Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in northeastern Ontario, Canada, the Chapleau Crown Game Preserve encompasses over 7,000 square kilometers of protected wilderness, making it the largest Crown game preserve in the world. Established in 1925, its primary purpose is to maintain and protect native wildlife populations free from hunting and trapping. The landscape is dominated by a mix of boreal forest, wetlands, lakes, and rivers, creating excellent habitat for species such as moose, black bear, beaver, lynx, and an abundance of birdlife including spruce grouse and loons. Its remote setting offers a largely pristine environment ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, fishers, canoeists, and backcountry explorers. The preserve has few developed facilities or maintained trails, encouraging a true wilderness experience. Lakes such as Chapleau Lake and Wabatongushi Lake are popular for paddling and fishing, harboring species like northern pike, walleye, and lake trout. Although hunting is prohibited, controlled trapping is allowed in some parts, supporting traditional local practices. Visitors are drawn by the chance to see abundant mammals and birds in a quiet and protected habitat. The preserve is accessed primarily from the town of Chapleau via forest roads and rail lines, with seasonal restrictions on some routes. Quiet, solitary camping and portaging are possible, with minimal infrastructure. The area also holds cultural significance for First Nations communities in the region. Overall, the Chapleau Crown Game Preserve offers a unique, extensive wilderness experience focused on wildlife preservation and low-impact recreation in Ontario’s northern boreal landscape.
