Shade's Mills

The reservoir is ideal for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

There is a boat concessionaire, Serene Watersports, that offers canoe, kayak, paddle board and pedal boat rentals. Boat rentals include a lifejacket at no extra cost. 

We offer lifejackets on loan at the gatehouse for a deposit of $20 which is given back when lifejackets are returned. Lifejackets are available on a first come, first served basis.

Northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and black crappie are plentiful in the reservoir. Only electric motors are allowed.

There are 12.5 kilometres of trails for hikers and cyclists. Cyclists can also enjoy themselves on conservation area roads. Please obey the rules of the road and, for your safety, wear a helmet.

There's a long 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.
• Learn more about beach conditions.

Picnic tables are scattered throughout the conservation area.

• Open air fires are not permitted without a permit.
• Day-use visitors may use barbecues for cooking purposes in designated picnic areas. Never leave barbecues unattended, and please use extreme caution. 

There are no events scheduled at this time.

Shade's Mills offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

• Please note that winter programming is 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 ice fishing, skiing and snowshoeing conditions, and our winter programs page for more information on winter activities. 
  • The conservation area has 10 kilometres of multi-use trails which are groomed and track-set for classic skiing, as conditions permit.
  • Ski and snowshoe rentals are available when conditions permit. Please visit Shade's Mills fee page for rental fees. 
  • Fishing is available on the reservoir when ice conditions are suitable. Temporary ice hunts are permitted and must be removed once fishing is completed for the day.

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

Four group areas are available for corporate, church and family picnics. They range from an enclosed shelter to three open-sided shelters and picnic area.

An outdoor amphitheatre and stage with stone seating is available for corporate and group activities, wedding photos and other events.

Contact conservation area staff to reserve. More information is available on our Group Facilities page.

The main washroom is equipped with flush toilets. Three vault toilets are located throughout the conservation area.

There are three professional beach volleyball courts, open areas for group games, and a "natural" playground. 

The conservation area has one boat launch. Only non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors are allowed.

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a two-metre leash and under control at all times.

• Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the swimming area.
• Please clean up after your dog.
• Dog owners can be fined if these regulations are not followed.

• Grocery, hardware and drug stores are in Cambridge.

• Medical services are available at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, 700 Coronation Boulevard, Cambridge.
• Visit the Waterloo Region Tourism website for more information about the area.

Shade’s Mills now offers enhanced accessibility equipment to help make water and beach recreation more inclusive. Visitors with mobility limitations can use an accessible beach mat for easier access to the water, as well as borrow an accessible floating wheelchair or an all-terrain wheelchair to navigate sand and trails more comfortably. These additions are made possible by the Government of Canada's Enabling Accessibility fund – Small Projects grant funding and are a part of a larger project to increase accessibility throughout the Conservation Area. The wheelchairs are available on a first-come first-served basis and only during regular gatehouse hours. For additional information about the equipment loan process, please contact the conservation area gatehouse. A deposit and signed waiver are required.