this post was submitted on 18 Aug 2025
186 points (98.9% liked)

What is this thing?

7298 readers
24 users here now

Let us help you identify that mysterious object you’ve found.

Currently in CHALLENGE mode: If you've got something obscure knocking about, post a picture, and let's see how we do. Please prefix such posts with "CHALLENGE:" so we know we've got a fighting chance.

founded 2 years ago
MODERATORS
 

Went to a camping in the Laurentians in Québec (Ste-Agathe) and there were those things near some camp sites. The sites are only accessible by footpaths. No car access. And if you bring a bike, you have to walk it up a hill, so I doubt they are bike racks.

EDIT: I have sent an email to the park and they have been kind enough to reply. It's just a type of fireplace with a grate. They didn't give more info than just this. Thanks to everyone for pitching in!

you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
[–] JackbyDev@programming.dev 18 points 2 weeks ago (2 children)

OP, none of the answers here are satisfactory. Please ask the rangers and update this post because this is fascinating.

Google Lens wasn't helpful, it compares it to things like drains and fences built around old markers (it specifically thought it was a Mason-Dixon line marker which is obviously incorrect). But this is not protecting anything and not a drain.

My guess is, if it's not something to tie a horse to, is maybe it's something to put animal feed in? But that's a wild guess, I don't really think it's right. Like shove a hay bake in. But you said only accessible by walking, so I really doubt it.

[–] pedz@lemmy.ca 15 points 2 weeks ago (2 children)

It looks like a park but it's a municipal camping with a forested area for tents. I will ask the employees when I go back, but I'm afraid they may also not know. I'm also tempted to call and ask directly but this gives me a reason to make another cycling trip "in the north".

[–] whyNotSquirrel@sh.itjust.works 6 points 2 weeks ago

how can I make sure to not miss the update??

[–] who@feddit.org 5 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

I hope you'll post what you learn as a new message in this community, so we all see it.

[–] Mpatch@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

Salt lick. Hunters use em for attracting animals. Takes time. You drop a big block of askt on the thing.... that be my best guess at that.

[–] JackbyDev@programming.dev 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

OP said there is one at each camping spot and you can see the camp fire right there. That seems very close to be a spot for a salt lick.

[–] Mpatch@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago

10/10 I jump the gun on that one. I read the words food and got way to excited.