ABOUT

The historic French River is an important part of Canada’s story

Originally settled by Canada’s First Nations people, then established as a trading route for trapping and logging, it has since become a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. The French River Lodge was first established in 1923 and has hosted multiple generations of visitors. Under New Ownership in 2020, we proudly continue to welcome you to join us for the many adventures that await you here.  Our operating season is from mid May to mid October.  We have many new and exciting things planned…..

We are located on a private 16-acre island, on the Lower French River Delta, where the mighty French and Pickerel Rivers meet as they flow into Georgian Bay.  The island itself sits in Ox Bay, surrounded by pristine waters amidst the protected heritage of the French River Provincial Park. Just a 3.5 hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area will take you from frenzy to serenity.  Your worries will fade away on the short taxi boat ride to the island.  In keeping with the desire to ‘unplug’, our resort runs on a solar-powered system. Electricity is available 24 hours a day, supplemented by generators when needed.

The Main Lodge is the heart of the resort.  Here you will find our spacious outdoor sun deck overlooking the water and breathtaking beauty of the area. Enjoy an ice cream, fresh baked cookies & muffins or a relaxing drink on the deck as you soak up the sun and retell fish stories to our guests and neighbours.  Or perhaps you’d prefer a card game tournament, ping pong game or pick up a book or magazine to from our library to pass some time.  Wi-fi and satellite TV are available if you need to (grudgingly) keep contact with the outside world.  

The Lodge Store is located inside the Main Lodge.  We carry those essentials (or forgotten items from home), snacks and souvenirs to complete your stay with us!  We also serve as an outpost and have Day Use/Shower Facilities for campers using the Provincial Park.Guest accommodation consists of a number of self-contained housekeeping cottages.  All the cottages have full kitchen facilities & Propane BBQ, 3 piece bathroom, separate sleeping and sitting areas. Bed linens and towels are supplied for your use at the beginning of your stay.  These rustic cottages are located on the waterfront and have docks for boating and water activities or lounging.  Boats/motors and non-motorized watercraft are available for rent at an additional charge.

The area is known for its abundance of fish.  Walleye (pickerel), bass, muskie are just some of the species of sport fish found in these waters. For those fishers who want to keep their catch, we have a Fish Cleaning Hut at the water’s edge for you to clean your fish for dinner or package it to take home.  

There are hiking trails located on the island should you wish to explore the terrain on foot. Please note that these trails are hilly in places and may be more challenging for some guests. And of course, you can choose to paddle the waterways once travelled by the early settlers.  Whatever your choice, the French River Lodge offers options and beauty second to none!

Whether you’re a long-time guest or looking to for a new experience, we can’t wait to have you visit us soon!

Craig Purcell & Jean Wong