The total number of daily visitors to our conservation areas is limited and access may be restricted. Get real-time capacity information, including whether the conservation area, or an activity, is open or has reached its operating capacity.
NOTICE: We are starting a new project at Shade's Mills Conservation Area to improve accessibility for our visitors. Public feedback has been received and is submissions are now closed. Thank you to everyone who contributed! More information about this exciting project will be posted when it becomes available.
Shade's Mills is a day-use conservation area offering a great place to enjoy nature just a few minutes away from the city. Favourite activities include swimming, sport fishing and canoeing. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy 12 kilometres of trails through a mature hardwood forest along Mill Creek. Anglers can fish in the 32-hectare (80-acre) reservoir, which was created by the construction of Shade's Mills Dam. In the winter, the conservation area offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
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 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.
Picnic tables are scattered throughout the conservation area.
There are no events scheduled at this time.
Shade's Mills offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
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 with a kitchen 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.
Grocery, hardware and drug stores are in Cambridge.
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