Matawatchan Township is located in the southwestern part of Renfrew County, bordered by rugged terrain and dense forest. Surveyed in the mid-19th century, it was one of the more isolated townships due to its challenging topography and distance from major settlement roads. Early development focused on logging and mineral exploration rather than agriculture, and much of the land was patented to timber interests rather than settlers.

Though sparsely populated, Matawatchan did host small mining operations, with claims staked in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It later attracted seasonal cottagers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty, lakes, and access to Crown lands.

For land surveyors, Matawatchan’s survey fabric reflects the tension between grid-based plans and topographic reality. Many lots remain unopened or uncleared, and road allowances are often impassable. Title records may involve overlapping resource claims and abandoned improvements. Original post locations are scarce, requiring reliance on geographic correlation and archival research.