Conservation Areas

Conservation Areas Overview

The NPCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in the Province of Ontario and manages 41 Conservation Areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation, and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.

Check out the map below and come visit a Conservation Area near you! For more information on recreational opportunities such as birding, hiking, swimming, and fishing, visit npca.ca/recreation.

Visitors are encouraged to experience the Niagara Peninsula watershed with a NaturePlus Pass - a fantastic value for regular conservation area visitors, providing unlimited access to our conservationa areas. 2021 Membership Passes are now available!

Our Conservation Areas are currently open for passive recreation only, such as winter hiking, nature photography, and bird watching. The Ball's Falls Centre for Conservation is now closed until further notice.

Please note that during the winter season, there are no washroom faciltiies available, trails are not maintained and parking lot and sidewalks will be maintained on an as-required basis in the event of snow. The NPCA cannot guarantee timeframe of snow removal. During the winter months, visitors are using the areas at their own risk and they must comply with CA rules and regulations and opening/closing times.

Visitors are asked to follow these guidelines when at NPCA conservation areas:

• Wear a mandatory face mask or covering in all public enclosed spaces, including washrooms, buildings, and gatehouses 
• Practice physical distance by staying 2 metres (6 feet) apart from other visitors
• Do not gather in large groups of more than 10 people
• Alcohol is prohibited at all NPCA Conservation Areas. Please refrain from bringing any glass bottles. 
• Keep pets on leash and clean up after them  
• Do not litter
• Take trash with you when leaving the property
• Respect wildlife and plant-life  
• All visitors must vacate by 8 p.m.
• As regular day-use admission rates apply, contactless and credit/debit payment options are highly encouraged.