Jocko Lake has been one of the most loved destinations at Land’escapes since day one. We’ve made this short write-up to summarize everything you need to know about planning your own trip.
There is only one way to reach the lake, on foot! As with all trips at Land’escapes, you will hike from a parking lot to a canoe cache or campsite. The Wetlands Run, marked in Pink, is the trail you’ll follow to reach the lake.
There are two hikes you can take to start your trip. Our team rates both options as relaxed. There are no water crossings, and the trail is well established, clearly marked, and regularly maintained.
Option 1: Gatehouse Hike
Hike 2.6 km from the gatehouse to the canoe cache. This route is ideal if you’d like to park at the main entrance.
Option 2: Mackenzie Lane Hike
Hike 1.7 km from the parking lot on Mackenzie Lane. This shorter, more direct route is perfect for those looking to save time.
Once you reach the canoe cache, pick up your canoe and paddle across the lake to your campsite.
Canoe Details
Our canoes are Nova Craft Prospector 16 models, each seating up to three people. They will be stored near the lakeshore, upside down, with all the essentials inside. Each canoe includes: three lifejackets (clipped to the seats), a bailing, bucket bailing buck, and a floating rope.
Alternatively, continue hiking on the Wetlands Run (pink trail) or the Jocko Lake Loop (red trail) to access your campsite on foot.
Choosing A Campsite
There are four campsites on Jocko Lake to choose from. All are accessible from the lake and from the trail.
Campsite 180 – A Sunny, south-facing campsite that’s great for swimming and lounging in the sun. It’s also surrounded by maple and beach trees and is close to the canoe cache.
Campsite 181 – This is the most spacious option, with three tent pads on the site. Everyone can gather around the fire pit, which has a view of the lake and is perfect for cooking on.
Campsite 182 – Features a rocky shoreline, and a beautiful fire pit. This site has a large tent pad, ideal for families, and is shady and cool in summer with lovely sunset views.
Campsite 183 – This cozy, smaller site is perfect for hammock camping with beautiful sunset views.
What to do During Your Trip
Hiking
Jocko Lake Loop is a relaxed hike that takes you around the lake, through upland forest, and grassy wetlands and over a couple of fun water crossings. Explore the lake in about 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace and interests.
Lac Randonné is a short hike from Jocko Lake and an excellent area to go bird watching or spot wildlife. A canoe is available to explore the wetland beyond the lake. Follow the Wetlands Run trail southeast to reach Lac Randonné, making it a fun half-day outing or a 1-2 hour hike.
Wetlands Run, marked in pink, is a challenging trail and a great adventure for ambitious hikers. Make Jocko Lake your first stop and then continue to Fish Lake and Twomile Lake for a two or three-day trip. At just under 20km, this trail is a great challenge for the experienced hiker.
Fishing
Jocko Lake is an excellent bass fishing lake. Keep a canoe at your campsite to head out on the water during the morning or evening, when the fishing is best. You will quickly find out why we hold our annual fishing derby here!
