Explore Wetlands in Ontario

Explore a local wetland—any time of year—to relax and connect with the outdoors. Click below to find beautiful destinations in Ontario, ready for your visit.

Bass Pond

The 210-acre (85-hectare) Bass Pond project is in northeastern Ontario. It provides vital habitat for Blanding's turtles—a species at risk. Ducks Unlimited Canada maintains the infrastructure to enhance the habitat and experience for visitors. Parking, Hidden gem. Espanola, ON.

Big Creek National Wildlife Area

This destination on the north shore of Lake Erie has great ecological and social value and holds international, federal and provincial designations. Lovely views of wildlife and wildlife habitats await you atop the viewing towers. Open year round, a public trail runs from the parking lot, through the marsh and along the top of the dike. Maintained trails. Parking, Viewing stand. Port Rowan, ON.

Carp Hills

The Carp Hills are among the largest undeveloped natural spaces within the City of Ottawa, covering nearly 10,000 acres (4,047 hectares) of rocky barrens, forests and shallow wetlands that are home to hundreds of wildlife species. Low-impact activities permitted. Located 30 mins from downtown Ottawa. Parking, Trails. Carp, ON.

Cooper Marsh Conservation Area

By protecting the natural habitat and removing invasive species, Ducks Unlimited Canada ensures that this coastal wetland complex supports abundant wildlife. This is a popular destination for school groups and visitors who enjoy hiking, bird watching, picnics and other activities. Trails, Boardwalk, Viewing stands, Parking. South Glengarry, ON.

Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre

Explore nature at this 1,800-acre (728-hectare) marsh that hosts more than 600 species of waterfowl, songbirds, mammals, fish and plant life. The marsh is an outdoor classroom and year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the trails and other amenities. Trails, Boardwalk, DUC Wetland Centre of Excellence educational site. New Liskeard, ON.

Hullett Marsh Provincial Wildlife Area

Located along the South Maitland River, this is a no-fee, multi-use, multi-season facility known best for waterfowl and pheasants. In the 1970s and early 1980s, Ducks Unlimited Canada partnered with the Government of Ontario to create the marsh. The Friends of Hullett run the day-to-day operations. Trails, Parking, Viewing stand. Clinton, ON.

Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area

The marsh and neighbouring Wylde Lake Bog, an extremely rare habitat in the region, are important to a variety of wildlife, especially during spring and fall migration. It is one of the best bird-watching spots in Ontario, and a popular destination for hikers and hunters. Parking, Trails, DUC Wetland Centre of Excellence educational site. Grand Valley, ON.

Oshawa Second Marsh

At 338 acres (137 hectares), the Second Marsh Wildlife Area is a large coastal marshes on the north shore of Lake Ontario. This “environmental gem in an urban setting” is in the southeast corner of Oshawa and supports a rich, diverse wildlife community—from migrating waterfowl and songbirds to hawks, frogs, beaver and more. Parking, Trails, Viewing stands. Oshawa, ON.

Tiny Marsh Provincial Wildlife Area

This renowned destination is a ""must see"" for outdoor enthusiasts. A series of trails follow the dikes through the marsh and wind through the shrubs and forests. View the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including ducks, nesting ospreys, and rare bird species such as the least bittern and black tern. Trails, Boardwalk, Observation tower, Parking. Elmvale, ON.

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