Thunder Bay features beautiful parks, campgrounds and conservation areas for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Parks

There are 129 city parks and more than 55 kilometres of paved recreational trails. Many of our parks are large and offer opportunities for fun and relaxation. City neighbourhoods feature smaller parks and greenspaces, most with playground equipment.

Off-leash dog parks

Well-behaved dogs and their owners can enjoy Thunder Bay’s four Off-Leash Dog Parks free of charge. Dogs must be over four-months-old, be licensed and have a current rabies vaccination to use the park.

Campgrounds

The City of Thunder Bay owns and maintains two Municipal campgrounds.

Conservation areas

Thunder Bay's proximity to the great outdoors has always been considered an advantage for residents and visitors.

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) manages 2,500 hectares of conservation lands including eight Conservation Areas which are all within one hour of the City of Thunder Bay.

Explore networks of trails and view cascading falls and sparkling waters. Excellent bird-watching, fishing, and recreational opportunities await. All sites are day-use only (7 am - 11 pm).

 Learn more about nearby LRCA Conservation Areas
Cascades

Located in Thunder Bay city limits at the end of Balsam Street. Open Year Round. Features a paved accessible trail.

 

Cedar Falls
Located in O'Connor Township. Open spring to fall only.

 

Hazelwood Lake
Located in Gorham Township, 14 km north of Dawson Road on Hazelwood Drive. Open year round. Swim at the beach, try fishing or just enjoy a leisurely walk along one of the many trails. In the winter you can explore the trails by snowshoe.

 

Hurkett Cove
Located in Dorion Township. Open spring to fall only.

 

Little Trout Bay
Located in the Municipality of Neebing. Access to Lake Superior. Open spring to fall only. Public Boat Launch.

 

MacKenzie Point
Located in the Municipality of Shuniah. Open spring to fall only.

 

Mission Island Marsh
At Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area there is a fully accessible boardwalk, viewing mound, a pavilion and an unbeatable view of the Sleeping Giant.

 

Silver Harbour
Located in the Municipality of Shuniah. Access to Lake Superior. Open year round. Public Boat Launch.

 

Trail maps and more information are available on the LRCA's Conservation Areas webpage, or from the LRCA office.

Urban forests

Parks make up an important part of the urban forest. Learn more about the City's Forestry & Horticulture Section.

Conservatory

The City of Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory is accessible to all and is a great place to visit year round. The Conservatory opened in 1967, by the Fort William Parks Board as a Centennial project and it is a legacy to the citizens of Thunder Bay.

Beaches and splash pads

Looking for a beach or splash pad for the family during the hot weather? There are many options for everyone to cool off in the summer months across Thunder Bay.

 

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