Turtle River-White Otter Lake Provincial Park

Turtle River-White Otter Lake Provincial Park is a protected wilderness area in the Kenora District between Ignace and Atikokan spanning tens of thousands of hectares. The landscape is defined by numerous lakes, rapids, and portage routes that form the Turtle River waterway system.

The area was established as Turtle River Provincial Park in 1989 and received its current name in 2003 following an expansion to include White Otter Lake territories. This enlargement allowed for greater forest protection in the region.

Indigenous rock art appears along the waterways, showing the long presence of Aboriginal peoples in this region. These artworks reflect how people have lived here and connected with the land over time.

The park is mainly accessible by water, with boat launches serving as entry points into the river system. Camping spots and rest areas are spread throughout the landscape.

White Otter Castle is a three-story log structure built in the 1910s by Jimmy McQuat within the park. This unusual building was constructed entirely by one person and remains a surprising feature in the wilderness today.

Location: Kenora District

Inception: 1989

Website: https://ontarioparks.com/park/turtleriverwhiteotterlake

GPS coordinates: 49.19000,-92.22000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24