Enjoying Nature in Timmins: 4 Conservation Areas to Discover

Whether you're looking for a place to have a picnic, play some sports, go fishing, or have a swim, the city of Timmins, Ontario offers outdoor adventure for everyone. With four public conservation areas to choose from, 

1. The Gillies Lake Conservation Area

What once used to be 100 hectares of lake is now reduced to approximately 22 hectares thanks to the tailings from the various mines that used to surround it during the early 1900s. One of the city's most famous lakes, the Gillies Lake Conservation Area became a part of the community in 1932 by popular demand. It's an outstanding spot to go swimming, have a picnic, grab a bite at the 4-Ever Fries Bubble's Food Truck, take a hike, or even go bird-watching—and it's conveniently located in the heart of the city. This fantastic piece of land offers the chance for visitors and residents alike to enjoy a bit of nature. With a boardwalk, public restroom, a playground, a supervised beach from June through August, picnic facilities, a recreation field, wakeboarding opportunities in the summertime, and various storyboards which are located along the 2.5 km trail around this gorgeous lake, there is something here for everyone to enjoy!

2. The Hersey Lake Conservation Area

The Hersey Lake Conservation Area is one of Timmin's most popular year-round destinations. This 226-hectare area contains picnic tables, a gazebo, public washrooms and amazing opportunities to explore and discover our amazing boreal forests no matter what the season. Experience the beauty of nature at Hersey Lake by swimming in the unsupervised lake with the beavers, bird watching, taking a hike, biking, or walking your dog on the stunning trails around the lake which will even bring you to the dog beach. If you like snowshoeing and skiing then be sure to visit this amazing conservation area in the wintertime to experience all that our amazing forests at Hersey Lake have to offer.

3. The Mountjoy Historical Conservation Area

Before this beautiful conservation area was created, it was home to many residences and businesses. In 1960, however, a flood caused millions of dollars worth of damages and the decision was made to turn the area into a public space. Today, the land is now home to a gorgeous conservation area, overseen by the Mattagami River Conservation Authority. So, if you're in the mood for a lovely picnic in the sun, want to take advantage of the well-maintained walking trails and sports fields or if you want to launch your boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board then be sure to visit the Mountjoy Historical Conservation Area. Parking is plentiful and public washrooms are available for your convenience. 

The White Waterfront Conservation Area

Situated at the West end of Porcupine Lake, the White Waterfront Conservation Area is an important part of Timmins history as it features a plaque commemorating the Porcupine Fire of 1911. The area also includes a small boardwalk which leads to the front of the historic and beloved Airport Hotel which used to be an airport back in 1941 and is now a restaurant and bar. 

Named after Ernie White who was the municipal councilor of the Mattagami Region Conservation Area, the White Waterfront Conservation Area offers a boat launch, a playground, a recreational trail, a water park, and a beautiful scenic location to enjoy picnics. If you're interested in visiting the White Waterfront Conservation Area, we encourage you to do so by accessing Bruce or Bloor Avenue in South Porcupine. 

So, whether you’re looking for a place to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, hiking or you just want an amazing and serene place to have a picnic alone or with a loved one the conservation areas in the City of Timmins are the place to be.

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