December 12, 2025

Snowshoers at Gray's Creek Conservation Area.

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) invites everyone to spend time in nature this winter by visiting its three Conservation Areas – Cooper Marsh, Charlottenburgh Park, and Gray’s Creek – which together offer over 20 km of nature trails open year-round at no cost. 

“Fun winter activities at Conservation Areas include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter birdwatching, searching for signs of mammal activity like tracks in the snow, or even just enjoying the experience of walking through a trail surrounded by snow-covered conifers,” says Claudia Munafo, RRCA’s Public Information Coordinator. “Snowshoe rentals are also available during business hours at our administration office at Gray’s Creek.”

RRCA’s three Conservations Areas are part of over 2,000 acres of environmentally significant land protected and managed by the Authority to provide recreation and eco-tourism opportunities, strengthen local tree cover, protect sensitive habitat, mitigate the effects of drought and flooding, and enhance the general health and resilience of local watersheds. The three Conservation Areas welcomed approximately 173,500 visitors last year. 

“Those eager to expand their nature explorations throughout the province can also download Conservation Ontario’s Step into Nature mobile app, which makes it easy to discover over 300 Conservation Areas in Ontario,” adds Munafo.

Property owners looking to leave a natural legacy may consider donating environmentally significant land to the RRCA for perpetual preservation. The RRCA is a qualified recipient under Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program and may issue charitable receipts for donations.

For more information, and to access directions and a list of amenities at each RRCA Conservation Area, visit rrca.on.ca/Recreation or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.