Glacial Lake Agassiz, which covered much of Northwestern Ontario and Southern Manitoba has left in its wake dozens of lakes and connecting waterways, one of which is Blue Lake. Special geological conditions have combined to give Blue Lake some special features: water so clear you can see the bottom of the lake at a depth of six metres (20 feet), and an abundance of fine sand on a beautiful beach.

Surrounding the lake is a boreal forest, known for its variety and beauty. Walk through the stands of tall jack pine, red pine, black spruce, poplar and white birch - home to many bird species. Spot the ruffed grouse and spruce grouse, flicker and hairy woodpecker, as well as animals of the forest such as red fox, squirrels, chipmunks and hare. Hike through the forest past gardens of delicate star flowers and lady's slippers, and patches of wild blueberries and red bunchberries.

Stop by the Visitor Centre located in an old log cabin near the campground to view displays of plant, rock and animal specimens. Sign up for other interpretive programs including environmental games and conducted hikes, provided by park naturalists.

Focus your activity on the water to make the most of your vacation. Splash in the sparkling waves, gently skim along the surface with fins and snorkel, or strap on some scuba gear and explore the 27 metre (85 feet) depth of the lake.

A playground on the beach will amuse the children for hours. Bring buckets and shovels so kids of all ages can build their sand castles on the beach.

Launch your boat from the ramp in the park, or rent a boat or canoe from the nearby store. Ask park staff for information on the best fishing spots and canoe routes in the area. Cruise through Blue Lake's numerous connecting waterways while fishing for walleye, lake trout, northern pike, muskie or bass. Water skiing or wind-surfing make for a day of exhilarating fun.

Camp at one of 196 tent and trail sites - 104 with electrical outlets. The beach, firewood, a shower building and comfort station are all nearby. Each site has a parking space and a picnic table as well as an individual fireplace for barbecueing your day's catch.

After a satisfying lunch, set out on the trails that take you past much of the natural landscape of the park. Join park naturalists on conducted nature hikes or venture out on your own.

Park Class: Natural Environment
Park Size: 2314 ha
Camping Dates: Mid May - Mid September
Services & Activities:
Showers, flush toilets, laundromat, swimming, boat launch, Nature/Visitor Centre, natural/cultural programs, nature/walking trails, alcohol ban May Long Weekend
Rentals:
PFDs, canoes, kayaks, tents, picnic shelters

Blue Lake Provincial Park is located on Highway 647 nine kilometres (5 miles) north of the Trans-Canada Highway and Vermilion Bay and 48 kilometres northwest of Dryden. For more information call Ontario Parks at 1-888-668-7275 or call the park office direct at (807) 227-2601 (May to October) or (807) 223-7535 (November to April). You can also visit the Ontario Parks website.

Use the links showing here to locate all members of our association with operations in or around Blue Lake Provincial Park. Go ahead and start clicking your way to a wilderness adventures, vacations, and outdoor experiences that have few rivals in North America! Here's a map of Blue Lake Provincial Park.

If you want additional information on Northwestern Ontario, the Sunset Country Travel Association produces a Free Travel Guide that includes a poster-sized map of the area showing the locations of Ontario accommodations. You can order your free copy here or call us toll free at 1-800-665-7567. Enjoy!

Municipality of Machin (Vermilion Bay) [Website]
Box 249, 75 Spruce Street Vermilion Bay, Ontario, Canada P0V 2V0
807-227-2633