At Credit Valley Parks, step into a world where fresh air, lush greenery and open skies invite you to pause, breathe and feel refreshed. Discover ways you can connect and explore nature with watercraft rentals and picnic space bookings to maximize your park adventure.
Step into the Wild
Hiking is a fantastic way to recharge and enjoy stunning scenery.
Not sure if you’re up for a relaxing walk or a challenging hike? Our park trail ratings can help you decide based on your energy level and mobility needs.
Our trails are pet friendly too! Dogs must always be on a leash of six feet or less and please clean up after them too so everyone can enjoy the trails. Learn more about dog rules and etiquette along the trail.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few itineraries for your next outdoor adventure:
- Spot trilliums and trout lilies in bloom along the trails, especially at Silver Creek and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas. Please refrain from picking or removing vegetation as it’s not permitted at our parks. Pollinators will also thank you for leaving them.
- Experience Canada’s historic Bruce Trail while visiting Limehouse and Silver Creek Conservation Areas. We strongly recommended having a copy of the Bruce Trail Reference or park map before heading out on the trails.
- Enjoy the beauty of Belfountain and Ken Whillans Conservation Areas now that they are open for the season again.
Go with the Flow
Life is just better on the water. Enjoy the serenity of Island Lake and Ken Whillans Conservation Area with new and improved watercrafts rentals including fishing kayaks and tandem kayaks. You can also bring your own watercraft. Learn about the importance of cleaning boats after each use to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
All watercraft rentals include lifejackets, safety kits and paddles. Our watercrafts offer different capacities and configurations including:
- Canoes seat up to three people, with two seats and one person can sit in the middle on the floor.
- Kayaks are available in single, tandem, sit-in and sit-on-top options.
- Fishing kayaks seat one person, offer additional cargo space, with dry enclosed canisters built in and rod holders.
Rentals depend on weather conditions and availability, for more information visit our park advisories page for the latest updates.
If you are planning a fishing trip at Island Lake or Ken Whillans Conservation Area and are bringing your own boat, please note there is a $8 (plus HST) boat launch fee at Island Lake for trailered boats. This is included with an annual Credit Valley Parks Pass – a great perk for current and future visitors.
Good Food Meets Great Scenery
A dreamy day of sitting amongst nature with good food and even better company awaits. Plan a picnic, big or small, at our parks. We have spaces depending on the size of your group and event needs.
Island Lake
Connect with nature at Island Lake Conservation Area with five reservable picnic areas or pavilions. Sites vary in size and we can accommodate up to 500 guests, making it a great option for family get-togethers, company picnics or birthday celebrations.
Terra Cotta
Take in the sounds of nature in the heart of the Niagara Escarpment at Terra Cotta Conservation Area which has six reservable picnic sites and pavilions available to rent with sites that can accommodate up to 400 guests.
Celebrate Forever in Nature
Use the beauty of the season and nature’s scenery for your proposal or special day. Capture your special moments in our parks and plan your dream nature wedding – reserve your 2026 date now.
Share your favorite moments, no matter how you choose to get outside at our parks with us on Instagram, Facebook and X.
By Sarah Lebret, Associate, Marketing and Communications