-
Come Staycation with Us: Discover French River
READ MORE >
What Is A Staycation?
Staycation is a term that was originally coined in the market crisis of 2008. Now in 2020, Covid-19 has dictated the need for public health and tourism to restrict travel plans for holidays of travel abroad or within our Canadian boundaries. Ontarian residents are now immersing themselves in their immediate surroundings for a staycation near home in Northeastern Ontario.
What Might Your Adventure Discover?
Your adventure at Bear’s Den Lodge will make you more aware of your environment. You will find peace and quiet in the wilderness expanse of the French River Provincial Park. The lower French River Delta has many offerings to explore. Discover and see the abundant wildlife. Birds, reptiles and fish inhabit the shorelines, skies, forests, and water of our area.
Benefits Offered in a Local Staycation?
Firstly, it is econo -
Sculpted by Ice – French River
READ MORE >
"What's So Great About The Great Lakes?":
Picture the world as it was 12,000 years ago where the land was covered by melting mile-thick glaciers. This amazing sculpture of ice, carved the land and created the Great Lakes. Forming approximately 15,000 kilometres (9,500 miles) of inland freshwater "ocean-like shores". The lakes also contain an estimated 35,000 islands of which 30,000 of those islands dot the Georgian Bay alone.
Do you know which Great Lake, the French River borders?
[embed]https://youtu.be/gBRcOLcEwF0[/embed]
Taking a Closer Look at How the French River was Sculpted:
The Precambrian Shield was created from massive pressure and volcanic heat that twisted and upheaved the land into gneiss, quartzite, and granite in a pallet of pink, white, brown & grey.
Example of Gneiss
Erosion over time formed the basins of the Great Lakes and the re -
52.5″ Musky for 51st Year Group
READ MORE >
"It hit in three to four feet away from the boat. It was raining. The muskie gave me a real fight, it ran three times taking my black and chartreuse eagle tail under the boat. What a fight!"
With a quick measure and photo of the French River musky, Bob Griffith of State College, PA, released his largest muskie to date during the group's 51st stay at Bear's Den Lodge. Since 1989, Bob reports that he has caught other muskies in past, but was concerned about releasing them quickly so "Not all fish were photographed".
[caption id="attachment_1538" align="alignleft" width="625"] Larry William's Muskie from released 2 years ago (at the time of writing this).[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_1539" align="alignleft" width="625"] Bob Griffith with a previous French River Muskie.[/caption]
The 51st Year Johnson Adventure Tour Group from PA have enjoyed many other musky catches and -
French River Produces a Musky a Day
READ MORE >
Returning to the French River Bill and Nancy Hamblin talk to the lodge owners, Art & Brenda Barefoot, before the hunt for the elusive French River Muskie. The weather conditions for the day were spotty with high winds and choppy waters but no musky can be caught without putting effort into it. In their search for the massive monster, Bill trolls his chartreuse bladed black bucktail and bam, the fight begins!
Within the first two hours after to their arrival to the Bear's Den Lodge Bill hooked into an impressive 45.5 inch Musky, creating the first of another successful muskie hunt.
[caption id="attachment_1465" align="aligncenter" width="578"] Bill's first day French River Fishing , an impressive 45.5 inch Musky[/caption]
On day two, just after breakfast at the Lodge, Bill and Nancy went searching for another French River Musky. Once again after several hours of dedication in flaili -
Natural French River Architecture – University of Waterloo
READ MORE >
TECHNOLOGY IS NOT THE MASTERY OF NATURE BUT OF THE RELATION BETWEEN NATURE AND [HUMANITY]—Walter Benjamin
NATURAL RELATIONS TECHNOLOGICALLY TRANSFORMED
University of Waterloo - Architecture students venture to the great Canadian wilderness of the French River to explore the classroom for inspiration. During their stay, their project was to document two feet cubed of nature then build a model that would fit snugly inside a two foot cubed container. The model material should be sourced from the Cambridge Rona or Home Depot.
As suggested by their professors, it is worth considering that all matter is of the earth. It is also easy to conceive of the two feet cubed that you have documented as nature. While it is more difficult to conceive of the materials of the model as also natural, they are merely natural relations technologically transformed.
The natural relations of t -
Nature from A Bird’s Eye
READ MORE >
Have you ever wondered what birds see? Imagining yourself flying over any obstacle and taking in the vastness that is the open skies?
We always look for ways to immerse ourselves, to reconnect with that of our roots and get connected with nature. However, sometimes the absolute beauty of the French River Provincial Park is not only where you stand but what's surrounds you. To traverse the rugged terrain and watch out over the sparkling water is an aspect many can enjoy, but what so few before could witness is seeing the French River wilderness with a bird's eye view.
We decided at Bear's Den Lodge was to help provide a richer experience to an area many have returned to. By reaching out to our friends at Snow Drift Media, Sean DeCory Photography and Monkey & Machine. They collaborated with us to provide an experience all can enjoy, who are planning their vacation for the French -
Spring Peaks & Zika Seeks
READ MORE >
Are you planning for a camping trip this year? Already shopping at your favourite retailers and outdoor suppliers? Are you prepared?
Something that I’m sure has been bothering many, or at least gaining interest, is the rising concern for the Zika Virus. We have been hearing about it on TV, in newspapers, and even the various social networks. Various media outlets are bringing to light different advisory warnings for those traveling to countries with the outbreaks. While various regions all over the world are still in their winter seasons the virus will have a harder time spreading until spring peaks with the mosquito population.
Do not fret! This short article will detail import things you should know about the virus and ways you can stay healthy in the great outdoors!
The most common way to contract the virus is from mosquito bites. According to the Centers for Disease Co -
Fishing – The Job that Hooked My Heart
READ MORE >
"Ever since I was a young boy I always had fond memories heading north and fishing with my brother in Ontario," says Art Barefoot (Co-Owner of Bear's Den Lodge). "From the people, the sights, and even the thrill hearing the reel squeal from another fight with a fish. It was paradise and I wanted to be part of it."
"Life wasn't always easy growing up in a humble Pennsylvanian farmstead, but I knew after my first voyage north that I wanted to be an outfitter."
[caption id="attachment_1093" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Owner & Chef Art Barefoot providing laugher and warm meals[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_1094" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Line Class World Record Muskie Holder Art Barefoot explains the Muskie fishery and structure of how to fish the French River to Bill Hamblin (center) and long time guests Chris and Harry.[/caption]
"Through high school I w -
Would You Like to Visit the French River?
READ MORE >
Imagine waking to the sounds of song birds chirping happily in the first rays of your summer morning. Splashes rippling through the crisp mirror reflection, while the busy beavers and otters continue their work and play. Can you feel the soft pine tingling your senses as the gentle breeze brushes pass?
Bear's Den Lodge shares a collection of beautiful photos from a long time guest as he was immersed and enraptured by the French River, during his vacation.
French River Photography at Bear's Den Lodge, Ontario, Canada
-
Bear’s Den Lodge Inspired by Nature for 90 Years – A Diamond in the Wilderness
READ MORE >
French River Delta landscape of granite rock, pine trees and more to appreciate.
Does nature inspire you? If yes, Bear's Den Lodge would like to share an inspiring "place" some call a "special place", a "simple life" and to others, it is a "bit of heaven on earth" for the past 90 years. This diamond, or jewel in the North provides you the opportunity to become a part of a significant part of Canadian history some 400 years ago during Champlain's journey through the French River.
Imagine journeying these corridors 400 years ago in a canoe with Champlain. New and adventurous waters lay ahead; not knowing what nature had in store. Between these magnificent granite rocks with white quartz blazes were sparkling diamonds in the blue water reflecting the magnificent sky and landscape it enjoyed. Today, being a protected and the first Canadian Heritage Provincial Park it remains much unc -
Gone Were the Days of Wooden Boats, a Labor of Love , But Not Forgotten
READ MORE >
Looking at some old photographs, I remember the pride in purchasing the very first wooden boat for Bear's Den Lodge some thirty years ago, it was the brightest pride and smoothest, fastest ride in the French River Delta. Wooden boats were a labor of love.
Pictured here are the memories of those who passed through the history before us. As the memory projects, the previous owners tired of the hours of labor and love to maintain these wooden boats. The old fleet currently rests not on the bank where we sadly found them beyond restoration, but in the cove to be a reminder of the days gone by, but not forgotten.
Gone, But Not Forgotten
Check out our current Bear's Den Lodge fleet. -
Holiday Gift Ideas for the Outdoor Lover
READ MORE >
Do you have that special outdoor lover and need a special gift for the holidays? Have you bought every lure possible for the tackle box? Christmas is closing in quickly and still don't know what to do? Now is the time to plan that special event for that special person or difficult gift idea.
Bear's Den Lodge is a unique place to share a special gift idea from. For the holidays, Bear's Den Lodge is offering a totally, "Make your Own Fishing Package Idea". You can create that one of a kind gift for that special person. The options are endless and the imagination is the lead.
You can create a Personalized Self-guided Fishing American Plan Meal Package to a "Fully-Pampered" Guided American Plan Meal Package or mix it up and do your own meals in a French River Housekeeping Cottage. The lodge outfitters offer 30 years of experience to create daily adventures and give advice on where and -
Welcome to the Bear’s Den Lodge Blog
READ MORE >
Welcome to the Bear's Den Lodge Blog.
Bear's Den Lodge posts will take you on a journey from the history of the French River, to stories, nature, fishing tips, great food, adventures and just pure beauty of Ontario to discover.
Would you like to jump on board with us as we take you on an outdoor adventure into the "simple life" that Bear's Den Lodge has to offer?
Bear's Den Lodge leaves the pavement behind, so jump in.
Share your experiences and take the adventure challenge!
Visit our website too.
What Is A Staycation?
Staycation is a term that was originally coined in the market crisis of 2008. Now in 2020, Covid-19 has dictated the need for public health and tourism to restrict travel plans for holidays of travel abroad or within our Canadian boundaries. Ontarian residents are now immersing themselves in their immediate surroundings for a staycation near home in Northeastern Ontario.
What Might Your Adventure Discover?
Your adventure at Bear’s Den Lodge will make you more aware of your environment. You will find peace and quiet in the wilderness expanse of the French River Provincial Park. The lower French River Delta has many offerings to explore. Discover and see the abundant wildlife. Birds, reptiles and fish inhabit the shorelines, skies, forests, and water of our area.
Benefits Offered in a Local Staycation?
Firstly, it is econo 
"What's So Great About The Great Lakes?":
Picture the world as it was 12,000 years ago where the land was covered by melting mile-thick glaciers. This amazing sculpture of ice, carved the land and created the Great Lakes. Forming approximately 15,000 kilometres (9,500 miles) of inland freshwater "ocean-like shores". The lakes also contain an estimated 35,000 islands of which 30,000 of those islands dot the Georgian Bay alone.
Do you know which Great Lake, the French River borders?
[embed]https://youtu.be/gBRcOLcEwF0[/embed]
Taking a Closer Look at How the French River was Sculpted:
The Precambrian Shield was created from massive pressure and volcanic heat that twisted and upheaved the land into gneiss, quartzite, and granite in a pallet of pink, white, brown & grey.
Example of Gneiss
Erosion over time formed the basins of the Great Lakes and the re 
"It hit in three to four feet away from the boat. It was raining. The muskie gave me a real fight, it ran three times taking my black and chartreuse eagle tail under the boat. What a fight!"
With a quick measure and photo of the French River musky, Bob Griffith of State College, PA, released his largest muskie to date during the group's 51st stay at Bear's Den Lodge. Since 1989, Bob reports that he has caught other muskies in past, but was concerned about releasing them quickly so "Not all fish were photographed".
[caption id="attachment_1538" align="alignleft" width="625"] Larry William's Muskie from released 2 years ago (at the time of writing this).[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_1539" align="alignleft" width="625"] Bob Griffith with a previous French River Muskie.[/caption]
The 51st Year Johnson Adventure Tour Group from PA have enjoyed many other musky catches and 
Returning to the French River Bill and Nancy Hamblin talk to the lodge owners, Art & Brenda Barefoot, before the hunt for the elusive French River Muskie. The weather conditions for the day were spotty with high winds and choppy waters but no musky can be caught without putting effort into it. In their search for the massive monster, Bill trolls his chartreuse bladed black bucktail and bam, the fight begins!
Within the first two hours after to their arrival to the Bear's Den Lodge Bill hooked into an impressive 45.5 inch Musky, creating the first of another successful muskie hunt.
[caption id="attachment_1465" align="aligncenter" width="578"] Bill's first day French River Fishing , an impressive 45.5 inch Musky[/caption]
On day two, just after breakfast at the Lodge, Bill and Nancy went searching for another French River Musky. Once again after several hours of dedication in flaili 
TECHNOLOGY IS NOT THE MASTERY OF NATURE BUT OF THE RELATION BETWEEN NATURE AND [HUMANITY]—Walter Benjamin
NATURAL RELATIONS TECHNOLOGICALLY TRANSFORMED
University of Waterloo - Architecture students venture to the great Canadian wilderness of the French River to explore the classroom for inspiration. During their stay, their project was to document two feet cubed of nature then build a model that would fit snugly inside a two foot cubed container. The model material should be sourced from the Cambridge Rona or Home Depot.
As suggested by their professors, it is worth considering that all matter is of the earth. It is also easy to conceive of the two feet cubed that you have documented as nature. While it is more difficult to conceive of the materials of the model as also natural, they are merely natural relations technologically transformed.
The natural relations of t 
Have you ever wondered what birds see? Imagining yourself flying over any obstacle and taking in the vastness that is the open skies?
We always look for ways to immerse ourselves, to reconnect with that of our roots and get connected with nature. However, sometimes the absolute beauty of the French River Provincial Park is not only where you stand but what's surrounds you. To traverse the rugged terrain and watch out over the sparkling water is an aspect many can enjoy, but what so few before could witness is seeing the French River wilderness with a bird's eye view.
We decided at Bear's Den Lodge was to help provide a richer experience to an area many have returned to. By reaching out to our friends at Snow Drift Media, Sean DeCory Photography and Monkey & Machine. They collaborated with us to provide an experience all can enjoy, who are planning their vacation for the French 
Are you planning for a camping trip this year? Already shopping at your favourite retailers and outdoor suppliers? Are you prepared?
Something that I’m sure has been bothering many, or at least gaining interest, is the rising concern for the Zika Virus. We have been hearing about it on TV, in newspapers, and even the various social networks. Various media outlets are bringing to light different advisory warnings for those traveling to countries with the outbreaks. While various regions all over the world are still in their winter seasons the virus will have a harder time spreading until spring peaks with the mosquito population.
Do not fret! This short article will detail import things you should know about the virus and ways you can stay healthy in the great outdoors!
The most common way to contract the virus is from mosquito bites. According to the Centers for Disease Co 
"Ever since I was a young boy I always had fond memories heading north and fishing with my brother in Ontario," says Art Barefoot (Co-Owner of Bear's Den Lodge). "From the people, the sights, and even the thrill hearing the reel squeal from another fight with a fish. It was paradise and I wanted to be part of it."
"Life wasn't always easy growing up in a humble Pennsylvanian farmstead, but I knew after my first voyage north that I wanted to be an outfitter."
[caption id="attachment_1093" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Owner & Chef Art Barefoot providing laugher and warm meals[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_1094" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Line Class World Record Muskie Holder Art Barefoot explains the Muskie fishery and structure of how to fish the French River to Bill Hamblin (center) and long time guests Chris and Harry.[/caption]
"Through high school I w 
French River Delta landscape of granite rock, pine trees and more to appreciate.
Does nature inspire you? If yes, Bear's Den Lodge would like to share an inspiring "place" some call a "special place", a "simple life" and to others, it is a "bit of heaven on earth" for the past 90 years. This diamond, or jewel in the North provides you the opportunity to become a part of a significant part of Canadian history some 400 years ago during Champlain's journey through the French River.
Imagine journeying these corridors 400 years ago in a canoe with Champlain. New and adventurous waters lay ahead; not knowing what nature had in store. Between these magnificent granite rocks with white quartz blazes were sparkling diamonds in the blue water reflecting the magnificent sky and landscape it enjoyed. Today, being a protected and the first Canadian Heritage Provincial Park it remains much unc 
Looking at some old photographs, I remember the pride in purchasing the very first wooden boat for Bear's Den Lodge some thirty years ago, it was the brightest pride and smoothest, fastest ride in the French River Delta. Wooden boats were a labor of love.
Pictured here are the memories of those who passed through the history before us. As the memory projects, the previous owners tired of the hours of labor and love to maintain these wooden boats. The old fleet currently rests not on the bank where we sadly found them beyond restoration, but in the cove to be a reminder of the days gone by, but not forgotten.
Gone, But Not Forgotten
Check out our current Bear's Den Lodge fleet. 
Do you have that special outdoor lover and need a special gift for the holidays? Have you bought every lure possible for the tackle box? Christmas is closing in quickly and still don't know what to do? Now is the time to plan that special event for that special person or difficult gift idea.
Bear's Den Lodge is a unique place to share a special gift idea from. For the holidays, Bear's Den Lodge is offering a totally, "Make your Own Fishing Package Idea". You can create that one of a kind gift for that special person. The options are endless and the imagination is the lead.
You can create a Personalized Self-guided Fishing American Plan Meal Package to a "Fully-Pampered" Guided American Plan Meal Package or mix it up and do your own meals in a French River Housekeeping Cottage. The lodge outfitters offer 30 years of experience to create daily adventures and give advice on where and 
Welcome to the Bear's Den Lodge Blog.
Bear's Den Lodge posts will take you on a journey from the history of the French River, to stories, nature, fishing tips, great food, adventures and just pure beauty of Ontario to discover.
Would you like to jump on board with us as we take you on an outdoor adventure into the "simple life" that Bear's Den Lodge has to offer?
Bear's Den Lodge leaves the pavement behind, so jump in.
Share your experiences and take the adventure challenge!
Visit our website too. 
Can you guess why the bowfin is emerald green? Bowfin or sometimes referred to as "Dogfish" come in a variety of shapes and at times colours. Their bodies are generally cylindrical and eel
READ MORE >
Leave the city behind and challenge yourself with a remarkable French River Provincial Park getaway for Canada 150. Would you like to experience fishing in Ontario Parks? Canada was nominated as #
READ MORE >
Ashley Rae of shelovestofish.com, is a multi-fish species female angler and an accomplished well known Canadian outdoor writer from Ontario. Between the times writing as a newspaper/magazine columnist
READ MORE >
Bear’s Den Lodge, a number one tourism full-service business in the French River, Municipality of Killarney area, has gone through a major transformation over the past 35 years. Since 1986, the dai
READ MORE >
As the long winter is nearing its chilly end and the warm spring around the corner, many anglers are preparing their fishing gear for the new year. On the third Saturday, May 19th, Walleye and Norther
READ MORE >Partners
-
Since 1982, the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been dedicated to supporting Ontario’s non-profits who drive positive change.
-
Destination Northern Ontario is one of 13 not-for-profit regional tourism organizations funded by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. We are the largest tourism region in geography, the second largest in expenditure and the only region that includes sub-regions.
Destination Northern Ontario coordinates, aligns and invests in sub-regional programs and leads in identified pan-northern management functions; co-ordination of marketing, product development, workforce and industry training, and investment attraction with the ultimate goal to significantly increase tourism revenues in Northern Ontario. Increased visitation and yield are achieved by delivering programs designed to enhance existing tourism products and developing new tourism opportunities for the North. -
CFN is all about showcasing Canadian Fishing & fishing responsibly. If you have the same passion, join our mission. Supply us with articles, pictures or videos and whenever possible join us at shows and help spread the love of fishing.
-
Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative. Healthy & Sustainable Food System.
-
Events, news, visiting French River, Ontario & Land of the Voyagers.
-
Conservation & Education Georgian Bay Biosphere.
-
The Great Canadian Wilderness, Just North of Toronto. Head Out for Adventure!
-
Welcome to the Northern Ontario Tourism Industry information website.
-
TNO is the largest of 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) funded by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
-
North America’s Premier Fishing & Destination Show!
-
From the French River to the James Bay Coast, there is no denying our Northeastern region is BIG.
-
Great cities, great attractions, great outdoors – so many possibilities in all four seasons. Explore the possibilities in Northern Ontario.
-
GCFA has had the pleasure of teaching & sharing fishing experiences with female anglers from all over Canada.
-
Explore fishing, cottages & resorts on the French River, Canada.
-
A river of national historic significance, the French River is the first designated Canadian Heritage River
-
Welcome to Destination Canada’s official travel guide to Canada. Bienvenue dans le guide touristique officiel de Destination Canada.
-
Situated at the entrance to the North Channel amidst sparkling white quartzite peaks and pink granite
-
Make sure you check the Ontario Parks before heading out
Latest Promotion
YOUR Canadian COTTAGE FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY! French River Cottages available May, 2021 - 0ctober 2021. 3 day minimum charge per person applies. Prevailing rates available for shorter stays. Less than 3 days have added charges and are available. Make memories with family and friends on the French River, arrive as guests and leave as family!
View Promotion
Your hosts, Art & Brenda Barefoot
Bear's Den Lodge
2870J Hartley Bay Rd.
Alban, Ont. P0M 1A0
Tel: (705) 857-2757
Winter Address:
124 Shagbark Rd.
Alum Bank, PA 15521
Tel: (814) 839-2443
Connect with us
