Ontario has a number of conservation areas. These are huge parks, often many acres. They have countless trees, usually a lake, a playground, and walking trails. Often you can fish or go swimming, rent a boat or even go camping. We have about three conservation areas near our home. Often we take a lunch and some bathing suits and make a day of it. There are picnic tables and grassy areas to put a blanket.
Usually there is a sandy beach by the lake. It’s nice to take a bucket and shovel so the kids can play in the sand. On weekends, the conservation areas can be fairly crowded, but during the week there aren’t too many people. Many beaches don’t have lifeguards, so children have to be watched closely. Unfortunately, drownings on public beaches happen every summer.
Swimming in a lake is much nicer than a pool. It’s usually warm from the sun and you don’t have to worry about chlorine. It’s also a lot shallower than a pool, at least when you first get in. Many lakes allow you to walk out a long way before the water gets too deep. Swimming is great exercise and very refreshing.
Fishing is a very popular sport among all ages. A fairly recent law in Ontario requires you to have a fishing license unless you’re a child. You can also rent paddle boats or canoes for about $10 per half-hour.
If you belong to a group such as a church, or are having a big family reunion, you can reserve a covered picnic shelter that will hold a large number of people. There is a charge of about $75, depending on the size of the shelter. These often have barbeques for your use and extra picnic tables on the grounds near the shelter. Bring your own sports equipment and frisbees, or use the volleyball nets in the park. There are also playgounds for the children.
This picture was taken at an Ontario conservation area called Kelso.
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