canoe near mazinaw rock

Water safety at Bon Echo

The famous Mazinaw Lake at Bon Echo Provincial Park attracts tons of visitors every year.

We love to see our visitors enjoy beginner friendly canoe routes or swimming in Joeperry Lake and Mazinaw Lake, however we want you to partake in water activities safely.

Here are some precautions to ensure you explore Bon Echo safely:

Follow park rules, especially at Mazinaw Rock

Cliff jumping is not permitted. It’s very dangerous and can cause serious injuries or worse.

mazinaw rock

Cliff jumping is against the park rules — including jumps at Mazinaw Rock — and can result in hefty fines.

How do I get to the rock?

Swimming is not the way! Rent a canoe or bring your own. Don’t forget to wear a PFD.

If you rent from our canoe concession, PFDs and a safety kit are included with the rental.

Please note the interpretive boat tour is not available this season.

Stay safe at the Narrows

The Narrows is a busy spot for boat traffic.

Review boating regulations before you even think about getting in your vessel. The maximum speed limit within 30 m of shore is 10 km/h.

narrows

Fishing and swimming are prohibited at the Narrows due to boat traffic. Please obey signage.

Tips for canoers and kayakers

We cannot stress this enough: pay attention to water and weather conditions, especially on Mazinaw Lake.

The lake can be calm on the south side and windy on the north side, or vice versa. Stop and check the conditions before venturing out, and finding the water is too rough.

Do you need to be at the boat launch?

Use our boat launches only if you have a boat to launch.

boat launch

Swimming is not permitted (nor safe) at the boat launches. Don’t block the area for boaters, as they require space for launching and removing of their boats.

Hey swimmers!

Please keep in mind that it is your responsibility to supervise yourself, children, and non-swimmer friends.

Wear a PFD (especially if you’re not a strong swimmer); it looks good on you and can be a lifesaver!

beach

Alcohol is only permitted  on registered campsites, not on the boats or the beach.

Boaters, canoers, and kayakers: please stay out of the designated swimming areas for safety reasons.

Learn more about water safety at Ontario Parks!