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Kelso Conservation Area adventures

Kelso Conservation Area Adventures

Kelso Conservation Area is a popular regional park in Ontario offering a diverse range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and a large man-made beach area.

2025
Acres Protected
30+
Miles of Trails
Approximately 250,000
Annual Visitors
1967
Year Established

About Kelso Conservation Area

 

Kelso Conservation Area is operated by Conservation Halton and is located near Milton, Ontario. Covering approximately 2,025 acres, the area features a variety of landscapes including forests, ridges, wetlands, and a large reservoir created by the damming of Sixteen Mile Creek. The park is well-known for its extensive trail network suitable for hiking and mountain biking, including specialized downhill biking trails. Kelso Lake offers swimming and paddle sports with a man-made sandy beach that attracts many visitors during the summer. The area also features camping facilities, picnic areas, and a ski hill that is popular during winter months. Ecologically, Kelso Conservation Area supports oak-hickory and maple-beech forests along with wetland habitats that attract diverse bird and wildlife species. The conservation area provides educational opportunities and hosts events that focus on environmental stewardship. Wilderness areas within the park offer quieter explorations and nature observation. Kelso's combination of recreational offerings and natural beauty makes it a favored destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and local residents. Its proximity to urban centers like Milton and greater Toronto enhances visitor accessibility while maintaining protected natural habitat for flora and fauna.

Highlights

Highlight

Kelso Beach - Large man-made sandy swimming beach on Kelso Lake

Highlight

Downhill Mountain Biking Trails - Trails with varied skill levels and dedicated bike park features

Highlight

Kelso Ski Hill - Year-round recreational facility with skiing and snowboarding in winter

Highlight

Sixteen Mile Creek Wetlands - Habitat for diverse bird species and natural wetland ecosystem

Notable Natural Features

Kelso Lake

A reservoir providing a sandy swimming beach and opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.

Mountain Bike Trails

A dedicated bike park area offering skill-building features and trails catering to varied rider abilities.

Sixteen Mile Creek

A winding creek running through the Conservation Area creating wetlands and supporting wildlife habitat.