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Bannockburn Conservation Area

Visit Bannockburn Conservation Area - near Varna, between Bayfield and Brucefield.
About Bannockburn Conservation Area

Bannockburn Conservation Area is home to six different natural communities: Wet Meadow; Eastern White Cedar; Deciduous Forest; old field; and Mixed Scrub and Marsh.

The trail starts with a boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible, offering views of the Bannockburn River.

Early morning visits may reward you with sightings of deer; grouse; and numerous songbirds.

Open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset, unless otherwise posted.

Download the trail map and booklet now:

Download the Bannockburn Conservation Area Guide Book:

Where is Bannockburn Conservation Area?

Address: 76249 Bannockburn Line, Bluewater, Ontario 

This Google Map link may help as well:

Recreational Trails 

Explore Bannockburn Conservation Area’s almost two-kilometre (1.2 mile) recreational trail and travel through the six different natural communities including Wet Meadow; Eastern White Cedar; Deciduous Forest; Old Field; and Mixed Scrub and Marsh. Our multi-use recreational trails are accessible by foot, snowshoes, and cross-country skis, weather permitting.

CAUTION: These are nature trails. Trail surfaces and boardwalks may be slippery or uneven. Be especially careful during windy, wet and icy conditions. 

  • Use caution and avoid trails if covered in water
  • Wear appropriate clothing, footwear and equipment for your preferred trail activity. 
  • Stay away from fast-flowing water. 
Fishing

Fishing is permitted in compliance with applicable legislation. Outdoor Cards and Fishing Licences can be purchased from Service Ontario and other licence issuers. Please release any fish caught out of season. 
A number of native species are found in the Bayfield River.

Rules 

Rules protect the environment, you and your fellow users. These rules must be followed and are be enforced under the Conservation Authorities Act and Trespass to Property Act. 

Please refer to signs and entrance kiosks for permitted and prohibited activities. 

  • The property is closed to the public between sunset and sunrise. 
  • Motorized vehicles, bicycles, e-bikes, horses, hunting, drones, alcohol use, campfires and camping are not permitted. 
  • Dogs must be on a leash, under control, and you must clean up after your dog. Ensure your pet does not damage or interfere with vegetation or wildlife and does not interfere with others’ enjoyment.
  • Do not remove or damage plants, trees, wildlife, signs or structures. 
  • Stay on the trails and respect neighbouring landowners. 
  • Fishing is permitted in compliance with applicable legislation.  
  • Don’t litter.

Please report vandalism and incidents to the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) at 519-235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.

For a list of permitted activities, please visit the ‘Permitted Uses’ web page at this link:

Watch the video now:

Programs