Nestled on the border between northeastern Saskatchewan and northwestern Manitoba, Reindeer Lake is a vast and awe-inspiring body of water that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This glacial lake, the second largest in Saskatchewan and ninth largest in Canada, boasts a surface area of approximately 5,650 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 219 meters.
The lake’s shoreline is dotted with several communities, including Kinoosao on the eastern shore, Brochet at the northern end, and Southend at the southern tip. These towns serve as gateways to a myriad of activities and experiences. For anglers, Reindeer Lake is a paradise, teeming with trophy-sized lake trout, northern pike, and arctic grayling.
In the summer, visitors can access the lake through various marinas and boat launches, such as those found near the Norvil Olson Campground, which also offers a free campground and lake access. Fishing lodges like Nordic Lodge and Lawrence Bay Lodge provide comfortable accommodations and guided fishing excursions. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy boating, kayaking, and canoeing across the lake’s numerous bays and islands.
During the winter, Reindeer Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The frozen lake becomes a network of trails for dog sledding and snowshoeing, offering breathtaking views of the snow-clad landscape. Whether in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter, Reindeer Lake presents an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the pristine beauty of Canada’s wilderness.
- Surface area (km)
- 6650
- Max depth (m)
- 219
- Elevation (m)
- 337
- Shoreline length (km)
- 9267.45
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Bay Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Boating
- Hiking
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
Islands
Reindeer Lake, located in Northern Saskatchewan, features over 5,500 islands. The area is popular for fishing and outdoor activities, with several lodges and camps scattered across the lake, but specific island names or histories are not detailed for this exact coordinates.
Nearby amenities
When you find yourself near Reindeer Lake in northern Saskatchewan, a world of natural beauty and rich history awaits. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Norvil Olson Campground at the southern edge of the lake is a fantastic destination. Here, you can enjoy complimentary camping with convenient lake access and a boat launch, making it perfect for both camping and boating adventures.
As you explore the area, you’ll want to take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of Bedford House, an iconic former fur-trade post set up by David Thompson in 1796 on the western shore of Reindeer Lake. This landmark adds a fascinating layer of cultural heritage to your visit. If fishing or hunting is more to your taste, the Reindeer Lake Trout Camp and Lawrence Bay Lodge offer guided experiences, along with comfortable accommodations in charming natural log cabins. This opportunity allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquil wilderness while engaging in these exciting activities.
While the area may lack urban amenities such as restaurants and shops, its pristine landscapes and remote beauty are truly captivating. Be sure to visit Deep Bay, where a large meteorite impact shapes the local geography and adds to the area’s lore. Your journey to Reindeer Lake promises a memorable blend of outdoor exploration and historical intrigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Reindeer Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
No, it is not always safe to swim in Reindeer Lake. The water can contain hazards like *E. coli*, *Enterococci*, and cyanobacteria, which can indicate the presence of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and protozoans. Regular monitoring and multiple safety barriers are recommended to ensure water quality.
-
Reindeer Lake is a popular destination for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts because it is home to a wide variety of fish species, including trophy-sized lake trout, northern pike, walleye, and Arctic grayling. The lake’s cold Canadian waters and clear, deep environment make it ideal for catching these fish. Its short but intense fishing season from June to September also attracts anglers.
-
Reindeer Lake in Saskatchewan is a catch-and-release (CR) lake. This means anglers can only catch and release fish, with no keeping of fish allowed. The fishing season on Reindeer Lake runs from May 25 to April 15.
-
There are no dog-friendly beaches specifically mentioned for Reindeer Lake in the provided sources. Reindeer Lake is not listed among the dog-friendly beach locations discussed. The information available focuses on beaches in South Carolina and the Great Lakes region.
-
Towns near Reindeer Lake include Brochet, Manitoba, and Southend and Kinoosao, Saskatchewan. Brochet is at the northern end, Southend at the southern end, and Kinoosao on the eastern shore. You can access Kinoosao by road over Manitoba Provincial roads, while Southend is accessible via Highway 102.