Kelso Conservation Area
Set along the rocky Niagara Escarpment, Kelso Conservation Area is a three-square kilometre outdoor recreation park that packs in a lot of outdoor fun.
With the hilly escarpment terrain surrounding Kelso Lake, visitors are spoiled for choice with the selection of activities like paddle-boarding, swimming, camping, mountain biking and picnicking. Its extensive network of trails is perfect for hiking, plus there’s great skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Take in the views around the lake with a stroll down the boardwalk or enjoy a tranquil afternoon on the sandy shores of Kelso Beach.
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How to get to Kelso Conservation Area
Location: 5234 Kelso Road, Milton
By car: Kelso Conservation Area is located just outside of Milton, off the ON-401 highway. Parking is available onsite.
By transit: GO Transit provides regular train and bus service between Toronto and Milton. From Milton, take a local taxi to the Kelso Conservation Area.
Know before you go
Reservations for visiting Kelso Conservation Area are not required but are recommended. Book online in advance to reserve your spot and save money on gate fees.
Kelso Conservation Area has 14 tent campsites available in the spring, summer and fall. Reservations can be booked by contacting Visitor Services by email or over the phone.
Things to do at Kelso Conservation Area
Discover more activities and experiences.
Hike a nature trail
Immerse yourself in fresh air and nature views by hiking on one of Kelso’s trails and hiking loops. Dogs are welcome, provided they are properly leashed.
Explore on the water
Take advantage of the sparkling blue waters of Kelso Lake by swimming or boating. Canoes, kayaks, peddleboats and paddleboards are available to rent onsite.
Climb an aerial rope course
Climb to new heights with Kelso’s Challenge Course. This experience includes an aerial ropes course and a climbing tower with features that takes you more than 13 metres in the air.
Go mountain biking
Learn to ride on rugged trails with the Kelso Mountain Bike School. Book a guided ride with expert instructors or choose your own adventure from the extensive network of bike trails.
Take in scenic views
Take a ride on a chairlift to the top of the hills during the fall and enjoy the season’s spectacular colours. Get your camera ready to capture breathtaking views of the Escarpment.
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Interesting facts about Kelso Conservation Area
Kelso Conservation Area is home to Kelso Lake, a human-made reservoir built to mitigate the flooding of nearby Sixteen Mile Creek. This river flows from the Niagara Escarpment through Milton and Oakville, emptying into Lake Ontario.
Kelso has transformed into a multi-purpose lake for both function and fun, with locals and visitors frequenting its sandy beach and swimming or kayaking in its calm waters.
In the winter, the park operates as Glen Eden, a family-friendly ski resort with three chair lifts and carpet lifts for beginners. The ski resort typically opens in January.
Last updated: May 15, 2024