Oxtongue Lake, Haliburton Highlands Travel Guide

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Discover the beauty and art of Oxtongue Lake, where nature meets Canadian heritage in the heart of Algonquin Highlands.

Oxtongue Lake, nestled beside Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Known for its clear waters, sandy shorelines, and connections to the Group of Seven painters, it offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural history.

A brief summary to Oxtongue Lake

Algonquin Highlands, Ontario, CA

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oxtongue Lake.

Visit the Oxtongue Lake Community Centre to see the A.J. Casson mural and learn about the Group of Seven's connection to the area.
Explore Ragged Falls Provincial Park, located a short drive from Oxtongue Lake, to witness one of Ontario's most stunning waterfalls.
Bring your canoe or kayak to explore the lake's inlets and enjoy the abundant wildlife.
Plan a winter visit to experience the area's top-notch snowmobiling and snowshoeing trails.

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Explore Oxtongue Lake on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Oxtongue Lake, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Huntsville, Ontario, take Highway 60 east towards Algonquin Park. The drive is approximately 30 kilometers and takes about 25 minutes. Oxtongue Lake is located directly off Highway 60. Parking is available at various access points along the lake, including the Oxtongue Lake Community Centre and Ragged Falls Provincial Park. Parking fees may apply at Ragged Falls, with daily rates around $12-$21 CAD depending on the season.
Walking

If you are staying at a lodge or cottage on Oxtongue Lake, accessing the lake is typically a short walk. Many accommodations have direct lake access or are located within a few minutes' walk of the shoreline. The Beetle Lake Trail is accessible from Oxtongue Lake, offering a scenic walking route with views of the lake. The trail is free to access.

Discover more about Oxtongue Lake

Oxtongue Lake, situated in the Algonquin Highlands of Ontario, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a rich artistic heritage. As the last lake before Algonquin Provincial Park's west gate, it serves as a gateway to the park's vast wilderness. The lake's deep, clean waters and sandy shoreline make it ideal for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and boating.Originally named in 1853 by Alexander Murray, Oxtongue Lake's history is intertwined with the logging industry that first drew settlers to the area. In the early 1900s, the lake began attracting visitors seeking the tranquility and natural beauty of the region. The landscape inspired artists like Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, who created over 40 paintings in the area, solidifying Oxtongue Lake's place in Canadian art history.Today, Oxtongue Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Ragged Falls Provincial Park, hike the Beetle Lake Trail, or paddle the Oxtongue River. In winter, the area transforms into a snowmobiling and snowshoeing paradise. The Oxtongue Lake Community Centre hosts events throughout the year, including Canada Day festivities and summer lecture series. Art lovers can visit the Tom Thomson and Group of Seven Outdoor Art Exhibit to view murals inspired by the area's landscapes.Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, artistic inspiration, or a peaceful retreat, Oxtongue Lake offers a uniquely Haliburton Highlands experience.