Our Islands

While there are approximately 31 islands on Otty Lake, 11 are “patented” or deeded to private owners. The remaining 20 Islands are considered “Crown Owned”; are owned by the provincial government and managed by Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).  MNR promotes a free use policy of Crown Lands and focuses on positive messaging, emphasizing good stewardship.  

Cloverleaf Island is the most prominent of the Crown Islands on Otty, is relatively central and includes a good beach on one side which is a favourite location for recreation and socialization on the lake.   Before tying up your boat on any island to go ashore, please ensure you are on public land and not private property.  It is your responsibility to know which is which and respect the difference.

General Comment

We are sharing the islands (and indeed the whole lake) with our families, each other and with future generations.  Hence, below are some guidelines for the use of these islands.

Litter

• Please do not litter, take your garbage with you.  Respect the land.
• Please do not bring glass containers.  Broken glass can harm people as well as wildlife.
• On leaving make sure your site is clean and tidy for others to enjoy.

Open Fires

• Be aware of area ‘fire ban’ notices – call the Fire Hall at 613-267-2596.
• Never leave an open fire unattended.
• Do not cut down trees to make a fire, use dead fall or charcoal.
• Set a fire in a safe location using fire pits where established.
• It is recommended that you do not bring your own firewood due to spread of arboreal diseases.
• Ensure that your fire is completely extinguished before leaving the site.  Fires not properly extinguished can flare up days later.  Fire Emergency – 613-276-2030.

Courtesy

• Sound carries across water.  Keep the noise level down and refrain from activities that may annoy others.

Wildlife

• Do not feed wildlife or leave food on the ground.
• Birds (including loons) wisely select crown islands as locations for nesting due to absence of domestic animals.  Restrain any dogs and cats which accompany you to an island. 

Overnight Camping

• Overnight camping is discouraged due to lack of toilet facilities and littering or damage to trees and underbrush.
• Camping is illegal on smaller islands (less than 200 feet in diameter) unless portable toilets are used.

For more information, see Recreational Activities on Crown Land.