Ipperwash Beach
From the serene and sandy lakeside to the friendly rental cottage communities, Ipperwash Beach is a hidden gem worth the visit. Quiet and relaxation can be found in abundance here.
Ipperwash Beach is one of the longest freshwater beaches in Ontario. It features soft sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for splashing, swimming and building sandcastles. Find inviting activities for the whole family or enjoy some alone time in secluded spaces.
This beach has a fascinating history worth discovering. As you explore the area, admire gorgeous sunsets, spot unique birds and visit nearby charming villages.
Ipperwash Beach | Fabio Cardona
How to get to Ipperwash Beach
Location: Ipperwash Beach, Lambton Shores
By car: Use Highway 403 or Highway 401 to reach Ipperwash Beach. Three main access points lead to the beach itself off West Ipperwash Road, Army Camp Road and Ipperwash Road in Ipperwash.
Free parking is available at Ministry-owned lots along West Parkway Drive and East Parkway Drive.
Know before you go
There are no lifeguards on duty at Ipperwash Beach. Refrain from climbing the dunes as this can damage them and harm fragile local ecosystems.
Respect privately owned properties along the beach and stay in the public beach area. Use the Ipperwash Information Board to find washrooms and free parking locations.
Things to do at Ipperwash Beach
Discover more activities and experiences.
Have fun in the sun
Go swimming, sunbathing or beachcombing on the beautiful shores of Ipperwash Beach. Start your day with the quiet morning atmosphere of sunrise and end it by admiring a gorgeous sunset.
Explore a local trail
Take a relaxing walk on the 5.5-kilometre Ipperwash Dunes and Swales trail. Enjoy scenic views as you explore the Carolinian Forest of sand ridges and wet swales via a boardwalk.
Spend time in nature
Experience the beauty of sandy beaches, rich forests and coastal wetlands on the Lambton Shores Nature Trails. Bring your binoculars or a camera to spot an abundance of birds.
Articles and itineraries
Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.
Interesting facts about Ipperwash Beach
The history of the area is an integral part of Ipperwash Beach. The Ipperwash Crisis was a major land dispute over the former Ipperwash Provincial Park in 1995. Members of the Stoney Point Chippewas (Anishnaabeg) occupied the park to assert their claim to the land which had been expropriated from the people during World War II.
The dispute resulted in the tragic death of Dudley George, an unarmed Ojibwa man. In 2010, a memorial was unveiled on Ipperwash Beach to remember George. In 2015, the Chippewas of Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation accepted a settlement from the federal government that included the return of the land.
Last updated: June 17, 2024