Explore RRCA’s Conservation Areas this Winter

December 17, 2020

Snowshoeing at Gray's Creek Conservation Area.

Update: As of January 4, 2021, snowshoes will not be rented until further notice due to COVID-19.

From camping and boating to the Gray’s Creek Holiday Sparkle, it has been a busy year at the Raisin Region Conservation Authority’s (RRCA) Conservation Areas.

Despite a late start to the boating and camping season due COVID-19 restrictions, the RRCA saw a great increase in Conservation Area users this year.  Charlottenburgh Park camping in particular welcomed over 14,000 campers, twice the amount seen in 2019.

“The RRCA’s Campground and Marina both provide immediate access to the St. Lawrence River; we are proud to offer opportunities for the public to connect with nature and explore our local environment.  Staff have been busy enhancing our properties with new camping gravel pads, trail and parking lot enhancements, and more.  We look forward to welcoming our customers in 2021,” says Josianne Sabourin, RRCA Administrative Assistant.

Although the boating and camping seasons have come to an end, the RRCA offers opportunities to get outside year-round.  “The RRCA's 1,644 acres of public greenspaces in Cornwall and SDG offer a 25 km trail network system suited for hiking, biking, and bird watching that can be explored by snowshoes and cross-country skis during the winter months,” says Lisa Van De Ligt, RRCA Communications Specialist.  

Snowshoes can be rented from the RRCA’s office at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area for $7/day or $14/weekend.  Reservations and payment must be made in advance by telephone by contacting (613) 938-3611 ext. 221.

Conservation Area visitors are reminded to clean up after their dogs and keep them on a leash. Dogs are not permitted at Cooper Marsh due to the sensitive nature of the habitat.  Visitors are also reminded to follow COVID-19 public health guidelines and practice physical distancing.

Those looking for 2021 information on Charlottenburgh Park camping and the Gray’s Creek Marina can contact Josianne Sabourin at josianne.sabourin@rrca.on.ca or (613) 938-3611 ext. 221. The Campground will re-open Victoria Day weekend and the Marina will re-open May 1.  Visit https://rrca.on.ca/page.php?id=5 for more information on the RRCA’s Conservation Areas.