Conservation Areas

Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority's wilderness and natural lands provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities. From hiking and cycling to paddling and fishing along the Nottawasaga River, there's something for everyone!

Conservation areas in Springwater

There are three conservation areas managed by NVCA in our community. Find other areas in Simcoe County on NVCA's website.

Edenvale

Found on the banks of the Nottawasaga River, Edenvale Conservation Area offers travelers a convenient place to rest, picnic, launch their small boat or drop a fishing line. Group camping is available for $5 per person. The Township manages this area and is responsible for setting and collecting all fees. NVCA parking passes are not valid at this location.

Getting there

Located at 3920 Highway 26 (see map)
The area is open spring to fall, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Fort Willow

Strategically located as a supply depot during the War of 1812, the historic Fort Willow area was also actively used for centuries by our Aboriginal peoples, the fur trade and French explorers as part of a major transportation route known as the Nine Mile Portage.

Hike the surrounding trail network—including the Ganaraska, North Simcoe Rail and Trans Canada trails—and plan to have lunch at the Fort. Amenities include picnic tables, dry washrooms and sheltered rest areas.

Parking fees

Daily Parking - $6.50 per vehicle
Annual Parking - $45.50 per vehicle (valid for all NVCA-operated conservation areas)
Learn more about how to pay parking fees

Getting there

Located at 2714 Grenfel Road
Open dawn to dusk daily

Friends of Fort Willow

The Friends of Fort Willow are volunteers working to preserve the original site and its reconstructed features. They promote the historical, educational and recreational activities happening at the Fort, including the annual Festival at Fort Willow.

Minesing Wetlands

Designated as a wetland of international significance and spanning an area of more than 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres), the Minesing Wetland is home to many habitats. Fens, marshes, swamps and bogs support a network of sensitive flora and fauna, some rare or endangered.

Recreational visitors can enjoy canoeing, birdwatching, snowshoeing and more.

Parking fees

Daily Parking - $6.50 per vehicle
Annual Parking - $45.50 per vehicle (valid for all NVCA-operated conservation areas)
Learn more about how to pay parking fees

Operating hours

Dawn to dusk, daily

Friends of Minesing Wetlands

The Friends of Minesing Wetlands are a volunteer group dedicated to protecting and promoting the Minesing Wetlands.