Backcountry Canoe & Kayak Routes Near North Bay

Discover some of Ontario’s most legendary backcountry canoe and kayak routes, all within easy reach of the city of North Bay.

From the historic French River to the vast wilderness of Temagami and the northern access points of Algonquin Park, North Bay is the ideal starting point for unforgettable multi-day paddling adventures and canoe camping trips.

North Bay is Northern Ontario’s Best Basecamp for Canoe Tripping

For experienced paddlers, choosing the right launch point is almost as important as choosing the route itself. Located at the crossroads of some of Ontario’s most iconic wilderness waterways, the city of North Bay with all of its urban amenities, is the ideal basecamp for planning, preparing for and pampering yourself and your family or friends after a backcountry canoe or kayak adventure.

Within a short drive, you can access the rugged beauty of Temagami, the historic French River, the northern access points of Algonquin Provincial Park, and countless legendary lakes and rivers that offer everything from weekend canoe camping trips to week-long wilderness expeditions. Few Northern Ontario cities provide such a variety of world-class paddling experiences adjacent to one convenient location.

Fuel up and get everything you need in North Bay to start your journey, or relax at one of our family and pet-friendly accommodations after your your trip. North Bay is at the center of unforgettable lakes, rivers, canoe camping and historic canoe routes that have made Northern Ontario a bucket-list destination for experienced canoeists and kayakers alike.

Choose Your Wilderness Trip

Algonquin Park

Many visitors are unaware how close North Bay is to Algonquin Park’s Northern Access points at Kiosk and South River’s Kawawaymog Lake, at less than one hour from both of these quieter park entries.

From the Kiosk access point, paddle the scenic waters of Kioshkokwi Lake, North Tea Lake, Manitou Lake and Maple Lake, or explore the South River corridor as it winds into Algonquin’s renowned backcountry canoe route network.

Popular with paddlers, anglers, campers and wildlife enthusiasts, these northern gateways provide access to pristine lakes, sandy beaches, exceptional fishing and breathtaking fall colours.

Launch Points:

• Kioshkokwi Lake Access Point – 75km east of North Bay 
• Kawawaymog Lake Access Point – 74km south of North Bay

Temagami

Just over an hour north of North Bay, Temagami is one of Ontario’s most iconic wilderness destinations, known for its old growth forests, wildlife sightings and remote paddling. Experience legendary canoe routes through the Temagami backcountry, including the historic Nastawgan network, the Lake Temagami and Lady Evelyn Smoothwater Park Lake systems, and the renowned route to Maple Mountain, Ontario’s highest peak within the provincial park system.

Home to ancient old-growth pine forests, crystal-clear lakes and exceptional wildlife viewing, Temagami offers unforgettable adventures for outdoor adventurers seeking an authentic Northern Ontario wilderness experience.

Launch Points:

• Lake Temagami Access Road Boat Launch – 107 km North of North Bay

French River

The Canadian Heritage-designated French River stretches for 110 km from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay. The paddling experiences on the Upper and Lower French River offer different adventures.

The Lower French River is part of a delta system that is noted for its picturesque channels, bays, shoals, islands, whitewater rapids and ocean-like vistas on Georgian Bay.  The Upper French River offers a calmer portage-free backcountry paddling experience that includes French River Provincial Park camp sites popular for fishing and local cottagers. 

With a mix of remote launch points and accessible marinas and service areas along the way, the Upper and Lower French River offers canoe routes for every skill level, from easy day paddles, to open water paddling and remote wilderness expeditions.

Launch Points:

• Upper French River:
  • From North Bay: LaVase River – Champlain Park or the North Bay Waterfront Marina
  • In Dokis First Nations: The Dokis Marina or Riverview Cottages Marina – 120 km West of North Bay
• Lower French River:
  • Hartley Bay Marina – Hwy 69, 140km Southwest of North Bay

With it’s urban amenities and proximity to the best wilderness tripping experiences in Ontario, North Bay is the quintessential home base for launching or ending your multi-day or overnight summer canoeing trip.

Backcountry Outfitters

North Bay is supported by experienced and  knowledgeable outfitters and rental companies that offer delivery and pick-up services as well as guided & self-guided canoe & kayak adventures in and near North Bay. 

• Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitters is a long-established Algonquin Provincial Park outfitter located in Mattawa that offers canoe rentals and onsite delivery to Kiosk Access Point #29.
• Voyageur Quest Outfitting services Algonquin Park Access Point #1 offering gear, rentals, an outpost store, guide trips and a dedicated wilderness centre.
• Driftwood Paddle continues the tradition of the long-established Northern Wilderness Outfitters at Kawawaymog Lake (Round Lake) and offers rentals, gear and guided trips.
• Temagami Outfitting Co has been guiding and outfitting canoe trips in the Temagami backcountry since 1926. With a long history in the area, their seasoned guides can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
• Hartley Bay Marina offers French River Canoeing rentals, cottage packages, guided trips and curated canoe routes.

Explore More Outdoor Adventures in North Bay

Looking for more fun and family-friendly outdoor activities? Discover scenic hiking trails, cycling routes, paddling adventures, fishing spots, beaches and wildlife experiences throughout North Bay and the area.

• Outdoor Adventures in North Bay
• Cycling Routes & Bike Trails
• North Bay Hiking Trails
• Swimming at North Bay’s Beaches
• Fishing in North Bay
• ATV Trails Near North Bay
• Day trips to Provincial Parks Near North Bay