Raccoon Lake Campground

Overview

Tucked 6 km south of Highway 60, Raccoon Lake Campground is the quiet, low‑frills sibling to Rock Lake. It’s small, rustic, and all about the water and woods—perfect if you’d rather skip the bustle along the corridor. The campground runs a short shoulder opening around the May long weekend, then reopens mid‑June through Labour Day (in 2025: May 9–19 and June 12–September 1). It was formerly called Coon Lake.

Campsites & Facilities

There are 48 sites with average seclusion. Most are compact and best for tents; pads can be uneven and trailers are discouraged. Expect vault toilets only and a single potable water tap in the middle of the campground. Registration, showers, laundry, and the dump station are at Rock Lake Campground, 2 km farther down the same road. There’s overflow parking near the entrance and a small garbage/recycling depot. Cell service is generally nonexistent.

On the Water

The tiny sandy beach has a buoyed swim area—great for a quick dip or a kid‑friendly splash. There’s no formal boat launch here, but the beach is the go‑to spot for hand‑launching canoes and kayaks onto this calm, protected lake. If you need a proper launch (or rentals delivered), use nearby Rock Lake. Note: dogs aren’t allowed on the Raccoon Lake beach.

Trails Nearby

From the campground you can access the demanding Centennial Ridges Trail (10 km) via an access path. Booth’s Rock (5.1 km, moderate) starts near Rock Lake’s dog beach and packs big views and a touch of railway history; portions saw closures in 2024 for a bridge replacement, so check status before you go. For wheels, the flat, family‑friendly Old Railway Bike Trail reaches Rock Lake.

Vibe: Who Will Love It

Campers who want a simple base with lake time and instant trail access tend to be happiest here. If you need hookups, big private pads, or an on‑site comfort station, this isn’t your match—head to a larger campground instead.

Best Time to Visit

• Seasonally: Aim for mid‑June to late August when it’s open; shoulder dates vary by year (2025 example: May 9–19 and June 12–September 1).
• Daily rhythm: Mornings are calmest for paddling and photography; afternoons see more beach activity. Evenings are peaceful once day‑use folks clear out.
• Bugs: Black flies can be fierce in June—pack repellant and head nets if you’re early season.

Practical Tips

• Check in at the Rock Lake office; that’s also where you’ll find showers, laundry, and a trailer sanitation station.
• Bring water containers to make the most of the single potable tap.
• There’s no parking at the beach; plan to walk your gear from your site or overflow parking.
• Stock up on broader groceries along Highway 60; firewood and ice are available at the Rock Lake office.

Wildlife Notes

Typical Algonquin wildlife is around, but the campground’s small footprint means casual viewing is hit‑or‑miss. Follow standard bear‑smart food storage, especially in late summer when berries draw animals closer to trails.