Valens Lake Conservation Area

Off Season Camping In Effect
The off season is in effect for nightly camping from Thanksgiving to the May long weekend, with the exception of Easter weekend. Camping is still available but reservations for nightly camping are not accepted during this time and those who wish to camp do not require a reservation. Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis.

Please also note that the water is shut off in the area except at the Hilltop Comfort Station.

Valens Lake is a popular family campground with 225 campsites, including 125 sites with electrical and water hookups, 8 group areas and walk-in sites.

Campsites offer 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.

Winter Camping
Winter doesn't mean the end of camping! The Valens Lake winter camping program runs from December 1 to April 30, annually and allows campers to keep their trailer on site for the duration of the program. Reservations begin November 1 and must be made to participate in the Winter Camping Program. For more information, camping rates and to reserve your space, please call Valens Lake at 905-525-2183 between 8am and 4:30pm.

Camping rules and regulations - check before you go!

Make your camping reservations online.

Enjoy 10 kilometres of trail,  300-metre wetland boardwalk, and even an 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's animal residents in the snow or just enjoy the beauty of the area in winter.

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 one pavilion, which is enclosed for all-weather use, and three group areas.  Barbeques and volleyball nets are available by request.

Click here for pavilion rental information.

Explore Valens Lake by boat in a kayak, canoe, rowboat or stand-up paddle board.  All are available for rental for half or full days. Fish from the boat or just enjoy the scenery and wildlife of Valens Lake.

Click here for more information on boating at Valens Lake and HCA.

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 fish sanctuary.  Fishing is closed from April 1st to the fourth Saturday in June annually.

Don't miss the popular John Burns Memorial Fishing Derby, which takes place on the second Saturday in July and the Ice Fishing Derby every February. 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.

Any summer day, swimmers and sunbathers can enjoy the sandy beach, and natural swimming area. Enjoy the Beach store, featuring pre-packaged snacks and cool treats to add that special something to your picnic lunch.

Be smart this summer season and follow all water safety rules. No lifeguards are provided at our beaches. Adults, children are your responsibility.

Water quality testing is done weekly during the summer months by the City of Hamilton. Results can be found on HCA's homepage or on the City of Hamilton website.