Wildwood Conservation Area is the largest outdoor playground within easy reach of Stratford, a reservoir park of about 1,416 hectares southwest of the city and a short drive from St. Marys. It draws roughly 150,000 visitors a year, and the reasons are easy to see. There are more than 30 km of multi-use trails for hikers and cyclists, from short loops of about a kilometre to the 25 km Lake Trail around the reservoir. On the water you can rent canoes, kayaks and paddle boards, launch a motorboat or sailboat, swim from the beach or fish for perch, pike and bass. The park is also a good birdwatching site, with red-tailed hawks, bald eagles and little blue herons among the species reported. For overnight stays there are more than 400 campsites, a playground, modern washrooms, laundry and a pool that opens in summer, and reservations are recommended. It is run by the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and is a pet-friendly park where dogs must stay on a leash. For a visitor to Stratford it is the best answer to the question of what to do with a free afternoon that has nothing to do with theatre: a day of fresh air, water and open space in the countryside south of town.
What to do
Pick one thing and do it properly. Walk or cycle part of the trail network, paddle a rented canoe or kayak on the reservoir, or spend the afternoon at the beach with a picnic. Cyclists must wear helmets and the riding direction on the trails alternates by day of the month, so read the signs at the gatehouse.
A trail pass is required from the gatehouse, and if you plan to fish, Canadian citizens aged 18 to 64 need a valid fishing licence. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars and go early or late in the day.
Seasons and planning
The conservation area is a seasonal destination with camping and the main facilities running from spring to autumn, and the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority announces opening dates each year. The pool is open in summer, and paddle rentals and the beach are summer activities, while the trails can be enjoyed more widely. Because dates, fees and hours change, check the authority's pages before you set out and note whether day-use passes, reservations or trail passes are needed.
Weekends in July and August are busy, so arrive early or choose a weekday if you can. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times, and groups at campsites are limited to six people.
Fitting it in
Wildwood is a short drive southwest of Stratford, near St. Marys, so it pairs naturally with a visit to the Stonetown and its limestone streets and quarry. Allow at least half a day, or a full day if you want to hike, paddle and eat a picnic by the water. A car is needed, since there is no public transport to the park from Stratford.
Bring sun protection, water, insect repellent and a layer, and carry out everything you carry in. Families with children will find the beach, playground and shallow water a reliable combination, and visitors who prefer to stay overnight can pitch a tent and make a short camping break part of a Stratford trip. In the off-season, check whether the gatehouse and facilities are open before you drive out.
What to expect
The experience
A large conservation area on a reservoir with over 30 km of trails, a beach, paddle rentals, fishing and camping.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn for paddling, the beach and camping; the trails suit a wider range of months.
How long
Allow at least half a day, or a full day to hike, paddle and picnic.
Tips
Pay for a trail pass at the gatehouse, wear a helmet if you cycle, keep dogs on a leash and check opening dates and fees before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Outdoor lovers who want a day of hiking, paddling or camping within easy reach of Stratford.
- Families
- The beach, playground and summer pool make it an easy family day, and there is room to run.
- Couples
- Rent a canoe or kayak in the evening light and picnic by the water.
- Pair with
- St. Marys, the Avon River and a Stratford dinner fit the same trip.
- Time needed
- Half a day or longer.
Good questions
How big is Wildwood Conservation Area?+
About 1,416 hectares, with over 30 km of multi-use trails, including the 25 km Lake Trail around the reservoir.
What can I do on the water?+
Rent canoes, kayaks and paddle boards, launch a motorboat or sailboat, swim from the beach or fish from shore or boat.
Can I camp there?+
Yes, there are more than 400 campsites, and reservations are recommended.
Are dogs allowed?+
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
Do I need a pass or licence?+
A trail pass is required from the gatehouse, and Canadian citizens aged 18 to 64 need a valid fishing licence to fish.
