Parks + Shorelines

Experience the island life

Not ready to give up climbing trees, collecting wildflowers and camping under the stars? Kick off your shoes and get in touch with nature in a place where you can easily spend a day (or week) on the shores of Lake Ontario. The County is dotted with Conservation Areas and Provincial Parks boasting enough forest, birds, streams, trails, flora and fauna to inspire even the most urban of urbanites to pick up a field guide. The County’s natural beauty is stunning whether you’re in flip-flops, hiking boots or snow-shoes.

Leave PEC as you found it or if possible, better than when you arrived.

Planning a Beach Day?

Whether you're dreaming of sandy dunes at Sandbanks or a sunny shoreline escape at North Beach, Ontario Parks has your sunny shoreline plans sorted. Check out their helpful guides for everything you need to know before you go:

How to Plan a Trip to Sandbanks
How to Plan a Day Trip to North Beach Provincial Park

From where to park to what to pack (spoiler: snacks), these guides will help you in being prepared. Now all you need is sunscreen and a good beach playlist.

Protecting the Dunes at Sandbanks

Ever wonder why some dune areas are roped off at Sandbanks? It’s part of an important restoration project to protect rare habitats and native plants. Learn how small steps make a big difference.

Read the full story

Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Experience Attraction

Prince Edward Point NWA protects diverse habitats for migratory birds. Researchers study bird migration. Public access allowed for various activities. Contact for permits.

PEC Barn Quilt Trails

Arts And Culture

Barn quilts are painted replicas of fabric quilt blocks mounted on buildings. They celebrate tradition, preserve heritage, and add charm to rural landscapes. Download the map.

Picton Skate Park & Playground

Experience Attraction

Family-friendly skate/BMX park by children's playground, snack shop, and washroom at historic Crystal Palace. Convenient parking at Picton Fairgrounds.

Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area

Experience Attraction

Explore Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area named after William Macaulay. Enjoy Birdhouse City, 20km trails, and escarpment. Find it on 224 County Road 8 in Picton.

Macaulay Heritage Park

Arts And Culture

Macaulay Heritage Park, a historic site that includes Macaulay House, the A Path Forward exhibit inside the former St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church, a pioneer cemetery, and beautiful gardens.

Massassauga Point Conservation Area

Experience Attraction

Massassauga Point Conservation Area offers 1,200 meters of shoreline, sandy and cobble beaches, picnicking, hiking, skiing, rare ecosystems, and historical sites. Accessible via Massassauga Road.

Ameliasburgh Heritage Village

Arts And Culture

Ameliasburgh Heritage Village is a pioneer village with historic buildings, including a former Methodist church, log cabin, blacksmith shop, and more.

H.J. McFarland Conservation Area

Experience Attraction

2.8-hectare area with panoramic Bay of Quinte views, boat launch, and picnic facilities. Donated in 1987 by Mrs. Harvey J. McFarland. Located at 12106 Highway 33.

Glenwood Cemetery

Arts And Culture

Explore over 150 years of local history throughout Glenwood Cemetery's 62 acres of scenic rolling hills. Visit grave sites of historical significance and our renowned Stone Chapel, a designated heritage structure. Our gates are open to the public every day, and visitors are welcome.

Wander the Resort

Outdoor Recreation

A modern lakefront boutique resort on West Lake, where Nordic-inspired design meets refined County charm. Guests enjoy access to a private beach and heated pool as long as the season allows. Or, enhance your stay with thermotherapy in Ontario's first lakefront Nordic Spa.

Cherry Valley Park

Experience Attraction

Cherry Valley Lions Memorial Park features a free boat launch, gazebo, memorial trees, cement pad with seating, shelter, picnic tables for rent, and camping spots.

Birdhouse City

Experience Attraction

Visit Birdhouse City in Picton, Ontario for a charming outdoor experience among 100 birdhouses, each designed for specific bird species. #birdhousecitypec

Mariners Park Museum

Arts And Culture

Mariners Park Museum showcases local maritime history. Explore exhibits on fishing, ship building, speedboat racing and more.

Blooms and Berries on East Lake

Arts And Culture

Guests will find a beautifully manicured 10 acres property, featuring fields of strawberries and other fruits, along with a specialty flower garden, and several large flower fields with trails, art installations, and unique photo taking opportunities. Our mission is to make sure you leave with a huge smile and memories to last a lifetime!

Benson Park

Experience Attraction

Central Picton's Benson Park offers playground, tennis court, green space, picnic benches, and public washrooms, making it a versatile recreational spot.