Campers and boaters from near and far spent many tranquil hours in nature this year thanks to the Raisin Region Conservation Authority’s (RRCA) campground at Charlottenburgh Park and the marina at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area. Both amenities recently closed for the season.
“This was our 43rd boating season, and we’re happy to say it was as busy as ever,” says RRCA Administrative Assistant, Josianne Sabourin. “Some of our boaters have been with us for decades, and our boat launch is used by many community members throughout the spring, summer and fall.”
The marina at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area provides boaters and anglers with immediate access to the St. Lawrence River. Located strategically at the mouth of Gray’s Creek, just east of Cornwall, the marina comfortably provides 128 open slips, which can be rented during the boating season. Supporting facilities include a large parking area, launching ramp, and service building that sells gas, oil, and other marine sundries. Day and seasonal boaters are welcome.
Charlottenburgh Park continues to be a popular spot with campers as well, welcoming 25,000 visitors this year. One of the RRCA’s three Conservation Areas, Charlottenburgh Park is located on the north bank of the St. Lawrence River near Summerstown, just a few kilometres east of Cornwall. The park offers a beach, nature trails, boat launch, camping sites, and more. Surrounded by trees and wildlife, both serviced and un-serviced lots off campers an opportunity to relax and connect with nature.
Both the park and marina provide full-time and part-time summer employment to students through the Canada Summer Jobs program. Secondary and post-secondary students interested in applying for a summer position with the RRCA next year are encouraged to check the RRCA’s social media and website at rrca.on.ca, where summer employment opportunities will be posted in the new year.
This summer, the RRCA rolled out various improvements at the park, including a new online booking system, a new visitors parking lot, wayfinding signs and trail markers. Charlottenburgh Park currently has 207 camping lots and one cabin. Some of the improvements planned for 2023 include upgraded amperages and new water lines at several lots, and the construction of an additional cabin.
While the park’s beach and campground are now closed for the season, its 6-km nature trail system is available year-round at no cost. The RRCA’s other Conservation Areas, Gray’s Creek and Cooper Marsh are also open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to access the RRCA’s website at rrca.on.ca for directions and to view available amenities.
“We look forward to welcoming campers and boaters back once the park and marina re-open next spring,” says Sabourin.
For more information visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.
