Algonquin & Beyond

Shirley Lake – Campsite #3

When I first arrived at this site I wasn’t sure if I should love it or hate it. It’s very large, open, and spacious, which are all things that I love. It also has a very accessible beach landing… another +1. The fire pit and seating get neutral points here, maybe slightly above average…. let’s call it a +0.5. There’s also enough flat ground to pitch 10 tents, not that you’d ever need that much space. BUT, and it’s a big “but”, the whole campsite had a root fire beneath it at some point. Almost all of the trees are black at the base and the bottom half of the trees are dead. A ton have fallen over, and most of the fallen trees have been chopped to the stump for firewood. This explains why the site is so open and spacious. So it definitely ruins the aesthetic of the site, although on the plus side it means unlimited firewood directly at the site. You also need to look upwards and be cautious of widowmakers. Lastly, the thunder box is right in the middle of the site. Like, completely in view from everywhere. For most groups this would be annoying, but since I was there solo, it was actually super convenient!

(Click on the images to view larger)

Map of Shirley Lake and campsites in Algonquin Park
Map of campsites
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 fire pit and seating area
Fire pit and seating
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 interior of the campsite 1
Interior of site
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 interior of the campsite 2
Interior of site
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 trees black at the base from root fire
Root fire
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 tent spot 1
Tent spot
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 tent spot 2
Tent spot
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 tent spot 3
Tent spot
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 tent spot 4
Tent spot
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 canoe landing
Canoe landing
Shirley Lake Algonquin Park Campsite 3 view of the campsite from the water
View from the water

* Images and information taken August 2021

* Algonquin Map courtesy of Jeff’s Maps

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