Size, Depth, Boating Rules, Fish Species, Public Access & What It’s Known For
Lake Eugenia is the largest inland lake in Grey County and one of the most recognizable lakes in Grey Highlands. Set along the Niagara Escarpment in the Beaver Valley, it’s a four-season lake that attracts a mix of full-time residents, recreational boaters, anglers, and families who value space, scenery, and accessibility.
This post focuses on clear, factual information about Lake Eugenia to help you understand what makes it unique.
Some Quick Facts:
Lake type: Man-made reservoir
Location: Grey Highlands, Grey County, Ontario
Waterway: Beaver River
Surface area: Approximately 1,787 acres
Shoreline length: Approximately 14.9 miles
Lake Eugenia is the largest inland body of water in the county, which gives it a noticeably more open feel compared to smaller lakes in the area.
Lake Depth
Lake Eugenia is generally shallow, with deeper water near the dam.
Average depth: Approximately 4.6 feet
Maximum depth: Approximately 40 feet
This depth profile contributes to warmer water temperatures in summer and supports a wide range of recreational use.
How Lake Eugenia Was Created
Lake Eugenia is not a natural lake.
It was created in the early 1900s when the Beaver River was dammed as part of a hydroelectric power project. Construction began around 1912, and by 1915 the surrounding land had flooded, forming the lake as it exists today.
The project reshaped the Beaver Valley and transformed former farmland into a large reservoir. The dam and water system were later rebuilt in the 1960s, resulting in minor changes to water levels.
Fish Species in Lake Eugenia
Lake Eugenia supports a variety of warm-water and cold-water fish species and is a popular recreational fishing destination.
Commonly found species include:
Smallmouth bass
Largemouth bass
Yellow perch
Rainbow trout (stocked)
Rock bass
Sunfish
Bullhead catfish
Fishing conditions vary by season, with bass fishing popular in summer and trout activity often stronger during cooler periods.
Boating on Lake Eugenia
Motorized boating: Permitted
Lake Eugenia supports a wide range of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, personal watercraft, kayaks, and canoes.
There is no single lake-wide horsepower limit posted, but boaters are expected to follow provincial boating regulations, posted signage, and no-wake zones, particularly near shorelines and swimming areas.
Public Access, Boat Launch & Beach
Lake Eugenia has one primary public access point, located in the community of Eugenia.
This public access includes:
A municipal boat launch
A designated swimming beach
Parking
Picnic space
Most of the remaining shoreline around Lake Eugenia is privately owned.
Public Access Map
You can view the public beach and boat launch here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6HogEEmePw6cH7gr7
What Lake Eugenia Is Known For
Lake Eugenia is best known for:
Being the largest inland lake in Grey County
A balance of active boating and quieter shoreline areas
Recreational fishing for bass, perch, and trout
Scenic views connected to the Beaver Valley and Niagara Escarpment
Proximity to hiking, including nearby Bruce Trail access points
Its size gives it a more open, expansive feel than many inland lakes, while still maintaining a strong sense of community.
A Local Perspective
Lake Eugenia tends to appeal to people who want space, views, and the ability to enjoy the lake without any boating restrictions across all four seasons. It offers a mix of seasonal cottages and year-round homes, with nearby towns providing everyday services without feeling far removed from nature.
It’s a lake people choose when they want room to breathe, on and off the water.
