Restrooms
AvailableYes (thunder toilets at select campsites only)
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALClothing optional (unofficial, long-established)
The Good
- True Ontario wilderness: McCrae Lake is part of a protected conservation reserve with no commercial development, giving it a raw, untouched backcountry feel.
- Completely free access: There are no entrance fees, parking fees, or camping permits required; this is still public Crown land.
- Excellent canoe-based experience: The lake is accessed by paddling via the McDonald River system, making the journey part of the adventure.
- Naturally quiet and spacious: Because access requires a canoe and portaging, crowds thin out quickly once you reach the lake.
- Beautiful swimming and waterfalls: The rocks near the portage and waterfall are popular for swimming, soaking, and cooling off on hot days.
- Established nude-friendly culture: Clothing-optional use has existed here for decades, especially at campsites and swimming areas.
The Bad
- Portages required: Access includes a 150 m carry from the parking lot and a more challenging 250 m portage near the waterfall.
- Poor signage: The waterfall portage is not clearly marked and can be confusing for first-time visitors.
- Spotty to nonexistent cell service: Do not rely on mobile data or GPS once you arrive.
- Occasional litter: Some glass and trash are found near popular sites, especially late in summer.
- Motorboat controversy: Although historically canoe-only, some motorboat activity has increased and can disturb the peace.
- No facilities at parking area: No toilets, water, or supplies before launching.
The Naked Truth
McCrae Lake has quietly been one of the longest-running naturist destinations in Ontario. Because it is inaccessible without paddling and portaging, the atmosphere has always leaned toward privacy, freedom, and respect rather than social nudism. Many visitors remove their clothes naturally once they reach camp or settle into swimming areas, especially near the rocks, waterfall pools, and isolated shoreline sites.
This is not an official naturist area, but nudity is widely accepted and deeply ingrained in the lake’s culture. Discretion is still important near portages and shared routes, but at campsites and swimming spots, clothing is very much optional. For many longtime visitors, McCrae Lake is considered one of Ontario’s most peaceful nude outdoor experiences.
Insider Tip
Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a campsite. Aim for sites marked with white conservation signs, as these are more likely to have thunder toilets. Bring printed maps, allow extra time for portages, and always follow Leave No Trace.
Who's Here
Canoe campers, longtime nudists, paddlers, anglers, hikers, couples, solo travelers, and dog owners. The crowd is friendly, outdoorsy, and generally respectful. Weekends can be busy; weekdays are often blissfully quiet.
Beach Surface
Natural granite rock shelves, forested shoreline, small sandy patches near campsites, and rocky swimming entries. Water is clean but cold.
Access Difficulty
Moderate to difficult. Requires carrying gear, canoeing, portaging, and basic wilderness skills. Not accessible for strollers or limited mobility.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of McCrae Lake, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of McCrae Lake, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
McCrae Lake is located approximately 2 hours north of Toronto, just off Highway 69, near Georgian Bay in Ontario.
By Car: From Toronto, take Highway 400 north, which eventually becomes Highway 69. Continue for approximately 35-40 km past Port Severn until you see a service station on the right and a sign for Georgian Bay Road. Turn left onto Georgian Bay Road, then make an immediate right into the small parking lot.
By Canoe: From the lower parking lot, follow the path into the woods for about 5 minutes to reach the canoe launch. Paddle out toward the rocks on your left and complete a short portage over them. This area offers excellent swimming and soaking beneath the waterfall. After the portage, you’ll see the river that leads directly into McCrae Lake. Once on the lake, numerous campsites line the shoreline, with additional sites on small islands.
By Public Transport: There is no public transportation to McCrae Lake. Access requires a private vehicle and canoe.
Recommended Accommodation
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