Swim Clear Water and Climb the Dorset Lookout Together
Why Rent On Lake of Bays
About 190 kilometres north of Toronto, Lake of Bays claims the title of Muskoka’s second biggest lake, with 170 kilometres of natural shoreline and waters that drop to 70 metres at their deepest. The charming villages of Dwight, Baysville, and Dorset ring the lake, each with their own personality: Dwight for its proximity to Algonquin Park’s western entrance, Baysville for its artisan character, and Dorset for the fire tower hike that rewards you with one of the finest views in all of Ontario.
The Lake That Earns Its Name
Lake of Bays has a geography that rewards exploration. Its numerous inlets, island clusters, and open reaches mean that no two boat trips across the water feel the same. Trout, bass, and pike are the primary fishing targets, and conditions on the lake are excellent for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and swimming throughout the summer. The Oxtongue River feeds the lake from the west, and canoe routes from that direction pass through some of Muskoka’s least-visited backcountry. In winter, groomed snowmobile trails connect the lake to the broader Haliburton Highlands network, and cross-country skiing and ice fishing keep winter visitors very happily occupied.
A Lakehouse That Puts You in the Story
Staying in a Lake of Bays rental means choosing a base that belongs to the landscape rather than sitting alongside it. Waterfront cottages here range from warm, wood-panelled cabins to larger luxury homes with full kitchens, wraparound decks, private docks, and hot tubs that face open water. The setting, pine forest right to the shore and a lake that catches the light at every angle, makes a Lake of Bays rental one of Muskoka’s genuinely great experiences. Properties that sleep ten or more are available for family reunions and multi-generational trips.
What To Know
Some of the most desirable properties on Lake of Bays are tucked down long private lanes that are unpaved and narrow. They are beautiful to arrive at and completely worth it, but if you are travelling with a low-clearance vehicle or renting a large motorhome, check the access details with your host before booking. Most hosts are happy to advise, and the slightly remote feel of those properties is usually a feature rather than a flaw.
Lake of Bays has something that even the most famous Muskoka lakes occasionally lack: space. On a clear July morning, paddling across the eastern bay with the mist still on the water and the Dorset fire tower visible on the ridge, you will understand why families come back here summer after summer.
- Surface area (km)
- 70.53
- Max depth (m)
- 70
- Elevation (m)
- 341
- Shoreline length (km)
- 170
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Hiking
- Ice Skating
- Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Lake of Bays
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake of Bays has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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It depends on the beach. At Dwight Beach, the water passed quality tests 60-95% of the time, while at Hillside Beach, it passed at least 95% of the time. Check the latest water sample results before swimming.
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Lake of Bays is a popular destination because it has over 100 lakes to explore. It offers various recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and scenic boat tours, as well as attractions such as the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower and Dwight Beach. The area also features cultural sites like the Lake of Bays Marine Museum and local artists’ studios.
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The fishing season for lake trout in Lake of Bays, Ontario, is from January 1 to September 30. The catch limits are 2 for Sport licence holders and 1 for Conservation licence holders, with no more than one lake trout greater than 56 centimeters from September 1 to September 30. There are no size limits for the rest of the season.
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Dwight Beach at Lake of Bays is best for families. It is a much-loved beach that offers a pleasant experience. Nearby bakeries add to its appeal, making it a great spot for a family day out.
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Towns near Lake of Bays that offer amenities like shops, cafes, and restaurants include Huntsville, Dwight, Dorset, and Baysville. These towns provide charming shops, cozy cafes, and gourmet restaurants for residents and visitors. They are located in the northeast corner of the Muskoka region, making them accessible and convenient for those in the area.
