Address | 1691 Regional 97 Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S7 |
Type of Camping | RV & Trailer, Tent Camping |
Sites Available | 225 |
Seasons Open for Camping | Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter |
Part of the Hamilton Conservation Authority, Valens Lake Conservation Area is available for reservation camping from April 1 to October 31. You can book up to 11 months in advance of your visit. Outside of these months, sites are available to anyone who loves camping in the winter on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are 225 campsites, of which 125 have electrical and water hookups. There are six group areas and walk-in sites. Walk-in sites mean you cannot drive your vehicle to the site; you must park in the parking lot and walk to your site on foot.
This beautiful location offers sites with both lake views and forest-covered areas. Each site allows six people, and one vehicle is free with your permit. If you like to drink while camping, I’m afraid you are out of luck; Valens Lake is an alcohol-free campsite.
While you are there, however, you will find many fun outdoor activities to do. Valens Lake has 10 kilometres of hiking trails, a 300-metre wetland boardwalk to view the waterfowl, and an observation tower to take in the spectacular forest views.
The lake is spectacular; take a watercraft out and let the serene calm wash over you. Insider tip: they do not offer boat rentals at this time. But don’t worry, there are other ways to enjoy the lake, such as swimming or fishing for some Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, or a variety of panfish.
You can fish from the shoreline or the dock bridge if you don’t have a boat. If you come in the winter, you will find that many people love to go ice fishing when the lake freezes over. You’ll also find that the trails are great for cross-country skiing, making this site an excellent spot for the colder season.
It’s worth noting that it is a bit of a walk from your campsite to the beach, depending on which campsite you selected, between ½ a kilometre to one kilometre. In any case, there is a trail upon which you will walk, and you will find a lot of parking at the beach.
The water itself in the lake is pretty shallow but may rise if there has been a lot of rain. If you find yourself hungry, there is a snack bar at the beach. There is also one at the campground. Lastly, there is no Wi-Fi on the grounds, but I find it a perfect place to unplug from reality.