Ken Reid Conservation Area
Explore diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic wetlands at Ken Reid Conservation Area. Enjoy bird feeding and seasonal light displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical holiday lights
Ken Reid Conservation Area
Best Time
Magical holiday lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic wetlands at Ken Reid Conservation Area. Enjoy bird feeding and seasonal light displays.
"A peaceful place with beautiful scenery and wildlife, though trail maps can be confusing."
Bring Birdseed! 🐦
Sunflower seeds are a hit with chickadees and nuthatches. Be ready for tiny birds to land on your hand!
Check Trail Status ⚠️
Trails can be closed due to damage. Confirm conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk Over Wetlands
Wetland areas
Stroll over tranquil wetlands, alive with birdsong and offering stunning sunset views.
Illuminated Forest
Forest trails
Experience a magical holiday light display along the forest paths during the festive season.
Bird Feeding Opportunities
Chickadee Trail, Cedar Trail
Attract chickadees and nuthatches by offering birdseed, creating intimate wildlife encounters.
Dragonfly Trail Lookout
Dragonfly Trail
Enjoy a pleasant walk with scenic views and a nice lookout point over a small pond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Navigation
Wildlife Encounters & Bird Feeding
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Birdseed! 🐦
Sunflower seeds are a hit with chickadees and nuthatches. Be ready for tiny birds to land on your hand! 
Check Trail Status ⚠️
Trails can be closed due to damage. Confirm conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
Map Confusion? 🗺️
Trail maps can be outdated. Pay attention to signage and be prepared for potential navigation challenges.
Sunset Views 🌅
The boardwalk offers beautiful sunset vistas over the wetlands.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Birdseed! 🐦
Sunflower seeds are a hit with chickadees and nuthatches. Be ready for tiny birds to land on your hand!
Check Trail Status ⚠️
Trails can be closed due to damage. Confirm conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
Map Confusion? 🗺️
Trail maps can be outdated. Pay attention to signage and be prepared for potential navigation challenges.
Sunset Views 🌅
The boardwalk offers beautiful sunset vistas over the wetlands.
Pay for Parking 🅿️
Parking fees contribute to park upkeep. It's the right thing to do!
Binoculars Recommended 🔭
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for birds and from the lookout points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ken Reid Conservation Area for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and engaging trails, especially the boardwalk and bird feeding opportunities. However, some find the trail maps outdated and confusing, and certain areas may be closed due to damage, impacting the overall navigation experience.
"Very pretty place with lots of trails however a few items impacted our enjoyment - several trails are still blocked off, eg. The point trail and the boardwalk. I also was a little confused as I was never 100% sure where I was on the maps around...would be nice if they had a "you are here" star or sticker. I kind of ended up aimlessly walking around as the directions weren't clear and realized I was walking in the opposite direction than I had hoped for a couple times. I would like to go again and do the whole woodlands trail if I can. My dog and I went to a bridge and then went to the accessible look out point which were gorgeous.
Note: my photo of the boardwalk is just at the entrance where the barricade is. Hopefully it opens soon so I can explore that area!"
Olivia Winder
"My husband and I have visited this beautiful place many times throughout the year. One of my favourites was the Christmas Holiday Lights that are hung up through the path.
We have walked the boardwalk chasing birds and exploring through the trees to find pine squirrels.
Great family place.
Pay for parking. Its the right thing to do, signs are posted everywhere and the funds go back into the upkeep of the park."
Laura Montague
"My son was taking a water sampling course for a few days at the Ken Reid conservation area so while he was in class, I took advantage of the trails. A lot of them are closed due to damage from the spring ice storm but there were enough to keep me occupied for 2 days. I was able to enjoy part of the boardwalk and most trails can be hiked in under an hour. Greatly enjoyed all the beautiful wildlife, such as a great blue heron, a few snapping turtles, lots of wonderful birds and plants. I recommend bringing binoculars for the lookout!
There are plenty of picnic tables, an enclosed dog park, a children's playground and the staff in the administration building (where you can also find flushable toilets) are friendly and helpful."
Virginie Closson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ken Reid Conservation Area is located between Lindsay and Cameron in Kawartha Lakes. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the Kawartha Lakes region.
Public transport options to Ken Reid Conservation Area are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling or checking local transit schedules if relying on public transport.
From Highway 7, take the exit for County Road 36 North. Continue on County Road 36 North, and the entrance to Ken Reid Conservation Area will be on your left. Always use GPS for real-time navigation.
Yes, there are plenty of parking spots available throughout the large area. Remember that parking fees apply and contribute to the park's maintenance.
Yes, some visitors have been seen launching canoes and kayaks, particularly near the water reservoir area. It's a good spot for a paddle if you have your own equipment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ken Reid Conservation Area is free, but there is a parking fee. Signs are posted throughout the area indicating where to pay.
The conservation area is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific event hours, like the Illuminated Forest, will vary. Check the Kawartha Conservation website for the most up-to-date information.
While there is no direct admission fee, a parking fee is required. This fee helps fund the upkeep and maintenance of the trails and facilities.
Yes, Ken Reid Conservation Area is open during holidays. Special events, like the Illuminated Forest during the Christmas season, are popular attractions.
Yes, special events like the Illuminated Forest during the holidays and falconry shows have been hosted. Keep an eye on local event listings and Kawartha Conservation's social media for announcements.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Dragonfly Trail for its pleasant walk and lookout, and the Cedar Forest trail which leads to the playground. The boardwalk offers wetland views, though it may be subject to closures.
Yes, some trails and the boardwalk have been closed due to damage from storms. It's advisable to check current conditions before your visit.
You can spot a variety of wildlife, including great blue herons, snapping turtles, numerous birds like chickadees and nuthatches, and pine squirrels.
Yes, Ken Reid Conservation Area is dog-friendly. There is also an enclosed dog park available for your furry companions.
Facilities include picnic tables, a children's playground, an enclosed dog park, and flushable toilets in the administration building.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk offers scenic wetland views, especially at sunset. The lookout points on trails like Dragonfly Trail provide picturesque landscapes. The Illuminated Forest during winter is also a fantastic photo opportunity. +1
Bird photography is very popular, especially with chickadees and nuthatches that are known to feed from visitors' hands. Wildlife like herons and turtles also present great photo opportunities.
Bring binoculars for better wildlife observation and photography. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light. Be patient and quiet to get close to wildlife.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with Kawartha Conservation directly or review park signage for any restrictions on drone operation to ensure compliance.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscapes and wildlife. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details of flora and fauna.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for wildlife like birds and squirrels, and consider bringing binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience. The opportunity for bird feeding can be particularly exciting for younger visitors.
+1 Remember to check for trail closures, as some areas might be inaccessible for strollers or young walkers. Pack snacks and water, and utilize the picnic tables for a family meal amidst nature. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Walkers
Be prepared for potential trail closures and outdated maps, which can add an element of adventure. Bringing a good pair of walking shoes and being mindful of trail conditions will enhance your hiking experience. The opportunity to see birds up close, especially if you bring birdseed, is a highlight for many walkers.
+1📸 Photographers
The lookout points on trails like the Dragonfly Trail also offer picturesque scenes. For wildlife photographers, the abundance of birds, including chickadees and nuthatches, presents a fantastic subject. The chance to feed birds and capture them up close is a unique photographic opportunity.
+1 Remember to bring your telephoto lenses and be patient for the best shots. Binoculars are also recommended for scouting subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
Despite potential navigation challenges, the trails offer diverse scenery, from boardwalks over wetlands to forested paths. The Dragonfly Trail is noted for its pleasant walk and lookout, while the Cedar Forest trail leads to a playground. For those seeking a more immersive experience, exploring the woodlands and keeping an eye out for wildlife is highly rewarding.
Key takeaway: Always check for trail closures before your visit and be prepared for a bit of an adventure with navigation. Bringing a compass or using a reliable GPS app on your phone can be helpful.
Wildlife Encounters & Bird Feeding
A unique and highly recommended experience is bird feeding. Bringing bird-friendly seeds, particularly sunflower seeds, can attract chickadees and nuthatches so close they may land on your hand. This offers an intimate and memorable wildlife interaction.
+2For optimal wildlife viewing, consider bringing binoculars. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times to spot active animals. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
Seasonal Attractions
Other events have included falconry shows, where visitors can witness birds of prey up close, and fall festivals featuring live carving. These events add an extra layer of excitement and community engagement to the conservation area.
+1It's worth checking the Kawartha Conservation website or local event listings for any upcoming special events or seasonal displays to make your visit even more memorable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit