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Samuel de Champlain

Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park

Biking

Cycling is a popular activity on the main park roads.

Birding

A variety of songbirds, such as warblers, and other avian species such as Bald Eagles, hawks and Great Blue Herons are regularly sighted in the park.

Boating

Motorboats are permitted on Moore Lake, however a maximum horsepower rating of 10 HP is in effect.

Canoeing

Moore Lake and the upriver section of the Amable du Fond River provide quiet canoeing opportunities to explore and view wildlife.

At Long Lake, you can paddle beside large cliffs while enjoying the serenity of a motor-free environment.

The Mattawa River Provincial Park and Canoe Route extends from Trout Lake, near North Bay and ends in the community of Mattawa, passing through the centre of Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park. The portion of river from Pimisi Bay to Samuel de Champlain offers the most challenging rapids and also some of the most spectacular scenery including beautiful Parreseux Falls.

Discovery Program

The park’s natural heritage education staff provides interactive programming suitable for all ages. Guided hikes, children’s programs, spirit nights, musical performances and campfire sing-alongs are just a few of the programs provided during the months of July and August. Visitors can also try their hand at paddling a replica Voyageur canoe.  The Mattawa River Visitor Centre showcases the area’s natural and human history with a variety of exhibits and houses a large birchbark freighter canoe.

Fishing

A variety of fish species can be found in Moore Lake including Large and Smallmouth Bass, Walleye (Pickerel), Northern Pike and muskellunge.

Hiking

Etienne System Trails: four loops ranging in length from 2.5 to 9 km; strenuous
Discover scenic views of the Mattawa River while traversing challenging terrain.

Kag Trail: 2.5 km loop; difficult with steep climbs
This trail travels through several ecosystems, including tall majestic Red Pine forests, Gem Lake and oak highlands.

Wabashkiki Trail: 1 km loop; easy
Explore a marsh and its resident wildlife on this trail and boardwalk set on a peninsula in the middle of Moore Lake.

Forestry Research Trail: 1 – 2 km loop; easy
This trails winds its way through active forestry research plots. A trail guide is available at the Visitor Centre.

Swimming

The refreshing, clear waters of Moore Lake provide a relaxing way to spend a warm summer day. Small camper beaches are located in both Jingwakoki and Babawasse Campgrounds. The Bagwa day use area also has a large sandy beach. A free Personal Floatation Device (PFD) loan program is available at the Park Store.