About

Tradition And Comfort at Miners' Bay Lodge

Cherished Since 1938

Miners’ Bay Lodge (MBL) is a cherished seasonal lodge and resort that holds a special place in the hearts of many. For the hundreds of guest families who consider MBL their “second home,” the lodge represents much more than a traditional summer retreat. It embodies enduring values of tradition and offers a family-friendly vacation experience that has consistently drawn guests back, year after year.

55 Acre Property

2 Private Beaches

2 Tennis Courts

A Legacy of Lakeside Leisure

Miners’ Bay Lodge (MBL) boasts a rich and notable history, deeply committed to preserving the warm family and community atmosphere that delights both first-time visitors and generations of returning guests.

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Gull Lake, Miners’ Bay has long been a captivating tourist destination. The lodge’s story began in 1912 when the Percy family chose Gull Lake over Muskoka for their annual retreat, a tradition that continues today.

In 1938, the Wunker family acquired the Bay View Hotel, renaming it Miners’ Bay Lodge and expanding it significantly. For eighty years, three generations of Wunkers managed the lodge, crafting the memorable “MBL experience” for thousands.

In 2018, Russ and Dottie Wunker retired, passing the stewardship to a group of long-time guests dedicated to continuing its legacy.

We warmly invite you to join us and become a part of the MBL experience!

Discover Why Our Guests Return Year After Year

Discover the highlights and hidden gems of our services as described by our guests. Their detailed reviews shed light on the quality and atmosphere of their stays, providing you with a trustworthy guide.

Miners' Bay Lodge

4.8

Based on 248 reviews

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Mary Kruger

We camped here for one night and the only camper spot while visiting relatives and it is such a beautiful spot. Everyone there is so friendly and kind. We have not stayed inside the Lodge but have seen the rooms and they are lovely and quaint.

Sharon Zahniser

A couple suggestions for the dining room1. Leave the coffee pots (reg and decaf) on a side table. With only 1 server in the morning, getting coffee was slow and some people are grumpy when they don’t get their coffee.2. Do the same with the ketchup in the morning. By the time I got my ketchup, my breakfast was almost over.

Deb

This place is a time capsule. Wonderful to sit back and forget about responsibilities for a short time. New management must not forget about maintenance of physical plant.The wood continues to age and painting goes a long way..First arrived at Miners Bay in 1959..Keep it as it was. Protect it and visitors will always return.RespectfullyAl/Debbie Day

Bryan Shannon

The only issue we had was portion size at meals. We got basically the same size meal as adults as the 2 oyr old at our table. If you had sizes, you could reduce wasted food. Thank you for a great time

Michael Fyrsta

Great place to be in nature with the family. Very welcoming team that will ensure you and your family have a great visit

This is a vacation spot worth driving to.... myself and my family have come here 26 years in a row...a step back in time.... you get your cabin or room.... meals included are breakfast and dinner.....more than enough to satisfy.... you get to meet people from throughout Canada and America..... Colorado to Florida.... pristine water on 2 lakes..Gull lake and Round lake... hiking, fishing,nature trails all on the property!!if you long to relax or take your kids for a wonderful memorable vacation... this is the spot... and with the exchange rate running around 35%...it's a deal.

Our Rich History

David Galloway moved from Norland to Miners' Bay in the 1870's, and set up a saw mill in the creek.

Around 1875 he constructed this farm house and he became Miners' Bay's first Post Master in 1908. In those days, this building served as residence, store and Post Office.

Originally, the structure sat where the MBL Tea Room is now situated. It was moved to the current location when the MBL Winter House was erected in the 1930's. This building is now known as MBL staff cabin # 5.

This is what MBL looked like a century ago, c. 1918! The Cameron Road was a colonization road that had reached Moore's Falls by the mid 1860's and in 1867 the road was extended to what is now MBL.

A wooden pole bridge crossed the Round Lake Creek at Miners' Bay and continued on to Minden. During WWI, the first part of the Main Lodge was constructed to accommodate tourists who were starting to visit the area

Before it became Miners' Bay Lodge, the property was originally known as the Bay View Hotel.

Over time, the hotel transformed into the lodge, retaining its charm and welcoming atmosphere. The lodge has maintained its commitment to providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience for guests, evolving from its historic roots while preserving the natural beauty and serene environment that have always been its hallmark.

This rich history adds to the lodge's unique character and appeal, offering visitors a blend of tradition and modern comfort.

In 1938, the Wunker family purchased the Bay View Hotel and renamed it Miners' Bay Lodge. The original accommodations consisted of four cottages, the farm house/post office (cottage 5), seven rooms in the winter house and 19 rooms in the lodge building.

That first season in July of 1938 started off slowly, and questions lingered as to whether the business would be a success. The family held on to grocery boxes just in case they would need to give up the Lodge after the first season. However, the business began to catch on and the grocery boxes were discarded, and Miners' Bay Lodge was an established institution

This image captures the evolving yet enduring traditions at Miners' Bay Lodge (MBL). At first glance, it appears to depict a Stunt Nite from the 1950s, traditionally held on the stage every Thursday evening. However, this performer seems to have taken her act to the main floor, suggesting this may have been a special performance.

In the early days, the Rec Hall often hosted various events and activities, especially when guests with unique talents were staying at the Lodge. This flexibility in venue use showcases how MBL has adapted over the years while maintaining its cherished traditions. © Russ Wunker

For those interested in the history of Miners' Bay Lodge, Russ Wunker's "The First Fifty Years" is available for purchase in the MBL Gift Shop.

Additionally, follow us on social media for #wunkerwednesday updates, where we share fascinating historical insights and stories from the lodge's past.

These resources provide a deeper look into the lodge's rich heritage and evolution, offering a unique perspective on its journey from the Bay View Hotel to the beloved Miners' Bay Lodge of today.