A Lakeside Community Steeped in Spirit and Connection

Tucked along the shores of Lake Scugog, the Township of Scugog offers a serene blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and close-knit community living. Anchored by the town of Port Perry, this rural township in Durham Region draws in families, retirees, and creatives alike with its heritage downtown, scenic trails, and strong sense of place. Whether you’re looking for peaceful lakefront living or a vibrant small-town lifestyle, Scugog welcomes you with warmth and charm.

History

Scugog sits on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. This land has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years and continues to be a place of cultural significance and ongoing stewardship. The township itself was formally established in 1856, with early European settlement focused around agriculture and trade. The construction of a dam in Lindsay in the 1800s transformed a marsh into the lake we now know as Lake Scugog, shaping the township’s geography and economy. Today, Scugog honours its Indigenous roots and settler heritage while continuing to grow as a respectful and inclusive community.

Population

Scugog has a population of approximately 22,500 people, with many residents living in Port Perry or in small hamlets and rural properties throughout the township. The community is known for its strong volunteer spirit and neighbourly atmosphere, where residents are often involved in local events, farmers markets, and town initiatives. Scugog offers a peaceful pace of life, drawing people who appreciate nature, heritage, and a sense of belonging.

Location

Located in the northern part of Durham Region, Scugog borders Kawartha Lakes to the north and Oshawa to the south. It’s about a 20-minute drive north of Highway 401, and roughly 45–60 minutes to downtown Toronto, depending on traffic. While surrounded by rolling farmland and forest, Scugog maintains convenient access to larger urban centres. Port Perry is the township’s main hub, with its historic downtown nestled right along the lakefront.

Real Estate

Scugog offers a variety of real estate options, from heritage homes in Port Perry to sprawling rural properties, custom-built homes, and lakefront cottages. Many buyers are drawn to the peaceful setting and larger lots, as well as the opportunity to live close to the water or with views of open countryside. The real estate market is generally competitive but more accessible than many parts of the GTA, making it an appealing choice for families and retirees looking for quality of life.

Transportation

While public transportation is limited in Scugog, Durham Region Transit offers limited bus service in the area, including connections to other towns and cities in the region. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, especially for commuting or running errands outside of Port Perry. The township’s well-maintained roads and scenic drives make travel relatively easy. GO Transit stations in Oshawa and Whitby are the nearest options for regional train service.

Government

The Township of Scugog is governed by a mayor and council and is part of Durham Region. It also works closely with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, particularly around matters of land use, culture, and environmental stewardship. Local governance is active in supporting small business growth, preserving heritage, and maintaining infrastructure while keeping the township’s rural and natural character intact.

Shopping

Port Perry’s historic downtown offers a delightful shopping experience with its mix of independently owned boutiques, local artisan shops, home décor stores, and unique cafés. The walkable main street, lined with heritage buildings, invites residents and visitors to browse at a leisurely pace. In addition to specialty retailers, the town provides essential services and conveniences like grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, and major banking branches, ensuring residents don’t have to travel far for their daily needs.

Recreation & Parks

Life in Scugog is closely tied to the outdoors, with Lake Scugog serving as a focal point for recreation year-round. Residents enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, snowmobiling, and skating, depending on the season. The waterfront trail system, Palmer Park, and several conservation areas offer scenic walking paths, picnic spots, and green space for family outings and community events. The Scugog Community Recreation Centre provides space for sports, fitness classes, and programs for all ages. Cultural and heritage sites, like the Scugog Shores Museum Village and the nearby Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation Cultural Centre, add further depth to the township’s recreational and educational offerings.

Schools

Scugog is served by the Durham District School Board and the Durham Catholic District School Board, with several elementary schools and Port Perry High School offering quality education within the township. For post-secondary options, residents typically travel to institutions in Oshawa, such as Durham College or Ontario Tech University. Families benefit from the supportive school communities and programs offered locally.

The Spirit of Scugog

Living in Scugog means choosing a lifestyle that balances beauty, history, and belonging. With its lakeside charm, engaged community, and strong ties to the land, it’s a place where nature and neighbourhood meet. Whether you’re raising a family, retiring, or simply seeking a slower pace, Scugog offers the kind of community you’ll be proud to call home.