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Conservation Area · Ontario

Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area offers a diverse natural landscape rich in wetlands, forests, and farmland, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor exploration.

Conservation Area3504+ Trails

Designation

Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

350

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area offers a diverse natural landscape rich in wetlands, forests, and farmland, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area is located in eastern Ontario within the township of Drummond/North Elmsley, near Perth. The area encompasses a mix of wetlands, mixed forests, fields, and riparian zones along tributaries feeding into the Rideau River Watershed. This conservation property plays an important role in protecting water quality and providing habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna including migratory birds, amphibians, and small mammals. Historically, the landscape has been shaped by early agricultural use, but efforts by local conservation authorities have helped restore and maintain natural ecosystems. Recreational opportunities here are centered on low-impact activities such as birdwatching, hiking along well-marked but generally undeveloped trails, nature photography, and seasonal observation of wildlife. The area provides serene settings that highlight Ontario's temperate climate diversity with wetland plants, hardwood forests, and open fields. Nearby communities contribute to accessible access points, making this a favored destination for locals seeking outdoor relaxation and environmental education. Visitor appeal is anchored in its peaceful, natural environment, ideal for family outings and amateur naturalists. The conservation area is managed with an emphasis on balancing environmental protection with public outdoor enjoyment, fostering appreciation of Ontario's natural heritage.

Field Guide · Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking Baxter Mountain Trail: A Short Climb with Big Rewards★ 7.5⌖ 27 miHiking
Lake Placid

Hiking Baxter Mountain Trail: A Short Climb with Big Rewards

Explore the 2.2-mile Baxter Mountain Trail near Keene. This easy route offers stunning views with only a moderate climb, making it ideal for families and beginners. Drive to the trailhead and experience the scenic Adirondacks, especially vibrant in spring and fall.

Rushing Wonders of Prince of Wales Falls★ 7.2⌖ 44 miHiking
Prince of Wales Falls

Rushing Wonders of Prince of Wales Falls

Prince of Wales Falls in Ottawa offers scenic views and lush parkland. Known for its rushing waters, it's perfect for hiking and photography. Easily accessible, it's a year-round destination with busy summer crowds.

Nature's Canvas at Bon Echo Provincial Park★ 8.5⌖ 44 miHiking
Bon Echo Provincial Park

Nature's Canvas at Bon Echo Provincial Park

Explore Bon Echo Provincial Park with its towering Mazinaw Rock and ancient pictographs. Enjoy hiking, paddling the serene Mazinaw Lake, and camping. Best visited in spring and fall. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Rideau Falls: Ottawa's Dual Cascade Gem★ 2.8⌖ 48 miSightseeing
Rideau Falls

Rideau Falls: Ottawa's Dual Cascade Gem

Visit Rideau Falls in Ottawa to see beautiful dual waterfalls where the Rideau River meets the Ottawa River. Enjoy cycling, walking tours, and picnics in a scenic urban setting. This area is family-friendly and busiest in the summer. No permits are required.

SightseeingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive wetland complex supporting diverse bird species, including migratory waterfowl✦ Trail network that winds through mixed hardwood forests and open meadows✦ Proximity to Smiths Falls and Perth, offering access to local amenities and cultural experiences✦ Quiet observation platforms for wildlife viewing and photography
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Cross-country Skiing

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Snowshoeing

Available in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits or fees required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Perth
⌖ 2.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Perth, Ontario

A charming small town offering a mix of peaceful river adventures, scenic trails, and access to nearby forests and conservation areas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking varied seasonal activities.

Late spring to early fall for paddling and biking; winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Smiths Falls
⌖ 13.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Smiths Falls, Ontario

A small town offering peaceful access to waterways, scenic trails, and outdoor experiences along the historic Rideau Canal and surrounding natural areas.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Portland
⌖ 15.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Portland, Ontario

A quiet waterfront town on the shores of Big Rideau Lake, perfect for paddling, hiking, and enjoying a tranquil outdoor escape with seasonal activities.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Westport
⌖ 15.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westport, Ontario

A charming village on the shores of Upper Rideau Lake offering a relaxed outdoor escape with abundant water sports, trails, and seasonal activities in Ontario’s scenic Rideau Lakes region.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Carleton Place
⌖ 18.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Carleton Place, Ontario

A charming riverside town offering accessible outdoor adventures with a focus on paddling, hiking, and cycling in a scenic, small-town setting close to nature.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Merrickville
⌖ 22.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merrickville, Ontario

A charming canal-side town offering peaceful outdoor activities focused on water adventures and scenic trail exploration with a historical backdrop.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Drummond/North Elmsley Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.