Vacation rentals in Charleston Lake

Located in Eastern Ontario, 90 minutes from Ottawa, Charleston Lake is one of the prettiest lakes in all of Canada, boasting dozens of islands and 100 miles of shoreline adorned with hidden coves, secluded bays, and spectacular rocky cliffs. All of these distinctive features make it a spectacular location for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. The 6,000-acre lake forms part of the Charleston Lake Provincial Park, which is within the Frontenac Arch Biosphere — named after the stretch of exposed granite — recognized by UNESCO for its importance for biodiversity. The park also contains two beaches with some of the cleanest water in Ontario, ideal for a refreshing dip for swimmers of all abilities. The terrain is rocky and rugged, with forest landscapes offering many great hiking trails, including the 2.6-kilometre Sandstone Island Trail that brings you to the foot of unique rock formations. The more challenging nine-kilometre Blue Mountain Trail leads you to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Summer at Charleston Lake sees mostly warm, sunny days for enjoying your stay in one of the many cottage rentals in the area. In July, the Charleston Lake Fireworks display is an annual celebration with a spectacular fireworks show over the lake. In nearby Athens, the popular Cornfest in August is worth visiting with its entertainment and kids’ games. In spring, you’ll enjoy sunny days with a mix of rain, so it’s a good idea to come prepared with a jacket. Fall is a great time to visit the region, with brilliant yellows and oranges filling the landscape. September welcomes a major country music festival in nearby Brockville, which showcases local and national musicians. If you’re visiting in winter, you can expect cold conditions and snow, so be prepared with proper waterproof boots, gloves, hats, and warm clothes.

Kayaking

It’s fun to explore the coves and bays of the lake from a kayak. You can set off from the Charleston Village public boat launch and paddle past Indian Head Rock, then wind through a series of large and small islands. The sandy shores at Huckleberry Hollow make for pleasant rest areas, but you can also continue to the Blue Mountain Trail, where you can jump out of the kayak and take a walk up the mountain for spectacular views over the lake. Kayak and canoe rentals, as well as maps, are available at local marinas.

The Sandstone Trail

The 2.6-kilometre loop within Charleston Lake Provincial Park is one of the park’s most interesting trails. On it, you’ll encounter unique rock formations caused by erosion. The trail’s highlight is a spectacular rock shelter that feels more like you’re walking through a cave. This shelter was used by the First Nations who lived here more than 1,000 years ago.

The 1000 Islands Tower

It’s a 30-minute drive to nearby 1000 Islands, where 130 feet above the town, the breathtaking views of the 1000 Islands and Saint Lawrence River will be your reward. The journey up the tower is via an elevator, and three observation decks offer panoramic views and spectacular photo opportunities. You’ll also find a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs and maple syrup.