Severn River

Severn River

Size

Central Ontario, connecting Lake Couchiching to Georgian Bay via the Trent–Severn Waterway

Lifestyle

Location

~30 km of navigable water

Mix of seasonal cottages and year-round waterfront homes

Vibe

Quiet, natural, and boating-focused

Water Access

Part of the Trent–Severn Waterway - direct boating to Muskoka and Georgian Bay

About Severn River

The Severn River is a key connector in Ontario’s Trent–Severn Waterway, linking Lake Couchiching to Georgian Bay. Its calm waters and scenic banks make it a haven for boaters and anglers alike. Unlike Muskoka’s big lakes, the Severn River offers a quieter, nature-focused lifestyle, with less crowded waterways and plenty of wildlife.

For GTA buyers, the Severn River represents affordable waterfront living with excellent access to boating routes, marinas, and recreational activities - all within reach of Orillia and Barrie.

Lifestyle & Community

Life on the Severn River revolves around water:

Boating & Water Sports: Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and motorboating. The river’s calm currents are beginner-friendly.

Fishing: Popular for bass, pike, and perch. Ice fishing is also common in winter along certain stretches.

Community: Small, tight-knit, and welcoming. The river flows past Orillia and smaller villages, offering a mix of services and seasonal charm.

Nature & Trails: Shoreline trails and parks provide outdoor recreation without the hustle of Muskoka.

This is a river for buyers who want waterfront lifestyle and access without the larger-lake crowds.

Demographics: Who Lives Along the Severn River

Year-Round Residents: Families and retirees who enjoy boating and natural surroundings.

Seasonal Owners: Summer cottages dominate, often with generational ownership.

Age Range: Families, active retirees, and weekenders from the GTA.

Buyer Profile: Boaters, anglers, and buyers looking for quieter, affordable waterfront property.

Community Vibe: Friendly and nature-oriented; neighbors often know each other along the river’s stretches.

River Stats

Average Depth

~30 km navigable stretch

Shoreline

Length

3–6 m (10–20 ft), varies by section

Meandering, natural shoreline with mixed private and public access

Waterfront Lot Sizes

Varies widely: 60-100 ft frontage common; larger acreages on rural stretches

Population

~10,000 in Severn Township; many seasonal residents along the river.

Water Access

Direct connection to Lake Couchiching, Lake Simcoe, Muskoka, and Georgian Bay

Notable Feature

Quiet river lifestyle with access to some of Ontario’s top boating routes

Boating

Locks and marinas provide passage for boats of varying sizes

Real Estate Snapshot

Price Range

Property Types

More affordable than Muskoka and Lake Simcoe waterfront; entry-level cottages start around $400k–$600k, larger year-round homes $800k–$1.5M+

A range of seasonal cottages, waterfront year-round homes and lots with private docks for boating.

Market

Families seeking a quieter lifestyle, retirees who enjoy boating, and first-time buyers entering the waterfront market

Stretching between Lake Couchiching and Georgian Bay, the Severn River provides diverse waterfront opportunities:

Is Severn Right for You?

Pros & Cons of Severn River

Pros

Calm waters, ideal for boating and fishing

More affordable than Muskoka or Simcoe waterfront

Strong access to the Trent–Severn Waterway

Peaceful, natural surroundings

Close to Orillia for amenities

Cons

Narrow in places; limited privacy in popular stretches

Seasonal water levels may vary

Less “prestige” than Muskoka’s Big 3

Smaller towns nearby mean fewer entertainment options

Boating & Sailing: Explore the Trent–Severn Waterway and connect to Lake Couchiching or Georgian Bay

Fishing & Ice Fishing: Bass, pike, and perch in summer; ice fishing in winter

Outdoor Recreation: Walking trails, parks, and waterfront picnics

Community Events: Seasonal fairs and small-town festivals along Orillia and riverfront villages

Things to Do Around the Severn River

Is the Severn River Right for You?

The Severn River is perfect if you want affordable waterfront living with boating access and natural surroundings. It’s quieter than Muskoka, easier on your budget than Lake Simcoe, but still offers the full lake lifestyle - fishing, boating, and summer escapes - for families, retirees, and first-time buyers alike.

Contact Us

Thinking about a cottage or home on the Severn River?

I’d love to guide you through available properties and help you find your perfect waterfront spot.

🏡 Free Waterfront Buyer Checklist

Buying on the water? Get your free checklist - it walks you through shoreline features, lot privacy, water systems and key red flags to watch for.

Includes occasional tips on local listings & lakes.