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4.5(970 reviews)

Shades Mills Conservation Area

450 Avenue Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S4, Canada

Plain-text version · Cambridge (plain text)

About This Campsite

Shades Mills Conservation Area

Shades Mills Conservation Area is a picturesque getaway that offers a serene environment perfect for various outdoor activities. It's a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, renowned for its beautiful beach, clear tranquil lake, and the peaceful harmony of nature.

Key Highlights

  • Stunning beach and peaceful lake ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
  • Plenty of opportunities for hiking with extensive trails, making it a great place for leisurely walks and exploration.
  • Picnic-friendly with ample space and tables, perfect for family gatherings or quiet outings.

Tips for Visitors

  • Kayaking and SUP: Rentals are available, but you can also bring your own. The lake provides a calm and scenic spot for these activities.
  • Picnic and Celebrations: Many families celebrate special occasions here due to its halfway location and beautiful surroundings. Early arrival, especially on weekends, is advised to secure a good spot.
  • Volleyball Courts: There are two volleyball courts available for sports enthusiasts, along with open spaces for other activities.

Important Considerations

  • The cleanliness and accessibility of washroom facilities have mixed reviews. Plan your visit knowing that restrooms might not meet everyone's expectations.
  • The location signs to washrooms can be misleading; it might help to ask staff or fellow visitors if unsure.

Overall Thoughts

Shades Mills Conservation Area is a wonderful locale for those seeking a blend of activity and relaxation. Despite a few concerns regarding washroom facilities, the park's inherent beauty and plethora of activities make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Photos

Photos provided by Google

Reviews

Reviews provided by Google

Patricia Graffe

08/25/2024

Beautiful conservation area, nice beach, tranquil lake, perfect for kayaking and SUP, there are rentals and you can also bring your own. Only downside is washroom facilities around the beach are could be a lot cleaner.

Ann Kirst

04/21/2024

We go there to celebrate mine and our daughter's birthdays. It's halfway point for us. It's beautiful and our new tradition. We have a picnic, walk the trails, open presents. Enjoy our time together. We love it. We come in April

Gerson Pacheco-Contreras

08/11/2023

Worth the weekday evening trip. There are two lots to access the beach from (the left parking lot is a shorter distance). The washrooms are usually clean. There are two volleyball courts, plenty of picnic tables and open space areas to play sports. The beach is long so there's usually open space to sit (weekends - arrive between 8-10am to get a good spot). There are also canoe/kayak/SUP rentals available. I bring my SUP and it's a great spot to paddle for an hour or so (somewhat of a small lake). A great spot to spend your summer days.

Cait

08/26/2024

The washrooms sign points to an abandoned building and I couldn't get changed. Some lady also couldn't find them and we asked a guy, and he pointed across a parking lot by the abandoned building. We all looked around and couldn't find it. Luckily someone told me to go down the OPPOSITE DIRECTION FROM THE SIGN to a tiny small bathroom that was full every time I was in there with stalls too small to change in, but was better than nothing. Get your sign figured out and give us an actual changing room!

Michael Borman

06/09/2024

Enjoy coming here for kayaking and fishing. Also has a great little beach and lots of areas to hike through.