Algonquin Outfitters - Brent

Overview

Tucked on the north shore of Cedar Lake at the Brent access, this is the classic northern outpost for launching Algonquin backcountry trips. It’s small, friendly, and purpose‑built for paddlers: rent a canoe, grab last‑minute gear or groceries, get route intel, and push off toward the Petawawa, Nipissing, Catfish, or Burntroot country.

What They Offer

• Canoe rentals and complete/partial outfitting packages (reserve for packages).
• Water taxi and delivery to streamline big crossings or tricky shuttles.
• A compact shop with maps, fishing tackle, snacks, ice, limited groceries (think milk, bread, frozen meat, and freeze‑dried meals), plus camping/hiking basics and souvenirs.

Access & Logistics

Brent is remote. You’ll drive about 40 km of gravel from Hwy 17 with washboard sections and early‑day logging trucks—plan an unhurried approach and expect little to no cell service. The permit station is at the start of Brent Road off Hwy 17; there isn’t another one farther in. The adjacent Brent campground is rustic (vault/compost toilets, cold running water; no showers), and there’s an AO communal bunkhouse and historic ranger cabins nearby if you want a roof.

Hours & Seasonality

Officially the store operates May 1 to Thanksgiving, typically daytime hours. In practice, this outpost runs on northern reality: July–August is your best bet for predictable daily hours; shoulder seasons may shift to by‑appointment or brief closures (especially around black fly season). Book outfitting well ahead; some gear (like whitewater‑specific canoes) may only be issued from other AO bases.

Who It’s For

• Paddlers who value solitude and big‑lake access over convenience.
• Anglers chasing trout and bass in nearby lakes, with walleye/muskie opportunities along the Petawawa system.
• Trippers comfortable with flexible hours and remote logistics.

Wildlife & Nearby Highlights

Launch from here and you’re in classic loon, beaver, and moose country, with occasional black bear or wolf sightings—keep a tidy camp and store food properly. Driving in, you’ll pass the Brent Crater area along Brent Road, a striking impact site with a roadside viewpoint.

Best Time to Visit

• Mid‑July through August for the most reliable store hours and smoother logistics.
• Mornings are best for launching across Cedar Lake before the wind builds.
• Weekends see a bit more traffic; arrive early for rentals and advice.
• In spring and fall, arrange services in advance and expect cooler, buggier, or windier conditions.

Good to Know

There’s a can/glass ban once you leave the roadside campground for interior sites. Stock is intentionally limited at Brent—treat this as a resupply and rental hub, not a full grocery. If you need anything specialized, coordinate ahead through AO’s main base.