Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

There’s a reason Lake Superior has been referred to as an inland ocean and you’ll discover that for yourself when you visit this immensely beautiful Great Lake. Called gichigamiing or “The Big Lake” by the Anishinaabe people of the region and known for its furious storms, the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area will soon be recognized as one of the largest protected areas of fresh water in the world.

Featured things to do

A view of Lake Superior

Guided Activites

Nature, science, art, history, stories... we've got you covered.


A aerial view of a boat at an island

Sail into the heart of Superior

Explore the vast waters of Lake Superior.

Terrace Bay Beach Pavilion

Terrace Bay Beach Pavilion

Escape the elements and join staff at the Terrace Bay Beach Pavilion.

Visiting the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

Activities and Experiences

Fishing, hiking, red chairs, kayaking, and sailing.

Plan your visit

Getting here, location, hours of operation, fees, facilities and services, and quick facts,

Fees

Program fees, and more.

About the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

Nature and science

Conservation, environment, research, geology, islands, and species.

Indigenous connections

Indigenous People of the North Shore, First Nations, and the Métis.

Stewardship and management

Site management, plans, and policies, and newsletters.

Contact us

Phone: 807-887-5467
Email: amnclacsuperieur-lakesuperiornmca@pc.gc.ca

Hours of operation

The area is accessible year-round

Nipigon Admin and Visitor Centre – Open year round

Terrace Bay Visitor Centre – Open mid-June to Thanksgiving

Complete schedule

Social

More places to discover with Parks Canada

Pukaskwa National Park

This is Ontario’s only wilderness national park, defined by pink-and-slate granite shores, Great Lake temperaments and near-endless stretches of spruce, fir, pine and hardwoods. Biodiverse coastal regions—where wetland, lake and forest meet—are home to iconic Canadian species like bald eagles, moose and bears.

Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site

Tour the Sault Ste. Marie Canal with an informative Parks Canada guide and you’ll soon understand the vitally important role this innovative piece of engineering made to water transportation in Canada. 

Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site

Visit Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site, 92 km south east of Sault Ste. Marie on the southern tip of St. Joseph Island, to learn about the once-vital British stronghold on Upper Canada’s western front.

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