Karhusaari Island, an oasis in the middle of the city, is an all-year-round destination, at a distance of about 1 km from the harbour of Lappeenranta. It is one of the geosites of Saimaa Unesco Global Geopark Lappeenranta.

On the island visitors can go on the nature trail and enjoy the lay-bys with campfire along the way. The lean-to shelter on the rocks of the southern shore of Karhusaari Island has room for a large number of visitors. There's also outhouses near the lay-by.

On the south shore, there is a pier in front of the lean-to shelter for the use of boaters and canoeists in summer. In winter, when the ice of the lake is strong enough, you can ski or walk to the island from the Kaupunginlahti Bay. It is pleasant to sit at the lean-to shelter and admire the view opening out towards the centre of Lappeenranta.