Explore Frequently Asked Questions
- Park General Admissions and Fees
- Online Reservation System for Belfountain Conservation Area
- Parking Payment for Upper Credit Conservation Area
- Online Services for Park Passes
- Parking
- Parks Passes
- Park Equipment Rentals and Information
- Park Amenities, Picnics and Activities
- Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail
- Customer Service
- TackleShare Program
- Giant Hogweed
- Tales on the Trail Program
- Boat Washing at Island Lake Conservation Area
Park General Admissions and Reservations
What should I know before visiting Credit Valley Parks?
Admission can be paid online, in-person or by phone for Island Lake, Ken Whillans and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas. A parking payment has been implemented at Upper Credit Conservation Area. Pay for parking online or by calling 1-800-367-0890. Go to the admission and reservation page to purchase tickets.
Check Park Advisories online before visiting for up to date information.
What do I need to know when I pre-purchase admissions online?
Admission tickets can be purchased online. Be prepared to show your ticket to staff onsite. Even with pre-purchased admission tickets, admission is on a first come first served basis at Island Lake, Ken Whillans and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas and is subject to seasonal operating hours. Tickets can be used for the date and times listed on your ticket.
Please note, we do our best to accommodate all visitors. Parking is subject to availability and is not guaranteed for pre-purchased admission tickets. If the park is at full capacity when you arrive, you can come another day or request a refund.
Admission is always free for Credit Valley Parks passholders and Conservation Parks members. You do not require an admission ticket but you must show your pass to staff when requested.
Please check our Park Advisories before leaving home for the latest updates at each park.
Online Services for Park Passes
How do I purchase or renew a parks pass online?
If you are a new member or your pass has expired:
- Choose New Member from the Visitor Type drop down menu and the click Add Person.
- Choose the pass you are interested in, read the Terms of Sale and complete your purchase.
If you are a passholder renewing before their current Credit Valley Parks Pass expires:
- To receive your 15 per cent renewal discount, simply choose match your membership type (Family or Individual) to the Visitor Type drop down menu and then you will be prompted to enter the barcode number from your card.
- Click Add Person and choose the type of pass you are interested in. Read the Terms of Sale and then complete your payment.
Everyone will receive an email confirmation with a digital barcode that can be used at Credit Valley Parks immediately. Note that you will require a physical card to access Toronto and Region Conservation Parks. Cards will be mailed out within 48 hours of the sale.
How can I access parks while I wait for my card to arrive in the mail?
When you purchase or renew your Credit Valley Parks Pass you will receive an email confirmation with a digital barcode that can be used at Credit Valley Parks immediately.
Note: you will require a physical card to access Toronto and Region Conservation Parks. Cards will be mailed out within 48 hours of the sale.
How can I give a parks pass as a gift?
To gift a parks pass, please select the gift card for the pass type you would like to give. Family, individual and senior individual parks passes are available.
Where can I use my Credit Valley Parks e-gift card?
Credit Valley Parks e-gift cards can be used in person at Island Lake, Terra Cotta, Ken Whillans and Belfountain Conservation Areas. They can be used online for admission, parking, events, rentals and reservations. Gift cards cannot be used for the purchase of merchandise online or for any other Credit Valley Conservation programs, services or merchandise. E-gift cards do not expire.
How do I use my Credit Valley Parks e-gift card?
Online: To use online simply input the barcode number located on the e-gift card into the “coupon code” box upon checkout of any Credit Valley Parks online service, with the exception of park merchandise online.
At a park: To use in a park, bring a digital or printed copy of the e-gift card with complete barcode information.
Check your balance: To check your card balance, please contact Visitor Services at 1-800-367-0890.
What are the terms and conditions for Credit Valley Parks e-gift cards?
An e-gift card can be used to purchase merchandise, services or rentals. Purchases are deducted from the card balance. Refunds on items purchased will be issued as an e-gift card.
An e-gift card cannot be refunded, redeemed for cash, re-sold or replaced if lost/stolen and is only valid for purchases made at Credit Valley Parks (in-person or online). An e-gift card has no expiration date.
Credit Valley Parks reserves the right to deactivate or reject an e-gift car if obtained illegally. The e-gift card must be presented at the time of service and cannot be used for security deposits. By using the card, you accept these terms and conditions.
Online Reservation System for Belfountain Conservation Area
Why are reservations to Belfountain Conservation Area advised?
Belfountain Conservation Area is a small property with limited parking and road access. Capacity restrictions allow us to create the conditions to ensure everyone has the necessary parking, and helps provide an enjoyable visitor experience that is not overcrowded.
The reservation system offers benefits, like allowing you to choose the best time to visit before you show up. You can avoid the frustration of arriving to a park and being turned away because it is already at capacity. The reservation system also allows CVC to improve the overall visitor experience and create a more efficient, enjoyable and sustainable approach to park management.
Book up to two weeks in advance and have alternative dates in mind to accommodate your visit. Same day reservations are not available.
Can I just show up at Belfountain Conservation Area?
Yes, however a reservation is advised to guarantee your parking space and allow you to choose a time that best suits your schedule. You can also avoid the frustration of arriving to the park and being turned away because it is already at capacity.
Visit CVCparks.ca or call 1-800-367-0890 to make a reservation at least a day in advance of arriving at the park. Parking at these parks is extremely limited. Those that show up at the park without a reservation may be turned away.
Can I walk into Belfountain Conservation Area?
For visitor safety and to support local businesses, walk-in visitors to the Belfountain Conservation Area aren’t permitted. There is limited legal street parking in the hamlet of Belfountain.
How far in advance can I book my reservation?
Reservations can be made up to two weeks in advance. Same day reservations are not available.
Do I need a reservation if I’m a Credit Valley Parks passholder or Conservation Parks member?
Reservations are not required but are advised for Credit Valley Parks passholders (CVC) and Conservation Parks members (TRCA). If you show up without a reservation, you will be admitted on a first come first served basis by showing your card at the gatehouse. Please be prepared to show your card along with your online reservation receipt when you arrive at the park.
Credit Valley Parks passholders can make a reservation online at cvcparks.ca and login to your account. Conservation Parks members (TRCA) must call 1-800-367-0890 to reserve. Reservations and admission are free for Credit Valley Parks passholders (CVC) and Conservation Parks members (TRCA).
Do I need a reservation if I’m a Conservation Ontario passholder?
No, Conservation Ontario passholders are still able to visit for free by showing your pass at the gatehouse or you can simply call us at 1-800-367-0890 to make a reservation if you wish. Additionally, you MUST have your Conservation Ontario pass and your online reservation ticket with you when you arrive.
If I make a reservation, can I stay all day?
Reservations are made for specific time slots during the park hours of operation.
Your visit will give you a 2-hour time slot, which is enough time to see everything that the property has to offer. Visiting Belfountain Conservation Area all day is not an option.
Check your confirmation email for details of your visit. Your reservation includes access to Terra Cotta, Ken Whillans and Island Lake Conservation Areas where you can stay longer if capacity allows.
Why can’t I make a same-day reservation?
Same-day reservations are not available to make entry at the park more efficient. Attempting to make reservations while waiting in the queue increases processing time at the gatehouse. Making a reservation by phone while driving or pulling over to do so is both dangerous and illegal in the area. Based on past occurrences, we are working to mitigate these issues and are asking visitors to plan and make reservations in advance.
If I make a reservation, can I use my receipt to get into other CVC parks?
Yes. Show your parking pass from your visit at Belfountain Conservation Area at the Island Lake or Terra Cotta gatehouses to receive free entry.
Same day entry to these other parks will be allowed if space permits and the park is not already at capacity. Please check cvc.ca/park-advisories for park status before arriving to ensure space is available.
How do I make a reservation for Belfountain Conservation Area if I’m borrowing a Credit Valley Parks Pass from my local library?
If you have borrowed a Credit Valley Parks Pass from your local library, you can make a reservation by calling 1-800-367-0890. Staff will reserve your time and date at the park of your choice during the hours of operation. Please note, space is limited per time slot. Your reservation will only be confirmed as space permits. You should be prepared to select a new time slot to secure a reservation.
Can I use my Canoo Pass to get into Belfountain Conservation Area?
No, the Canoo Pass is not valid at Belfountain Conservation Area.
Can I park on the road and walk into Belfountain Conservation Area if the park is at capacity?
For visitor safety and to support local businesses, walk-in visitors to the Belfountain Conservation Area aren’t permitted. There is limited legal street parking in the hamlet of Belfountain.
I’m planning to come to Belfountain Conservation Area using UBER or a ride sharing program, is there anything I should know before I arrive?
Yes, your reservation includes access to a space in the parking spot. We ask that you have your driver bring you directly into the park and drop you off in the parking lot. Visitors should not have third party ride programs drop them off roadside because this impacts local traffic, creates safety issues and can inconvenience our neighbours.
Can I picnic or barbeque at Belfountain Conservation Area?
To preserve nature and history at Belfountain Conservation Area, picnicking, barbequing and day-camping are not permitted. To make your picnic reservation, visit Terra Cotta CA or Island Lake CA.
Can I take engagement or professional photos at Belfountain Conservation Area?
Yes, professional photography is allowed at Belfountain Conservation Area, as well as our other parks. If you are using a professional photographer or videographer a Professional Photography/Videography Permit is required. A photography permit is $75 plus HST per hour onsite plus applicable entry fees.
Parking Payment for Upper Credit Conservation Area
What are my alternatives to paying a daily parking fee?
We offer low cost and free access alternatives to the daily parking fee. These include:
- Buy a Credit Valley Parks Pass. It includes the parking fee until the expiry date on your card.
- Sign out a free Credit Valley Parks Pass from your local library.
- Display a same day Credit Valley Parks admission receipt. Use your same day admission receipts from Belfountain, Island Lake, Ken Whillans and Terra Cotta for free parking at Upper Credit Conservation Area. Simply leave your receipt face-up on the dashboard.
- Use active transportation to access the park.
Why is CVC implementing permit for parking?
We’re introducing a parking fee at Upper Credit Conservation Area to help fund the upkeep and improvement of the lands. This includes maintaining trails, restoring natural habitats and enhancing visitor amenities like signage, new trails and washrooms. The parking fees collected here and at other CVC conservation areas support the long-term sustainability of a growing network of greenspaces so we can continue offering a safe, enjoyable and accessible spaces for nature appreciation and recreation.
To help maintain equity of access, we continue to offer free access alternatives. This includes arrival by active transportation and free Credit Valley Park Passes available for use from your local library. Lower cost alternatives include purchase of an annual Credit Valley Park Pass and same-day admission receipts from other CVC conservation areas.
Don't my taxes pay for operations of the park?
While municipal taxes contribute to CVC’s overall budget, only a small portion directly supports park operations. To maintain and improve conservation areas like Upper Credit, CVC also relies on user fees, grants and donations. The parking fee helps bridge the gap so we can continue investing in the park’s natural features and visitor amenities without increasing the burden on all taxpayers in the watershed.
Where does the money from parking go?
All user fees go back to conservation area operating expenses and continued improvement projects. Past examples include: trail work, wayfinding signage, information kiosks and the Upper Credit bridge replacement.
Can I visit any other Credit Valley Parks with my parking receipt?
Show your digital or printed parking receipt on the same day to receive up to $8 off admission to Island Lake, Ken Whillans, Belfountain or Terra Cotta Conservation Areas, as capacity allows.
How do I use my Credit Valley Parks Pass or Conservation Ontario Pass to access parking at Upper Credit Conservation Area?
Simply leave your valid Credit Valley Parks Pass on your dashboard, with the barcode, expiry date and licence plate information facing up. Ensure the licence plate of the parked vehicle matches one of the licence plates listed on your card. Conservation Ontario Passes must have the expiry date facing up.
How do I use my digital Conservation Parks Membership to access parking at Upper Credit Conservation Area?
Please call 1-800-367-0890 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to purchase your parking permit. You will be required to provide a licence plate and date of visit.
What are the payment options?
Visitors can pay onsite using a smartphone or by calling our Visitor Services staff. You can also pay in advance on our website cvcparks.ca. VISA, Mastercard and VISA Debit are accepted.
Can I use my Credit Valley Parks gift card to pay for parking?
Currently, the online parking system will not accept a Credit Valley Parks gift card. If you wish to use your gift card please call Visitor Services at 1-800-367-0890 for assistance in making your order. Have your gift card number ready.
Parking
Is parking available?
Parking is available at many of our parks however, please be aware of the following conditions:
Island Lake and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas – Parking is available at multiple lots in the park. Accessible parking is available. No roadside parking. If parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Ken Whillans and Limehouse Conservation Areas – Limited parking is available within the park. Accessible parking is available. No roadside parking. If parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Elora Cataract Trailway – Parking lots are located in Erin and Hillsburgh. Accessible parking is available. No roadside parking in these communities. If parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Rattray Marsh Conservation Area – No parking available at this conservation area. Parking is not permitted on any surrounding streets in the area and that there may be consequences to parking on the surrounding roads. Parking is available at:
- Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Rd. West)
If the parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Silver Creek Conservation Area – Limited roadside parking is available. Do not park in dangerous areas. If the parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Belfountain Conservation Area – Limited parking is available within the park. Accessible parking is available. No roadside parking. If parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Upper Credit Conservation Area – Limited parking is available within the park. Accessible parking is available. No roadside parking. If parking is full, please make alternate plans.
Please note: there is active police, by-law, provincial offences officer and security officer enforcement at and around the site.
Where are the electric charging stations located at Credit Valley Parks?
We have electric charging stations in the following locations:
Island Lake Conservation Area:
- One – level 2 charging station in parking lot P1
- Two – level 2 charging station in parking lot P2
- Two – level 2 charging station in parking lot P4
Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Two – level 2 charging station located in the parking area just past the gatehouse when you enter the park.
How much do the charging stations cost?
The cost per charging station is:
Island Lake P1 charging station is free to use with admission or your Credit Valley Parks Pass. This unit was donated and has no additional charges. Please move your vehicle after you are finished charging.
The remainder of the charging stations cost $0.03/minute or $1.80/hour for charging. Park admission or your Credit Valley Parks Pass is required for entry. Please move your vehicle after you are finished charging otherwise a $10/hour parking fee will be charged if your vehicle is still parked there 30 minutes or more after it is fully charged.
There are no refunds for this service.
How do I operate the charging stations?
P1 charging station:
This is a simple charger, unhook the plug from the station and plug it into your vehicle. Use the start and stop button on the station to control charging. When the charger is actively charging the “charging” light will be lit up. Once the battery is charged the “protection” light will come on.
The remainder of the charging stations:
You will need to pay for your session before the handle will release. You can easily start a session with your ChargePoint card, using the ChargePoint mobile app, with an RFID credit card or by calling driver support at 888-758-4389. The 888 number is listed on each ChargePoint station and on the back of your ChargePoint card.
There are three ways to start a charging session:
- Tap to charge. With the ChargePoint app installed, you can start a charging session by holding your phone over the reader symbol on the station. Make sure you have the app and are signed in to your account.
iPhone: In the ChargePoint app, go to Menu, select Account and then Manage Cards. Pick “set it up,” add your ChargePoint pass to Apple Wallet and tap your phone on the station to charge.
Android: Enable NFC, turn your phone screen on and tap your phone on the station to charge.
To use tap to charge, you’ll need iPhone SE, 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7 and 7 Plus running iOS 10 or newer, Apple Watch Series 2, Series 1 and 1st generation or Android 4.4 or later with NFC.
2. Start charging from the app. Choose the station and click the ‘Start Charge’ button.
- Use your ChargePoint card. Just tap your activated ChargePoint card (make sure to activate it) on the card reader symbol on the station.
3. Hold your RFID (chip) credit card over the tap symbol on the front of the charger.
When are the chargers available?
Chargers are available to use during regular hours of operation. Keep in mind these hours change seasonally. Check the webpage for current details.
Who do I contact if there is a problem?
Please contact the service provider at 1-888-758-4389.
Parks Passes
Where can I buy a parks pass?
Parks passes can be purchased online or by calling 1-800-367-0890. You can also purchase a parks pass in-person at Island Lake, Ken Whillans, Belfountain and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas.
Park Equipment Rentals and Information
What should I consider when on the water in the spring and fall?
During the spring and fall daytime temperatures may be warm but the water is still very cold. Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Protect yourself from the cold by wearing multiple light layers of dry clothing and a water or windproof outer layer under a lifejacket or Personal Floatation Device (PFD). Cold water can paralyze your muscles instantly, causing even strong swimmers to struggle. A PFD will keep you afloat while you gain control of your breathing and prevent you from sinking under the water’s surface. Visit the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide for more safety tips.
Check our Park Advisories page for water temperatures and what type of boats are permitted during the spring and fall.
What should I do if I end up in the water?
If you end up in the water, do everything you can to save your energy and body heat. Swim only if you can join others or reach safety. Do not swim to keep warm. You may survive longer in cold water if you:
- Wear a Canadian-approved lifejacket or Personal Floatation Device so you will not lose valuable energy trying to keep your head above water
- Climb onto a nearby floating object to get as much of your body out of or above the water as possible
- Cross your arms tightly against your chest and draw your knees up close to them to help you keep your body heat
- Huddle with others, if possible, with chests close together, arms around mid to lower back, and legs intertwined
Who can rent an ice hut?
Visitors must be 16 years or older to rent ice huts. If you are under 18 years old, a parent or guardian is required to sign your waiver. Visitors 15 and under must have a person 18 or older with them and sign their waiver.
Why do I need to provide a birthdate?
We collect birthdates to customize and verify age-related product offerings. Birthdates are not used for any other purpose, nor do we share this information with third parties.
Do I have to sign a waiver?
Each person will be asked to sign a waiver when booking equipment rentals a Credit Valley Parks. If you make a reservation you will be emailed a link to a waiver that you can sign ahead of time and forward to anyone else in you group that needs to sign. Do not sign for anyone but yourself or a minor under your care. By reserving and signing ahead of time, you will save time when you come to the park. Waivers are available onsite for walk-in rentals and those that were unable to pre-sign. To view the waiver before booking see here:
Island Lake Winter Equipment Agreement and Terra Cotta Winter Equipment Agreement.
Do I have to leave a deposit?
Deposits are required for all equipment rentals except ice huts. They are accepted onsite only by pre-authorization on a credit card or cash. Snowshoes, skis and watercraft are $100 deposit per item and ice fishing rods are $20 per item rented. You are eligible for a refund upon return of equipment in suitable condition, as determined by CVC staff.
Park Amenities, Picnics and Activities
Can I make a picnic reservation?
Picnic reservations open on February 1 annually for the May to October season.
Can I bring in other service providers, such as entertainment rentals or caterers?
Generally, yes this is permitted depending on what, where and when you want to bring in these services. Please indicate what you are looking for on your booking request and staff can give you a quote as extra charges may apply.
I am booking a site to host people as part of my business, what else do I need?
Depending on the nature of your business booking you may be required to provide insurance and/or WSIB clearance for any additional staff. Additional fees may apply. Email us or call 1-800-367-0890 for more information.
This does not apply to business hosting a get-together for staff.
What fees are involved in a picnic reservation?
Each site fee is listed with the site description and varies depending on location, size and services. A picnic site or special event fees do not include admission per person to the park. A full list of fees can be found on our website.
All reservations are subject to an additional $150 environmental deposit. This deposit is paid at the time of your booking and will be refunded the day after your booking if the site is left in the same condition it was found. Funds may take 5 to 10 business days to show on your account depending on your bank.
All garbage and recycling should be in the proper bins. No litter, decorations, food or supplies should be left behind. Charges will be applied to any additional clean-up required at CVC’s discretion. A staff member will meet with you onsite when you arrive.
What time can I book my reservation for?
Most reservations are daily bookings. Each site is available from 10 a.m. to 30 minutes before closing. You can arrive anytime during those hours. Should you arrive early, your site cannot be guaranteed to be ready for you. Hours of operation can be found on each park page on cvc.ca.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refund: There is a 72-hour grace period after making your booking while you review the terms and conditions of the booking. A full refund is available during this period.
No refund: The full site fee is non-refundable for cancellations after the 72-hour grace period.
Date changes: Groups can move their event to another date, depending on availability, at no additional fee. No date changes within 7 days of the event.
Refunds are not available due to inclement weather, however any cancellations made by CVC prior to your event will receive full refunds or be fully transferable.
In the event of an emergency park closure, refunds will not be available once the group has arrived at their event location. All deposits will be refunded in full.
CVC reserves the right to cancel bookings that we deem cannot be accommodated or are not appropriate for the requested Credit Valley Park location.
What if my group is larger than each site’s capacity?
Please call and speak with a staff member, often we have sites available that are beside each other. By reserving two or more sites, you can have a larger gathering. We have hosted 500 to 1,000 people at once. Early reservation is recommended.
Can I have amplified sound on my site?
Amplified sound is permitted under the following conditions or staff discretion: small personal speaker is used, staff will set the sound limit, so it does not interfere with other guests, and it is used within the local noise by-law times.
At Island Lake CA all amplified sound is restricted after 5 p.m. daily due to local municipal by-law. At Terra Cotta CA amplified sound may be permitted until the daily park closing time. If you have special requirements, including making announcements at your event, please speak to staff when booking.
Where can I dispose of my waste?
Each site has a garbage and recycling station located at it. Please recycle items listed on the sign onsite only. If you are unsure use the garbage can provided. If item that are not recyclable get mixed in the recycling can, the whole bag will be contaminated and must go to the landfill. See our picnicking etiquette section for more details.
What rules should I be aware of?
Parking: is permitted only in designated parking areas unless otherwise specified in this agreement. Improperly parked vehicles may be tagged and/or towed.
Swimming: Swimming is not permitted.
Fires: Ground fires are not permitted, unless contained in a barbeque type container, or by special permit. All ashes must be disposed of in the ASHES ONLY containers in each area.
Theft: Credit Valley Conservation Authority is not responsible for the loss or theft of any item.
Alcohol and Drugs: The consumption or sale of alcohol or drugs including cannabis, is strictly prohibited.
Decorations: Staples, water balloons and confetti type decor and amusement that cause small particle litter are not permitted. They can harm wildlife and are difficult to clean up. Spray paint is also prohibited.
Drones: Drone use is prohibited.
Noise: No excessive noise at any time.
Be respectful of other visitors.
Respect park hours. Please have your site cleaned up 30 minutes before the park closing time.
Can I bring a BBQ?
Propane and charcoal barbeques are permitted. Charcoal, propane and utensil are not available at the park. If using a table top style barbeque, ensure you place it on the protected area of the table to avoid burning the table. Ash pits are provided in all picnic area for safe disposal of used charcoal. No open fires are permitted.
Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail
Where can I access parking for the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail?
Visitors can access the trail through several entry points. You can only access parking designated for lakeside trail use. If parking lots are full, please respect that there is no roadside parking. Other nearby parking lots, such as Home Hardware, are private property and cars will be towed.
Access points include:
Main Gates: 673067 Hurontario St. South, Orangeville
Regular admission is required and space may be limited based on capacity limits for safe physical distancing. Credit Valley Parks passholders receive free parking.
Note: the large turnaround at the front gate is a no parking zone, for emergency vehicles only. You may be ticketed or towed if parked there.
South Shore Access:
Rotary Park – 75 Second Avenue, Orangeville
Parking is available with trail access via George Douglas Way. Trail entrance is off Highway 10, across from 4th Avenue.
North Shore Access:
- 24306 Hockley Road, Mono – across from Mono Amaranth Public School
Parking is available with trail access off the parking lot. Twelve spaces are available.
- 673173 Hurontario Street North, Mono
Parking is available with trail access off the parking lot. Twenty-six spaces are available.
Note: The north and south shore access points are for pedestrians only. No motorized vehicles, lake access or watercrafts permitted from these parking lots.n
Can I access the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail for free?
There are several entry points to access the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail for free using active transportation. While this community trail is free to use, it’s important to note that gate fees and the sales from parks passes help support monitoring and maintenance for year-round use. By purchasing a parks pass, you can ensure the trail is taken care of so you, your family and friends can continue to access it, while also enjoying the additional benefits of being a member.
Customer Service
What do I need to consider when planning my visit to a Conservation Area?
Conservation Areas are spaces for the public to visit and connect with nature. Whether it’s your first visit or simply your first visit in a while, it’s important to get familiar with park etiquette, and the rules and regulations before heading to a local conservation area. We want you to make the most of your visit! Before you leave home make sure you:
- Check our Park Advisories page for the latest updates
- Review our Visitor Rules
- Check out our Fishing Regulations if you’re planning to drop a line
- Make your reservations online for Belfountain Conservation Area
What if I want to talk to someone at the parks for information?
Our park staff are receiving a high volume of calls and emails. Many of your questions can be answered through our online resources which include:
We recommend reviewing these resources first. If you still need assistance, email us or call 1-800-367-0890 and our staff can assist you. Please leave a message if you are unable to reach a staff member.
TackleShare Program
What is the TackleShare program?
Initiated by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and proudly sponsored by Ontario Power Generation, the TackleShare Program gives new and intermediate anglers the opportunity to go fishing by removing the barriers that prevent them from getting involved, such as access to fishing equipment, and knowledge about recreational angling.
Participating anglers simply sign out a rod and reel, as well as an assortment of tackle in the same way they would borrow library material from a TackleShare loaner site, such as Credit Valley Parks.
Learn about fishing from educational fishing videos on the TackleShare YouTube channel. For more information on the program, visit the TackleShare website.
Which parks offer the TackleShare program?
Summer fishing rod rentals are available at Island Lake Conservation Area and Ken Whillans Resource Management Area under the TackleShare program. There is no cost to rent the rods, however a $20 deposit is required onsite. Rods are available on a first come first serve basis.
Giant Hogweed
Is there giant hogweed in your parks?
In early spring, there are plant species that grow at Rattray Marsh Conservation Area and other CVC parks, that are commonly mistaken for giant hogweed. These include wild parsnip and cow parsnip, among other types.
Learn more about these plant look-a-looks so you can spot the difference.
What should I do if I think I see giant hogweed in a CVC park?
If you think you have found giant hogweed, keep your distance and avoid contact with this plant. Report your sighting to help us keep track of this species in the Credit River Watershed.
Giant hogweed is not currently abundant in the Credit River Watershed. There are also a few other species that are commonly mistaken for giant hogweed. To learn more about this species and its look-a-likes, please visit our Giant Hogweed page.
Tales on the Trails Program
What is “Tales on the Trail” program?
Tales on the Trail, is an interactive experience that features a series of storybook panels along short trails at Island Lake and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas. Stories will be displayed in one-month intervals, all year long. There is also the possibility for additional presentations of literature or art. Check the park advisories page for the most up to date story. This latest park feature was introduced alongside project partners Orangeville Public Library, Halton Hills Public Library, Friends of Island Lake and the Women’s Institute. The installation at Island Lake Conservation Area is located around the Natural Playground, while the installation at Terra Cotta Conservation Area is located along the Wetland Trail.
Boat Washing at Island Lake Conservation Area
Why do I need to wash my boat?
As of January 1st, 2022, Ontario has regulated watercraft (boats, canoes, kayaks) as a carrier of invasive species under Ontario’s Invasive Species Act. Boaters are now required to take the following steps before transporting a boat or boat equipment overland:
- Remove or open drain plugs to allow water to drain from the boat or boat equipment
- Take reasonable precautions to remove all mud, aquatic plants (weeds), animals and algae from any boat, boat equipment, vehicle or trailer
Before reaching a launch site or placing a watercraft in any body of water in Ontario, boaters are required to ensure their boat, boating equipment, vehicles or trailers are free of all:
- Aquatic plants
- Animals
- Algae
- Mud
Learn more about the provincial regulation.
What invasive species are of most concern for introduction at ILCA?
Over the years, many aquatic invasive species such as phragmites, curly pondweed, banded mystery snail and common carp have been found at ILCA. There is concern that other invasive species like zebra or quagga mussels or rusty crayfish may show up in the future.
What else is being done at ILCA to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species?
CVC has banned the use of external baitfish. This ban been in place at ILCA for several years.
Where can I find more information on invasive species and how to prevent their spread?
Find more information on invasive species using the resources below.
- Visit our page on invasive species.
- Learn more about CVC’s 10-year plan in our Invasive Species Strategy.
- Visit Ontario’s website for more information on Invasive Species Action Plans.
Contact our Parks Team
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