A Lake with Deep Roots

Charleston Lake, located in Frontenac County, Ontario, is not only a paddler’s dream—it’s a place with deep geological and cultural roots. The lake sits on a mix of granite and sandstone bedrock, part of the Frontenac Axis, where northern and southern ecosystems meet. This mix of terrain shapes the lake’s rugged shoreline and supports a wide range of wildlife.

For centuries, the area was home to Indigenous peoples, with the Mississaugas occupying the region by the 1700s. After the Crawford Purchase in 1783, European settlers arrived, building farms and small communities. By 1890, the Charleston Lake Association was founded—making it the oldest lake association in Canada. A dam was later built at the lake’s outlet, first powering a grist mill and eventually a hydroelectric plant.

In 1957, Charleston Lake Provincial Park was established to protect this ecologically rich region. Today, it offers paddlers, hikers, and campers the chance to explore its forests, wetlands, and more than 100 scenic islands—many of which are protected through ongoing conservation efforts.

TIP: If you're a photographer, you'll want to bring your fancy camera on this trip! I normally just use my phone, but I was so happy to have my Canon with me for this one! 

Kayak Picks for This Trip

For our Charleston Lake paddle, I was in the Hurricane Sojourn 146 with rudder, and Scott paddled the Delta 12.10.

If you're heading out for a few hours to explore the bays and islands, a 12-foot kayak like the Delta 12.10 is an excellent choice—lightweight, stable, and easy to maneuver through narrow inlets like Slim Bay.

I brought the Sojourn 146 because we were also paddling the Thousand Islands later on this trip, and I wanted the performance and gear capacity of a full touring kayak.

Though it isn't something I needed for Charleston Lake, it definitely came in handy crossing bigger open sections like Runnings Bay. Having a longer kayak helps you cross it faster, and the rudder just gives you that extra steering capability without having to rely as much on your paddles. Plus, if I’m being honest, I love having a longer kayak when paddling with Scott. He’s a stronger paddler, so the Sojourn helps me keep pace without working twice as hard.

Quick Tips:
✔️ For casual day paddles: 12 ft is perfect
✔️ Crossing open water or touring longer distances? A 14-foot kayak with a rudder is a great companion
✔️ Paddling with someone stronger? A longer kayak can help you keep pace with less effort

A Georgian Bay Vibe, Right in Eastern Ontario

Ever since 2017, Charleston Lake had been on my paddling bucket list. With its rugged Canadian Shield rock formations and tranquil blue waters, it reminded me so much of Georgian Bay. Back when I worked in real estate, I’d catch glimpses of the stunning lakefront cottages popping up on the market—each one more beautiful than the last. I knew one day, I had to experience it from the water.

A September Paddle to Remember

Last September, the stars finally aligned. We launched our kayaks from Boathouse Cove at the end of Charleston Lake Road on the Provincial Park side of the lake. You can find it on Google Maps as the "fish cleaning station". It’s just one access point on this massive body of water, and honestly, you can’t go wrong anywhere you choose to paddle. The park entrance required a day pass, which was easy to grab as you came into the park for $17 (as of 2024), and the boat launch had a dock and lots of shaded parking.

The Route: A Peaceful, Wildlife-Rich Paddle

We paddled out of Boathouse Cove and turned north, circling past Why Island and Because Island, haha, yes, you read that right! Whoever named those deserves an award for cheeky creativity!

We rounded Soaf Island and ventured across the open water of Runnings Bay. That’s when we spotted a juvenile loon floating nearby. Camera in hand, I captured what would become my best loon shots ever. He was just shedding his down and growing in his adult feathers—an absolute showstopper. Neither Scott nor I had ever seen anything like this before! I still treasure that moment! 

Cliffs, Bridges, and Slim Bay Serenity

After the loon’s performance, we skirted along impressive rock cliffs before arriving at Slim Bay, which I had read about before we arrived. We ducked under a walking bridge (clearly marked for motorless boats only—yay!) and were surprised by how deep this bay stretched, about 1.5 km into the wilderness.

We explored Mud Bay and around Duck Island, which was teeming with fish, frogs, ducks, and graceful blue herons. We barely saw another soul. It felt like our own private slice of paradise!

Final Stretch: Islands, Exposed Rock, and Future Dreams

On the paddle back, we weaved through more of the lake’s iconic islands, each one just as photogenic as the last, with exposed rock and windswept trees. The whole journey took about 2.5 hours, though I could’ve stayed all day. With kayak-accessible campsites scattered across the islands with 360-degree views, this lake is a dream for anyone looking to try kayak camping with unbeatable views.

TIP: Be sure to have your phone with GPS or a map on you. It can be easy to get turned around, as many of the islands look the same!

While You're in the Area

Charleston Lake is worth the trip on its own, but if you have a little extra time, there are some great spots nearby that can round out your adventure:

Rock Dunder Hiking Trail
We hiked this one before our paddle, and wow—the views were EPIC. The summit overlooks the Rideau waterway and gives you that perfect panoramic shot. Highly recommend starting your day here if you're up for a little climb.

The Junction Family Restaurant – Seeleys Bay
We didn’t get the chance to stop in this time, but I’ve heard amazing things—especially about their pizza! It's got that laidback, friendly small-town vibe that just hits right after a day outdoors.

The Green Gecko – Lyndhurst
This quirky, colourful little shop is full of unique finds and gifts. Honestly, the whole town of Lyndhurst is super charming and definitely worth wandering around.

Eastern Ontario Rock Shop – Athens
If you’re into gems, crystals, or cool geological finds, this shop is a fun little detour. Athens is just a short drive away and has a few hidden gems of its own.

Gananoque & the Thousand Islands
If you’re already in the Charleston Lake area, you’re only a short drive from Gananoque and the Thousand Islands. Whether you’re into scenic boat tours, more paddling, or local dining, it’s always worth a visit. (Check out this blog about my 5 Must-Paddle Spots in the Thousand Islands!)

Until Next Time, Charleston Lake

From the mirror-still waters of Slim Bay to the cheekily named islands and dramatic rock cliffs, Charleston Lake gave us everything we were hoping for, and more! It's a place where nature feels untouched, where loons glide beside your kayak, and where every bend in the shoreline invites exploration.

Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just dipping your paddle in for the first time, this lake offers a perfect mix of serenity, wildlife, and stunning geology. We barely scratched the surface on this trip, but that’s the magic of Charleston Lake. There’s always another bay to discover, another island to circle, another quiet moment waiting just around the point.

We’ll be back, paddle in hand, ready for the next chapter at Charleston Lake!