Laurel Creek

Camping

Campsites: Laurel Creek offers 114 campsites, ranging from heavily wooded to more open sites. This includes 38 unserviced and 76 serviced sites. Several lakefront sites have a beautiful view. One campground with 26 sites is set aside as a radio-free area. Up to six people are permitted per campsite with a maximum of sleeping units (one trailer only). Check-in is after 2 p.m. and checkout is before noon.

• Book a site on our camping reservation system.
• Please read our Camping Reservation Policy.

Group camping: One group campsite is available for registered youth groups only. The group campsite can be reserved through our online camping reservation system.

Seasonal sites: Please see our seasonal camping page for information on seasonal camp sites. 

Alcohol and Cannabis: Alcohol is permitted only on registered campsites. Cannabis is permitted on campsites and in open spaces. Smoking of cannabis is not permitted near playgrounds or in the beach area. A total alcohol and cannabis ban is in effect on the Victoria Day and Labour Day weekends (Thursday at noon to Tuesday at noon).

Canoeing and kayaking

Laurel Creek reservoir is a good place to enjoy a quiet paddle. Please note we are currently not offering canoe or kayak rentals at this time. No motorized boats allowed.

Sailing

Sailing and windsurfing are popular activities, but beware of some underwater tree stumps.

Fishing

Fishing is limited, though carp can be found.

Hiking

The conservation area has 4.5 kilometres of trails. Outside the conservation area, trails crisscross Waterloo trails and Kitchener trails and connect to regional trails such as the Walter Bean Grand River Trail.

Cycling

Cyclists can enjoy themselves on conservation area roads. Please obey the rules of the road and, for your safety, wear a helmet.

There are 4.5 kilometres of trails. Outside the conservation area, trails crisscross Waterloo trails and Kitchener trails and connect to regional trails such as the Walter Bean Grand River Trail.

Swimming

There is a sandy beach on the reservoir. The beach is not patrolled so parents or guardians must keep a close watch on their children at all times.

We offer lifejackets on loan at the gatehouse for a deposit of $20 which is given back when lifejackets are returned. 

Learn more about beach conditions. 

Picnicking

Picnic tables are located throughout the conservation area. For cooking purposes, day-use visitors may use barbecues in designated picnic areas. Never leave barbecues unattended, and please use extreme caution. 

Events and activities

There are no events scheduled at this time.

Winter programs

Laurel Creek offers winter hiking, skiing and snowshoeing.

• Please note that winter activities are subject to change, based on weather conditions. In addition, the conservation area and/or trails may close from time to time during the operating season, sometimes without notice for safety reasons following a storm, or due to a special event.
  • Check our Conservation Area and Activities Status page for current skiing and snowshoeing conditions, and our winter programs page for more information on winter activities.
  • The conservation area has 4.5 kilometres of multi-use trails set in 300 hectares (750 acres) of hardwood and pine forests. The trails are groomed as conditions permit. 
  • Snowshoes are available to rent when conditions permit. Check the Laurel Creek fee page for rental fees. 

Gatehouse

This is the location of the pay telephone and lost and found. It is also the place to go to report problems or concerns, or get further information about the conservation area.

Group facilities

Three picnic pavilions are available for rent on a daily basis for family reunions or company picnics. The largest of the three facilities has washroom facilities attached; the two smaller pavilions have washroom facilities nearby. Please call well in advance to book your function.

More information is available on our Group Facilities page.

Washrooms

The main washroom in Camping Area 1 has flush toilets and showers. Vault toilets are located throughout the conservation area.

Boat launch

There is a gravel boat launch for non-motorized boats available from May 1 - October 15.

Waste and recycling

Garbage containers are located throughout the conservation area and will be emptied as frequently as possible, however people are reminded to visit responsibly and if garbage bins are full, to take their waste with them and dispose of it at home. 

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash no longer than two metres and under control at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or swimming area. Please clean up after your dogs. Under a City of Waterloo bylaw, pitbulls and pitbull crosses are not allowed in the conservation area. Dog owners can be fined if these regulations are not followed.

Nearby services

Grocery, hardware and drug stores are in Waterloo.

Medical services are available at Grand River Hospital, 835 King Street West, Kitchener.

Visit the Waterloo Region Tourism website for more information about the area.