Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a stay at Trappers Cottage? Find answers about getting here, what to bring, and the facilities available at the cottage and on Atwood Island.

Where is Trappers Cottage?

Trappers Cottage is on Atwood Island in the Lower French River Provincial Park area of Ontario, Canada. It is one of 12 privately owned cottages on the eight-acre island.

Can I drive directly to the cottage?

No. Atwood Island is accessible only by boat or float plane. Our Travel / Directions page provides driving directions to Smith’s Marina and Hartley Bay Marina. Contact us before your trip to confirm your arrival arrangements.

How do I check availability or reserve the cottage?

Contact Bill to discuss your preferred dates and reservation arrangements. Call 804-358-8301 or use the email option below.

Where can I find rates, occupancy limits, and reservation policies?

Please review the Rates & Policies section on our homepage for current details, including deposits and cancellations. Confirm your group size and reservation terms with Bill before booking.

What amenities does the cottage have?

Trappers Cottage includes a kitchen, dishwasher, microwave oven, full bathroom, BBQ grill, large screened porch, music system, and oil stove. It also has a five-gallon water-jug cooler and is the closest cottage to the dock. Visit Cottage Information for more details.

Is there electricity and Wi-Fi?

Yes. The cottage has electricity 24 hours a day and free Wi-Fi.

Do I need to bring sheets and towels?

Yes. Bring single-bed sheets, towels, and your personal toiletries.

What else should I pack?

Bring food and beverages for your stay. Recommended items include flashlights, a portable cooler for the boat, fishing gear, rainwear, sturdy shoes or boots, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Pack warm layers, especially for spring and fall visits. See General Information for the packing list.

What shared facilities are available on the island?

Atwood Island has a laundry room and a game room with a pool table, table shuffleboard, darts, board games, and foosball. Gasoline and guide services are also available. See Island Amenities for more information.

Is someone available on the island if I need assistance?

Yes. Atwood Island has a 24/7 on-site manager and caretaker. Guests are asked to let the manager know their daily travel plans and report any accidents.

Are pets allowed?

No. Pets are not allowed at Trappers Cottage.

Are boats and life jackets supplied?

A cabin boat rental is available as an option for an additional fee. Adult life jackets are supplied. Please bring your children’s life jackets to ensure a proper fit. Contact Bill about boat rental arrangements.

Is drinking water supplied?

Yes. Water for the cottage’s five-gallon water cooler is supplied. We recommend also bringing half-gallon bottles of water for making ice cubes and washing vegetables.

What cleaning and garbage disposal tasks are required?

Guests are trusted to leave the cottage in good condition. A Miele vacuum and the necessary cleaning products are provided.

Place garbage in the regular-size kitchen trash container, then empty it into the large garbage can on the deck. At the end of your stay, take the large trash bag to the big bin at the boathouse. Trappers is the closest cottage to the dock and boathouse.

What are the check-in and checkout times?

Check-in is after 2:00 p.m. Checkout is before noon on the day of departure.

How can I help protect the septic system?

Please follow these guidelines during your stay:

  • Scrape leftover food from plates into the trash before placing them in the dishwasher.
  • Wipe grease off plates, pots, and pans before putting them in the dishwasher.
  • Use the supplied single-ply toilet paper. Please do not bring two-ply toilet paper.
  • Do not use antibacterial hand, body, or dish soaps. Suitable dish soap is provided. Ivory or Dove hand and body soaps are acceptable, provided they are not antibacterial.

Where can guests access the water for swimming?

Swimming access is from the dock only. There is no beach area for swimming.

Is smoking allowed?

We strongly prefer a smoke-free stay because of the risk of fire. Smoking is not permitted inside Trappers Cottage. Guests who wish to smoke must obtain the owner’s approval before arrival and confirm where outdoor smoking is permitted. Cigarette butts must be fully extinguished and placed in a suitable fire-safe receptacle, never discarded on the ground or in the water. Smoking may be prohibited entirely when fire conditions warrant.

Where can I see pictures before booking?

Visit Cottage Information for cottage photos. Our Gallery also includes three collections: Shore Lunch and the Great Outdoors, Beautiful Fish, and Views from the Porch.