Camden Lake Provincial Wildlife Area

Protected Wetland Sanctuary | Stone Mills Township

Camden Lake Provincial Wildlife Area is a 1,400-hectare wetland sanctuary in Stone Mills managed for the protection of migratory waterfowl. Nature enthusiasts visit for premier bird watching and shoreline hiking, utilizing the Canada Goose sanctuary and observation points to view diverse species within the natural Trails & Nature Parks network of the region.

Camden Lake Provincial Wildlife Area is an ecological preserve managed to protect sensitive wetland habitats and local waterfowl populations within the Napanee River watershed. The area has long served as a sanctuary for Canada Geese and encompasses marshes, open water, and mixed forest. It remains a vital stopover for migratory birds, and the lack of development keeps it quiet enough that the birds stay. For visitors, it offers low-impact recreation and a chance to observe wetland ecology in a natural setting.

Status/Season:
Open year-round
Facilities:
Information kiosks, observation points, boat launch
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and Fall for bird migration; Winter for snowmobiling
Accessibility:
Natural terrain; uneven shoreline paths
Cost:
Free public access
Parking:
Gravel lot located at the main entrance
Time Required:
1 to 3 hours
Pet Policy:
Leashed pets permitted; must stay on trails

What to Expect

This is a wilderness-style experience with minimal infrastructure. The trails are natural and can turn muddy in wet seasons, but they lead to observation points overlooking the lake and its extensive marshlands where the birding is the real draw.

 

Here’s What’s Different

  • The site includes a dedicated sanctuary specifically managed for the protection of Canada Geese.
  • Over 180 bird species have been spotted here, making it one of the most significant wetland birding locations in the Stone Mills region.
  • The area sees very few visitors, which is exactly what keeps it worth visiting.

Good to Know 

  • Bring binoculars and birding guides to get the most from the observation areas.
  • As a wildlife area, visitors are encouraged to follow “Leave No Trace” principles to protect nesting habitats.

Visit during early morning hours in late autumn to see thousands of migratory birds congregating on the water before their flight south.

  • The area is a key component of the regional Trails & Nature Parks system.
  • It is situated near the quiet community of Moscow in Stone Mills.

Location Details

Distance: Approximately 2–4 km of natural paths

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Your Route

What We Offer

Common Questions

What activities are available at Camden Lake Provincial Wildlife Area?

This protected site is a premier destination for bird watching and nature photography, specifically known for its Canada Goose sanctuary. Visitors can explore the shoreline habitat and inland trails to observe diverse waterfowl and wildlife within this expansive Stone Mills wetland system.

Can I launch a boat at Camden Lake?

While limited, non-motorized vessels like canoes may be used to explore the shoreline, though the primary focus is land-based observation.

Are there washrooms on site?

Facilities are extremely limited or non-existent; it is recommended to use amenities in nearby Greater Napanee before arrival.

Is hunting permitted?

Hunting is regulated and restricted to specific seasons and zones; visitors must check current Ministry of Natural Resources regulations before visiting.

Contacts

603 Card Road, Moscow

Property Owned & Operated by the Ministry of Natural Resources

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Getting Here

269-601 Card Rd, Yarker, ON K0K 3N0

 

Located in Stone Mills Township near Moscow. 

Located at the end of Card Road on the south shore of Camden Lake and west of County Road 6. Follow local signage from County Road 6 to reach the main access point and parking area.

Travel Ideas

Napanee River Tours
Bergeron Estate Winery
Naturally L&A Tall Pines Ride
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