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Maitland Valley Conservation AuthorityMaitland Valley Conservation Authority
Maitland Valley Conservation AuthorityMaitland Valley Conservation Authority
  • Maitland Valley CA Home
  • About Falls Reserve CA
  • Fees
  • Camping
  • Reservations
  • Day Use & Activities

Falls Reserve Conservation Area

About the Park

Set along the scenic Maitland River, just minutes from Goderich, Falls Reserve is a 230-acre natural outdoor playground. The Conservation Area offers terrific camping experiences, a perfect combination of great family camping in a beautiful natural setting.

Falls Reserve is nearly enclosed by the winding Maitland River. Over thousands of years the river has carved its way through rock, leaving behind a rugged river valley. Wide and shallow, the river cascades over a series of low waterfalls as it flows around the park creating a unique and exciting swimming area for visitors.

The steep slopes of the river valley, particularly from Auburn to Goderich, are well vegetated and provide important wildlife habitat. Some of the Eastern White Cedar trees that cling to the exposed limestone cliffs are over 300 years old. This is likely the only old growth forest remaining in the Maitland watershed.

The lower Maitland River valley is also home to various plant species typically found in the more southern Carolinian zone. Some of these species include Butternut Hickory, Sycamore and Summer Grape. The area is also an important migratory bird route and a terrific spot for bird watching in spring and fall. Watch for Bald Eagles soaring over the Maitland River.

scenic Falls and blue sky with clouds2024

Hours of Operation
Falls Reserve Conservation Area is open to day-use visitors during day-light hours year-round.

Visitors must obtain a day-use permit or camping permit prior to entering the property.

Gatehouse hours vary during the camping season. Currently the gatehouse is open:
Monday to Thursday – 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday – 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Please note that these hours are subject to change depending on staff availability.


Camping Season Dates
The 2025 camping season runs from April 25 to October 13. On-line reservations will open on January 6, 2025.Make A Reservation

News

Significant changes to the park entry area are underway to improve the movement of vehicles and the safety of visitors. An additional entrance lane is being added west of the gatehouse. The asphalt in the area around the gatehouse will be removed after the new lane is constructed and a new parking area created past the gatehouse. When you arrive at the park please watch for signs to direct your vehicle and follow directions from staff.

Questions? Please contact:
Jason Moir, FRCA Superintendent
[t] 519-524-6429
[e] [email protected]


Pets

General Pet Information

  • Dogs and cats are welcome in the Conservation Area. They are the only permitted domestic animals allowed at Falls Reserve.
  • As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to prevent or stop nuisance pet behaviour from disturbing other visitors and to comply with all Conservation Area rules. Barking dogs disturb other Conservation Area guests. Dogs disturbing others with nuisance barking will be evicted from the Conservation Area.
  • Be considerate of other visitors. Some people are afraid of, or allergic to dogs. Even the most well-behaved dog or cat can frighten or injure another visitor. Don’t let your dog or cat approach anyone without their permission.

Pet Rules

  1. All pets are to be secured by a leash that is 2 metres (6 feet) or less at all times. A pet will be considered “at large” if it is off leash or is on a leash that is more than 2 metres (6 feet) in length.
  2. Make sure your pet stays on marked trails. This reduces the impact on natural habitats and protects wildlife.
  3. No person shall allow their pet to chase or harass wild animals or birds.
  4. No person shall allow their pet to injure, or attempt to injure, a person or other pet.
  5. No person shall allow their dog to bark excessively.
  6. No person shall allow their dog or cat to disturb others (excessive barking or whining, wandering “at large” around the campground, etc.).
  7. Only two pets are allowed per campsite.
  8. Pets shall not be left unattended at any time. This includes at the campsite, in a vehicle, trailer, tent or any other area in the Conservation Area.
  9. Pets are not allowed in park buildings including washroom or shower facilities.
  10. Pets are not permitted to swim or wade in the fishing pond.
  11. Clean up after your pet and only dispose of pet waste in trash receptacles.
  12. Pet owners shall provide adequate and appropriate care, food, water, shelter, exercise, attention and veterinary care as required to meet the pet’s needs.
  13. Any aggressive pet behaviour will result in immediate removal of the Conservation Area.

As a pet owner if you feel you cannot meet these pet rules, we ask that you leave your pet at home or at a boarding facility.


Contact Us

General Inquiries: [email protected]

Gatehouse: 519-524-6429

Please note that gatehouse staff may not always be available during gatehouse hours. Please leave a voicemail message and we will return your call.

FRCA Park Patrol: 519-525-6315

Reservations: 519-524-6429 or toll free: 1-877-325-5722

FRCA Superintendent: [email protected] or 519-526-6429

FRCA Assistant Superintendent: [email protected] or 519-524-6429


Falls Reserve Conservation Area is located at
80900 Falls Reserve Line in Benmiller.

Click here for Directions

 

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