Local – Valens Lake Conservation Area

Valens Lake Conservation Area – a 300-hectare mecca for campers, anglers and outdoor lovers.

Boating on Valens Lake Conservation Area:

Boat rentals are available for rent.

Camping on  Valens Lake Conservation Area:

Valens Lake is a popular family campground with 225 campsites, including 125 sites with electrical and water hookups, 9 group areas. Campsites and offers lake views and forest covered areas, radio free zones, and is alcohol free year round. Up to six people are permitted per campsite. One vehicle is free with your permit. Additional vehicles require an additional vehicle permit and will be charged at the time of check in. Check in is after 2 p.m. and check out is 1 p.m. Camping is available year round. Reservations are accepted year round for camping during the May Long Weekend to Thanksgiving.

Fishing on Valens Lake Conservation Area:

There is great fishing opportunities in the reservoir, you can fish from a boat, shoreline and docks located around the reservoir. Some native species that you will find in the reservoir include; Northern pike, Largemouth bass and variety of panfish. Please note: Valens Lake is a bass sanctuary. Fishing is closed from April 1st to the fourth Saturday in June annually.

And be sure not to miss the popular John Burns Memorial Fishing Derby, which takes place on the second Saturday in July. Dozens of great prizes are up for grabs in both junior and adult categories making this day popular with both serious anglers and families.

HCA is implementing a voluntary catch and release while fishing at Valens and Christie Lake to help support a sustainable native fishery within the reservoirs.

Picnicking on Valens Lake Conservation Area:

There are over 1,000 picnic tables scattered throughout the scenic landscape to accommodate any size group (please call ahead if you have a large group). We have three pavilions – one of which is enclosed for all-weather use – and three group areas. Barbeques and volleyball nets are available by request.

Swimming on Valens Lake Conservation Area:

Please note that Valens Lake’s swimming area is no longer chlorinated.

Any summer day, swimmers and sunbathers can enjoy the sandy beach, and natural swimming area. Please note that our natural swimming area is not supervised and do not have lifeguards on duty. Enjoy the Beach store, featuring pre-packaged snacks and cool treats to add that special something to your picnic lunch.

Trails around Valens Lake Conservation Area:

With its 10 kilometres of trails and 300-metre wetland boardwalk. Visitors can also climb the observation tower, offering a stunning view of the surrounding forests and lake. While beautiful any time of year, autumn has become a popular viewing season due to the migrating waterfowl and colour changes in the area landscape.

Explore the 10-kilometers of trails, great for cross-country skiing (when conditions permit) or by foot. Track Valens Lake’ animal residents in the snow or just enjoy the beauty of the area in winter.