensive cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails through scenic landscapes, catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.

Stoney Lake Boat Cruises – Spirit of the Kawarthas: Embark on a guided cruise of Stoney Lake aboard the ‘Spirit of the Kawarthas,’ exploring the area’s rich history, picturesque islands, and waterfront cottages.

Warsaw Caves Conservation Area: Approximately 26 km northeast of Peterborough, this area features a series of limestone caves, hiking trails, and opportunities for canoeing along the Indian River.

Burleigh Falls: A natural waterfall located near the village of Burleigh Falls, offering picturesque views and a popular spot for picnicking and photography.

The Canadian Canoe Museum: Situated in Peterborough, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddled watercraft, showcasing the significance of these vessels in Canadian history and culture.

Nearby Parks

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