Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s lake country, Bass Lake is a 1,000-acre recreational gem just west of the town of Orillia and within easy reach of Toronto. Located in the southeast corner of Oro-Medonte Township, this lake was formed over 10,000 years ago from the remnants of post-glacial Lake Algonquin.
The area is punctuated by the beautiful Bass Lake Provincial Park, which sits on the western shore of the lake. Here, visitors can enjoy a sandy beach, swimming areas, and picnic facilities, along with a children’s playground and hiking trails that follow the shoreline. The park also features a large campground with electrical hook-ups, fire pits, and picnic tables, as well as well-maintained washrooms and a general store for all camping needs.
For water enthusiasts, Bass Lake offers a boat launch and docking facilities, with boat rentals available. The lake is renowned for its fishing, with abundant populations of bass, pike, and trout. Nearby, the town of Orillia provides easy access to additional amenities and supplies.
In the summer, visitors can engage in boating, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and hiking on the park’s trails. The nearby North River, which flows into Bass Lake and then to Matchedash Bay, adds another layer of natural beauty and outdoor adventure to the area. Whether seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Bass Lake and its surrounding attractions offer something for everyone.
- Surface area (km)
- 1.1
- Max depth (m)
- 12
- Elevation (m)
- 242
- Shoreline length (km)
- 4.07
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
- Jet Skiing
Nearby amenities
When you find yourself near Bass Lake Provincial Park in Ontario, a host of exciting points of interest awaits your exploration. Just a short 10-minute drive leads you to the charming town of Orillia, where a variety of dining options cater to every palate. From cozy cafes to diverse restaurants, you will discover cuisines that reflect the vibrant culinary scene of the area.
For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, convenience stores and grocery outlets are conveniently located within a mere five minutes from the park, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. Fuel stations are also readily accessible, allowing you to keep your adventure going without a hitch.
If you are a sports enthusiast, the Orillia Fairgrounds is a must-visit, hosting a multitude of events that infuse fun and excitement into your stay. For a unique entertainment experience, Casino Rama is located about 30 minutes away. This lively venue offers gaming, delicious dining options, and live performances that promise to keep you entertained well into the evening.
History buffs will appreciate the nearby historical landmarks, with both Discovery Harbour and Saint Marie among the Hurons accessible within a 30-minute drive. Discovery Harbour showcases intriguing historic ships and delves into Ontario’s maritime past, while Saint Marie among the Hurons presents a well-crafted reconstruction of a 17th-century French Jesuit mission, allowing you to step back in time.
Wildlife enthusiasts should not miss out on Wye Marsh, a captivating wetland area rich with wildlife, including the majestic trumpeter swans. It also features hiking trails and educational programs that make for an enriching outdoor experience. Springwater Provincial Park is another nearby destination that offers scenic views and an array of outdoor activities, complementing your time spent near Bass Lake. With so much to see and do, your visit to this enchanting area promises to be both memorable and inspiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bass Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, Bass Lake is not always safe for swimming. The lake can experience water quality issues, including algal blooms, and in some cases, it may not pass water quality tests, making it unsafe for contact activities like swimming.
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Bass Lake is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing, hiking trails, and warm waters. It offers various water sports like water skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing, as well as swimming and kayaking. The area also has extensive biking and hiking trails, including those in the surrounding Sierra National Forest.
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The provided sources do not specify the fishing season and catch limits for bass in Bass Lake, Ontario. For accurate information, you need to check the specific fishing regulations for the Fisheries Management Zone (FMZ) where Bass Lake is located. These regulations can be found in the 2025 Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary or on the Ontario government’s website.
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There are no lifeguards on the beaches at Bass Lake. You swim at your own risk. Swimming areas are marked but not monitored by lifeguards.
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The town closest to Bass Lake, Ontario, Canada, is Orillia. Bass Lake Provincial Park is approximately a 10-minute drive west of Orillia. The park is located in the Oro-Medonte Township, just outside of Orillia.