Charleston Lake Provincial Park
A 2,596-hectare Canadian Shield park about 90 minutes south of Ottawa. 236 campsites across four campgrounds, yurts, and backcountry canoe-in sites. The Blue Mountain Trail reaches the highest point in Leeds & Grenville County with views to the Adirondacks. Known for fishing, rocky outcrops, and rich biodiversity. Open mid-May to mid-October.
Features
About Charleston Lake Provincial Park
Charleston Lake Provincial Park is a 2,596-hectare Natural Environment park in the Canadian Shield, about 90 minutes south of Ottawa near Lansdowne. It's where the rugged granite landscape of the Shield extends into eastern Ontario — rocky outcrops, granite ridges, and deep clear water.
The park was established in 1976 and is known for its fishing, hiking, and backcountry canoe camping. It's a step up in wilderness feel from the closer parks like Rideau River or Fitzroy, without the long drive to Algonquin.
Camping
The park has roughly 236 campsites across four campgrounds:
Bayside (83 sites)
Close to the beach and day-use area. Mix of electrical and non-electrical sites.
Shady Ridge (58 sites)
Home to the park's 4 yurts — each sleeps up to 6 and comes with futon bunk beds, table and chairs, propane BBQ, and fire grill.
Meadowlands (87 sites)
Mix of electrical and non-electrical sites.
Backcountry (10 sites)
Small clusters of canoe-in sites on the lake — paddle out and set up camp on your own point.
Things to Do
Hiking
- Blue Mountain Trail (~10 km round trip) — The highlight. Climbs to the highest point in Leeds & Grenville County with 360-degree panoramic views, including the Adirondack Mountains on a clear day
- Several shorter trails through Canadian Shield terrain
Swimming
Sandy beach in the day-use area with a designated swim zone.
Paddling & Fishing
Canoe and kayak rentals available at the Discovery Centre (mid-June to Labour Day, 8 AM – 8 PM). Boat launch on site. Charleston Lake is well regarded for bass and trout fishing.
Nature Programs
The Discovery Centre runs Natural Heritage Education programs — guided hikes, amphitheatre talks, and kids' activities through the summer.
Visitor Information
- Season: Mid-May to mid-October
- Fees: Non-electrical sites from ~$39/night, electrical from ~$44/night. Yurts priced separately
- Reservations: Book online at Ontario Parks
- Facilities: Comfort stations with showers, laundry, dump station, playground, picnic shelters, fish cleaning stations, barrier-free access
Getting There
- From Ottawa: Head south on Highway 416, then Highway 29 and local roads toward Lansdowne. About 126 km / 90 minutes
- Address: 148 Woodvale Road, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0
Information may change. If you spot anything outdated or incorrect, let us know.
Information may change. Please verify details on the official website before visiting.
Details
148 Woodvale Road, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0
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