Picnicking

Picnics are more than just potato salad at Conservation Halton Parks! Our parks offer incredible views, trails and activities for you and your guests to enjoy together as part of your experience.

Food always tastes better when you enjoy it outdoors, so come to picnic and stay all day to enjoy everything the parks have to offer.

Where can I enjoy an outdoor meal?

Crawford Lake

Crawford Lake offers picnic tables on a first-come first-served basis near the reconstructed 15th century Iroquoian village and parking lots.

For those willing to pack their picnic in and garbage out, a limited number of picnic tables are also available along the beautiful shores of Crawford Lake, located approximately 1 km from the parking lot.

The beautiful 30-minute hike around the elevated boardwalk that surrounds Crawford Lake is the perfect way to work up an appetite for a delicious picnic meal.

Natural and cultural education programs are offered on weekends, call for details.

Rattlesnake Point

Rattlesnake Point offers picnic tables on a first-come first-served basis and also has a picnic shelter that is available to reserve. It is a great place for your next family or corporate picnic!

Soak in the relaxed atmosphere with a walk along Rattlesnake Point’s excellent hiking trails. Catch some inspiring scenic views from the five lookouts dotting the edge of towering cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment.

Hilton Falls

Hilton Falls offers picnic tables on a first-come first-served basis.

Hike about 2 km from the main trailhead to the fire pit so you can enjoy your picnic by the cascading waterfall. After your meal, explore the forests of Hilton Falls by foot or by mountain bike.

Kelso

Kelso offers 16 pristine picnic sites located throughout the park that are available by reservation. Four of the sites have picnic shelters and electricity. View specifics of each site or you can click here for an overview map. Ready to book? Fill out our quick form and Visitor Services will be in touch shortly.

Picnicking at Kelso offers spectacular views of the escarpment and it is just a short drive from the GTA. There are a number of activities offered on site, including swimming, boating, hiking and mountain biking.

Kelso can accommodate a large family picnic or corporate event with large picnic sites. Special activities such as inflatables, additional tents or caterers are welcome.

Mountsberg

Mountsberg offers picnic tables on a first-come first served basis near the reservoir and parking lots. The Mountsberg Sugar Bush is home to a rentable picnic facility and washrooms for groups looking for weather proof picnic options.

Mountsberg offers many amenities that make it the perfect location for a picnic with small children. A short hike around the stroller friendly Wildlife Walkway introduces guests to the park’s resident birds of prey and bison herd. The popular Play Barn and farm yard are excellent locations for kids to burn off some energy before heading home.

Nature programs for families are available on weekends, call for details.

Mount Nemo

Mount Nemo offers picnic tables on a first-come first-served basis.

Rich green ferns blanket limestone boulders scattered among old growth forests at Mount Nemo. Crevice caves and ancient cedars, a thousand years old, can be seen all along the meandering cliff edge trail.

Pack a picnic and head out to the interpretive lookout station, for some great scenic views of the countryside.

Robert Edmondson

Robert Edmondson offers picnic tables on a first-come first-served basis a short walk from the parking lot.

For picnickers looking for a quiet, picturesque location where nature takes centre stage, Robert Edmondson is the perfect spot. A 2 km trail with extensive boardwalk explores the park’s varied ecosystems and pond side dock provides access for shore fishing.

Booking a Picnic Site

Picked your Park? Book online now!

Fill out our online form for Kelso bookings and Visitor Services will be in touch, book in person (at the Visitor Centre or gatehouse), or by phone (Rattlesnake Point – 905.854.0262 or Kelso 905.878.5011 ext 221 or 273).

All picnic reservations require the signature of a person 21 years of age or older at the time of processing and issuing of permit. This person must also be present for the day the site is reserved.

If the number of per person fees exceeds the site reservation fee paid, balances owing must be paid upon arrival.

Cancellations require at least three weeks notice to be eligible for refund. A $10 administration fee applies to all cancellations and booking changes.

Picnicking Etiquette & Safety

Conservation Halton picnic sites are near sensitive natural areas that protect fragile plants and animals. It helps to keep your picnic site clean and to use the litter receptacles provided. Care should also be exercised when cooking with devices that are propane, fuel and charcoal.

Please review the Conservation Halton Rules & Requirements prior to your visit.