Muskoka lake guide
Lake of Bays
Big Water, Deep Bays, and Classic Muskoka Remoteness
- Nearby
- Huntsville (20 min west), Dorset (15 min east), Dwight (on-lake), Baysville (south shore)
- In a line
- Muskoka's fourth-largest lake at 68.8 km², with deep, cold water and a maze of bays. Bigwin Island sits among its island clusters.
Overview
Lake of Bays covers 6,780 hectares with a maximum depth of 79.25 m and average depth of 22 m, one of the deepest lakes in Muskoka. Water clarity regularly hits 8 m on the Secchi disc, fed primarily by the Oxtongue and Hollow Rivers. Its 167 km of shoreline is defined by 15-plus named bays, rugged granite headlands, and over two dozen islands including Bigwin, Burnt, and Pancake. Water levels are actively managed at Baysville under the Muskoka River Water Management Plan; seasonal fluctuation of up to 0.5 m between spring and fall must be accounted for in any dock construction.
Good to know
- MNR lake trout designation triggers stricter shoreline setback rules under the District's Official Plan
- Large size and prevailing westerlies produce significant wave action, so exposed points need engineered dock systems
- Interior bay properties (Ten Mile Bay, Murky Bay) are reached by narrow gravel roads with seasonal weight restrictions
- Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation may scrutinize exterior alterations near Bigwin Island and Dorset
Worth checking
Before you buy on Lake of Bays.
- 01
Water level is regulated at the Baysville Dam under the Muskoka River Water Management Plan. Spring high water can flood low-set fixed docks, so ask how the crib positioning handles the full regulated range.
- 02
Several older cottages near Dwight and Port Cunningham were built on Crown land leases that were never converted to fee simple. Confirm the title is freehold.
- 03
The Township's Official Plan limits new boathouse heights to 6.5 m in Hamlet nodes around Baysville and South Portage. Ask about this if you are thinking of a two-storey boathouse, since it may need a variance.
- 04
Bigwin Island is privately held land with strata-style waterfront access arrangements. For island properties, read the easement and shared-dock agreements carefully.
General information. Your home inspector, your lawyer and the township confirm the details on any specific property.
Talk to Seth
Thinking about Lake of Bays? Call Seth.
He'll tell you the long version: the bays, the roads, and what to look at on any cottage you're considering.