Q. What does the Lodge provide in each cabin?

A. The lodge provides bed linens, pillows, blankets and bedspreads, bath towels, hand towels, washcloths and kitchen towels.  Liquid hand soap is provided in the bathroom, and dish soap in the kitchen.  Kitchens have electric coffee makers and microwaves in addition to the stove and refrigerator.  Coffee filters and paper towels are provided, within reason.  Kitchens are stocked with dishes, flatware, cups, glasses, cooking utensils and pots and pans.  Salt and pepper shakers are also provided in each cabin.  There is a gas grill on each cabin’s deck.

Q. What else should I bring?

A. Turner’s General Store was closed in 1996, so you need to bring all your supplies with you.  Besides your food, be sure to bring drinking water, as the cabins are plumbed with untreated lake water only.  Also bring bath soap, personal toiletries, mosquito repellent, sunscreen and beach towels.  Water shoes are important if you plan to get in the lake, as most of the shore is rocky.  Remember film for the camera, a flashlight with extra batteries, and binoculars can be useful, too.  While we would like to provide fair weather for our guests, Mother Nature does not always cooperate; so bring a game or other rainy day activity.

Q. Where is the nearest grocery store?

A. There are two supermarkets on Hwy. 6 in Espanola, about a half hour north of Birch Island.  Little Current, about 15 minutes south, has a smaller supermarket and a grocery store, across the street from each other on Hwy. 6.  J&G Marina at Birch Island carries some grocery items.

Q. Where can I get a fishing license?

A. In Espanola, Canadian Tire sells fishing licenses at the courtesy desk.  You can also get one at Wally’s Dock Service in Little Current, on Water Street across from the Bank of Montreal. For information about fishing licenses and regulations for Zone 14, please click this link to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources:  http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/LetsFish/2ColumnSubPage/STEL02_164832.html

Q. Where can I get ice?

A. Ice can be obtained at the lodge for $3 per bag, block or cube.

Q. Where can I buy gasoline?

A. If you bring your own boat, gasoline may be purchased at J&G Marina or Still Water Marina, both at Birch Island.  Fuel tanks for McGregor Bay Lodge rental boats will be filled at McGregor Bay Lodge.

Q. Are there laundry facilities at the Lodge?

A. Yes, there is a washer and dryer that guests may use for $5/load, including soap and fabric softener.  Alternatively, there are public Laundromats in both Little Current and Espanola.