Canada’s Boreal Forest Region stretches from the edge of the Yukon in the north, down and across the country all of the way to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Ecologically rich and diverse, the boreal forest ecosystem captures the imagination with its towering trees, shimmering lakes, and breathtaking scenery.
It can be hard to choose where to start exploring a landscape this expansive. But for travelers looking for a quintessential boreal experience, Nagagamisis is hard to beat.
Here are 5 reasons why this hidden gem is worth the trek!
1. Relax on Nagagamisis Lake
In Cree, Nagagamisis means “lake with fine, sandy shores,” and a trip to the water’s edge shows how the park earned the name. Here, visitors can find ample space for picnics, including shaded spots, a full-size beach volleyball court, and a place to play horseshoes.
Looking to get in the water? The park has a buoyed area in the lake, perfect for family swimming!
At 15 km long, Nagagamisis Lake has lots of shoreline to explore! Boaters and paddling enthusiasts can also explore the waterways in Nagagamisis, including the motorboat-free Park Lake along the park’s southeast edge.
The park is equipped with a boat launch and rents motorboats, canoes, kayaks, paddle boat, and SUP for visitors who don’t have their own equipment.
Nagagamisis is one of 70 parks that participates in the ParkSmart program. Visitors can borrow a personal flotation device (PFD) for free during their visit.
2. Fantastic fishing
Nagagamisis is an angler’s dream! Lines cast in Nagagamisis and Park lakes can bring in Walleye, Northern Pike, Lake Whitefish, and Yellow Perch.
The park not only offers a fish cleaning hut, but also hosts a fish smoker to cook the day’s catch!
3. Sunsets, stars, and more!
Nagamisis lies just outside of sunset country — but that doesn’t make the sunsets any less grand! The lakefront offers unobstructed views of spectacular sunsets.
But after dark is when the real show starts.
Because of the park’s remote location, the dark night skies here make it the perfect location to stargaze, catch a meteor show, or even take in the Northern Lights!
4. Birding and beyond
The boreal forest is home to hundreds of animal species, including over 100 varieties of songbirds. Visitors to Nagagamisis are treated to the songs of visiting birds and may often spot the forest’s larger residents like moose, while the elusive caribou are a much rarer sight.
In July and August, families looking to explore the flora and fauna of the area can pick up a Discovery Activity Book at their Exploration Station. Discovery staff equip visitors with materials and knowledge to help them explore the park, and observe plants and animals.
To get a sense of the incredible diversity that this area is home to, check out our story about Nagagamisis camper, Edith, who spent a summer photographing the local birds.
5. Off the grid… light
There’s no time like the summer to get away from everything, unplug, and recharge. If the idea of rustic camping is appealing, but you’d still like to be able to have a hot shower, Nagagamisis Provincial Park is the place for you!
Get all the benefits of being immersed in nature, while having access to some creature comforts like comfort stations and a park store.
Planning a visit?
Tucked away just over two hours north of Wawa and Lake Superior, or four hours northwest of Timmins, Nagagamisis Provincial Park is a great way to explore and appreciate Ontario’s boreal landscape.
Nagagamisis is open for reservations until September 22, 2024.
