It takes just a few minutes to reach Lake Haute Mayenne from Camping Parc de Vaux. And yet, when you arrive at its shores, you really feel as if you’ve entered a whole new world. A 123-hectare body of water, surrounded by forests and meadows, with that kind of silence you can only find by the water, far from the noise of the city.
It’s one of the region’s most remarkable attractions. And for those staying at the campground, it’s an outing we often repeat throughout the week—because every time, we discover something different depending on the light, the time of day, and what we feel like doing.
A pristine lake in an exceptional natural setting
Lake Haute Mayenne is nestled in a pristine natural setting. It is not a man-made lake designed like an amusement park; rather, it is a living body of water whose wooded shores are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Herons, kingfishers, and otters have been spotted in the area, and dense aquatic vegetation thrives in the calm coves. Visitors with cameras or binoculars will find just as much to enjoy here as outdoor enthusiasts.
The hiking trails that circle the lake let you explore its shores on foot, with several scenic overlooks and designated picnic areas. It’s also a lovely bike ride, accessible from the campground via pleasant trails.
Water Activities on the Lake
The Vaux Recreation Center offers a variety of water activities during the summer season. It’s not a place where you go for an adrenaline rush—it’s a place where you learn to move around on the water, at your own pace, in an environment that makes everything easier.
Kayaking and Canoeing — The lake’s calm waters are ideal for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. You can paddle along the shores, stop at quiet coves, and observe wildlife from the water. For families, canoeing makes it easy to bring along even the youngest children.
Pedal Boats — For those who simply want to enjoy the water without too much effort, pedal boats offer a leisurely way to get out from the shore and take in the scenery.
Stand-up paddleboarding — SUP is becoming increasingly popular; it requires a bit of balance and offers a lot of fun. The calm, wave-free waters of the lake make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Sailing and Dinghies — For experienced sailors or those just curious, dinghies and windsurfing boards are available depending on what the recreation center has on hand. Ask for details on site during the season.
Supervised Swimming — A designated swimming area is marked off and supervised during the summer season, allowing families with children to enjoy the water safely.
Hike Around the Lake
The trails that run along Lake Haute Mayenne are among the most accessible and enjoyable hikes in the region. The trails are well-maintained, and the elevation changes are moderate. This is a hike you can enjoy as a family—with children as young as 5 or 6—while taking the time to stop, observe, and listen.
The views from the hills overlooking the lake allow you to appreciate the full scope of this natural space and its place in the Mayenne landscape. At the end of the day, when the low-angle light bathes the water’s surface in a golden glow, these spots have a rather rare quality.
The Mayenne Tourist Office offers detailed itineraries. Maps are also available at the campground’s front desk.
Fishing at the Lake
Lake Haute Mayenne is also an excellent fishing spot. The calm areas of the coves and wooded shores are ideal for leisurely fishing, whether you’re looking for game fish or simply there to enjoy the peace and quiet that fishing provides.
Fishing licenses are available at the front desk of Camping Parc de Vaux.
Directions and Practical Information
Distance from the campground: about 4 km (a few minutes by car; accessible by bike via a trail) Supervised
swimming: During the summer season, in a designated area Water
activities: Available through the Vaux Recreation Center (information at the campground reception desk)
Hiking: Marked trails around the lake—maps available at the reception desk or the Tourist Office
Fishing: Fishing permits for sale at the campground reception desk
An idea for a day out around the lake
In the morning, an hour or two of kayaking or hiking along the lakeside trails. A picnic break at one of the designated picnic areas, with a view of the lake. In the afternoon, supervised swimming or stand-up paddleboarding. At the end of the day, head back to the campground to enjoy the terrace and the atmosphere at the snack bar.
On days like that—with no set schedule or mandatory activities—that’s often the first thing kids mention when asked what they liked best about their vacation.
Ready to spend a day by the lake?
Stay at Camping Parc de Vaux and enjoy the Haute Mayenne Lake just a stone’s throw away. Family chalets, mobile homes, campsites, or tent sites—book the accommodation that’s right for you.
