This section of the website is reserved for news on upcoming events and programs taking place at the various campgrounds of the Parks of the St. Lawrence. More detailed information on programs can be found on each individual campsite page.

THE FRIENDS OF THE UPPER CANADA MIGRATORY BIRD SANCTUARY ~ Public Star Party (Stargazing Evening) on Friday, Oct. 21. Dan Bobka and fellow astronomers, will present an opportunity for stargazing using their amazing telescopes. The night skies will never look the same again! If the weather is not co-operating, the back-up date is Saturday, Oct. 22. The evening begins at 7:30pm with a short presentation inside the Visitor Centre and continues with stargazing which will be held just off the large parking lot. Open to all who are interested and is a Free event hosted by The Friends of the Sanctuary.

INSTANT CAMPING NOW AT RIVERSIDE-CEDAR
We provide the gear and save you the hassle!

The Riverside-Cedar campground just outside of Morrisburg is one of many popular sites the St. Lawrence Parks Commission has to offer when it comes to all kinds of outdoor leisure. In order to provide an opportunity to sample the experience of camping for the first time without even having to bring your own tent, new Instant Camping sites have been created.

Each site comes equipped with well ventilated, durable waterproof tents that sleep up to six people, on a 10 X 20 platform that is sure to keep you high and dry. These premium sites are located close to other services including washrooms, showers, a playground, sports fields and an internet café. There are recreational activities for the whole family and instant campers have exclusive access to new steel fire rings.

What you need to bring:
- Sleeping bag, pillow
- Air mattress
- If planning to cook, meal supplies and cooking utensils.
- A sense of adventure!

Reserve your Instant Camping Site by calling Riverside-Cedar Campground at 1-800-437-2233 or 613-543-4328 locally starting at $36.95 plus taxes for weeknights (Monday through Thursday) or for just $39.95 per night weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday), with discounts for campers who stay two or three nights.

CAMPGROUNDS GO HIGH TECH MAY 4, 2009
St. Lawrence Parks Commission introduces online reservations for campers

Campers planning to vacation at St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) campgrounds and cabins this summer will now be able to make their reservations anywhere, anytime. At 8:15 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2009, the SLPC will officially launch the new online reservation system.

Brenda Lauzon, Group Leader in the SLPC Customer Service Unit, is confident that campers will experience an easy transition. "The software system is called " Everest and its really user friendly. Our customers will be able to book campsite and cabin reservations in advance for the whole season and then for a maximum of five months in advance during the off season." The Customer Service Unit will continue to be ready to take reservations by telephone as well.

The introduction of an online reservation system has been in the planning stages for a few years and is directly in response to customer demand. "We are delighted to be offering this new convenience for our campers. They have been asking about it for a few years now. This new system will enhance our campers stay from start to finish." said Pat Macdonald General Manager & CEO for the SLPC.

Campers will also be able to access attraction tickets for visits to Upper Canada Village and Fort Henry at a 40% off discount when purchased at time of reservation. A notice will show on the screen before the sale is closed with the offer. If youre a senior, you can save 50% off for early season (May 19 to June 18) and later season (August 24 to Park close) camping on Mondays through Thursdays. A 10% discount is available during the peak season for seniors on basic and one service sites.

Barry Hughes, Manager of Parks and Recreation said "We undertook a number of campsite upgrades in 2008 and with them complete we have an additional 111 RV sites available. This has doubled our capacity to accommodate RVers and those campers looking for two-service sites. Plus, weve added kayak, canoe and bicycle rentals in selected parks. Its all part of our focusing on improving the camper experience." All parks will also see the return of the popular movie nights.

Camping reservations can be made online at www.StLawrenceParks.com or by telephone at 1-800-437-2233 or locally 613-543-4328.

Operated by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario, the Parks of the St. Lawrence campgrounds and day-use areas stretch from the Ontario-Quebec border to the 1000 Islands Parkway between Brockville and Gananoque. The Commissions various operations, including Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada "“ now designated as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Crysler Park Marina, Upper Canada Golf Course, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary and 12 campgrounds and beach day-use areas including the Long Sault and 1000 Islands Parkways, are located in 16 municipalities stretching from Kingston to the Quebec border.

Parks of the St. Lawrence Photo Contest

We invite you to capture the beautiful scenery and summertime activites in the Parks of the St. Lawrence through our digital photo contest. The contest will begin August 10, 2007 and continue throughout the fall season when the parks are ablaze with colour, and end October 8, 2007. A Weekend of Camping at one of our campgrounds will be awarded to the top photos from the following two categories:

Category 1:
People and the Outdoors
This image can include any image representative of people enjoying the great outdoors in the Parks of the St. Lawrence.

Category 2:
Scenery
We are looking for the image that defines the scenic beauty of the Parks of the St. Lawrence Campgrounds and Day-use areas.

Photographs sent to us should fit into one of these categories Photos will be judged on originality, composition, colour and clarity, and how well they reflect the categories. Winning photos and some honourable mentions will be posted on the Parks of the St. Lawrence web site in early December 2007.

Rules:
1) The higher the resolution of the photos, the better (ideally, 300 dpi jpegs).
Photos can be e-mailed to getaway@parks.on.ca with the subject heading “Parks of the St. Lawrence Photo Contest.” However, if you have a digital image that is over 2 megs in size, please send it to us on a CD through regular mail to:

Parks of the St. Lawrence Photo Contest
ATT: Angela Preston
13740 County Road 2
Morrisburg, Ontario K0C 1X0

2) Photos must be sent in/postmarked no later than October 1, 2006. Staff from Parks of the St. Lawrence Marketing and Graphic Design department will select the winning photos, which will be posted on the St. Lawrence Parks web site by early December. All photos entered will become part of the St. Lawrence Parks' own photo library, and may be used in future promotional materials.

3) You may enter one or more photos, up to a maximum of twenty photos per person.

4) Each photo entered must be identified with the date and location of the shot, name and mailing address of the photographer **, plus this statement: “I, the photographer, release the rights of this photograph to The St. Lawrence Parks Commission to use in the name of promotions of the Parks of the St. Lawrence. Signed (your name).”

It is the sole responsibility of the photographer to obtain any required permission from visitors to the Parks of the St. Lawrence for the use of their image in the photograph(s). The St. Lawrence Parks Commission is not responsible for obtaining model consent. No consent on the part of the photographer is required for any of our staff in the photographs; they will have already given their consent for appearing in photographs as part of their employment at The St. Lawrence Parks Commission. **The collection, use and disclosure of personal information is governed by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. R.S.O. 1990, C.F.31. Legal Authority: The St. Lawrence Parks Commission Act. R.S.O., 1990 Chapter S. 24, as amended by S.O. 1993, c. 16, S. 4. Purpose: Administrative procedures.

2007 UPPER CANADA MIGRATORY BIRD SANCTUARY WINTER EVENTS

WINTER WEEKENDS
Saturday and Sunday Noon - 4:00 p.m.
Starting January 6 thru to March 25
Visitor Centre open every weekend weather permitting. Hopefully there will be lots of snow to set good track for x-country skiing. And there is always hiking or snowshoeing. Equipment rentals, snack bar, washroom facilities, and a nice fire to warm up by available for all.

MOONLIGHT EVENT
Saturday, February 3 starting at 7:00 p.m. weather permitting.
Hosted by the Friends of the Sanctuary at the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary. An evening guided cross-country ski and snowshoe hike through the beauty of a Sanctuary winter. Guided hike leaves at 7:30 p.m. sharp. Winter evenings along candle lit trails can be the most beautiful time to be at the Sanctuary, but be sure to dress warmly. Cost to participate is $5 per person. A warm fire and plenty of hot chocolate available inside the Visitor Centre. Please call Connie at (613)932-3939 for further information.
ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

VALLEYFIELD REGATTA INTRODUCES INBOARD CLASS TO THE AWARD WINNING LONG SAULT HYDROPLANE REGATTA IN NEW PARTNERSHIP
September 9 & 10 at 11:00 a.m.

More than 110 hydroplanes will compete at Mille Roches Beach, on the Long Sault Parkway in Long Sault, Ontario, on Saturday and Sunday, September 9 and 10, in extreme races for amateurs seeking thrills. For the first time, the organizing committee of the Long Sault Regatta is pleased to present a double program: inboard and outboard hydroplanes. According to co-promoter Bob Abbott, “the addition of the inboard 1.5, 2.5 and 5 litre classes to the regular program takes the races to a whole new level.”

The Presence of Outboards and Inboards
The combination of these two types of hydroplanes allows the showing of more than 15 different classes of outboards and three classes of inboards that will fill the program with 30 races per day. Last year a total number of 105 outboard hydroplanes participated in these races. Mr. Abbott stated that the assistance from Valleyfield Regatta, who are co-promoters, is essential as the organization of such an event “demands a great deal of time and expertise.” According to Michel Poirier, General Manager of Valleyfield Regatta, the personnel from Valleyfield Regatta will ensure the smooth running of each race in all inboard classes, as well as the financing of this event. “Our objective is to help develop new sites for hydroplane racing to further develop this sport,” said Poirier.

Presence of American and Canadian Drivers
In the 1.5 litre inboard class, spectators can appreciate the fierce competition that reigns between four members of the popular Shane family and the new recruit, Jonathan Abbott. In the 2.5 litre and 5 litre classes, it is confirmed there will be several American and Canadian drivers. American Jim Martin has confirmed he will race in the 2.5 and 5 litre classes, like his compatriots Derek Smith and Daniel Naegele, in the 5 litre class. Certainly, the Quebecois participation in the 2.5 and 5 litre classes will be something to see. For those nostalgic for outboard races, more than 15 classes will be presented with not less than 80 drivers and pit crews from Ontario, as well as Quebec and the United States.

The racing program will start at 11:00 a.m. and finish at 5:00 p.m. Members of the general public are welcome to attend this event for the day-use fee of $3.22 for adults, $2.72 for seniors, and children 12 years of age and under are admitted free. An additional $3.00 per adult will be charged at the race site.

For additional information and/or campground reservations, telephone 1-800-437-2233 or 613-543-4328 (locally). or 450-371-6144, extension 223.

Reservation System Improvements Shorten Wait Times

As the start of a new camping season approaches, we would like to thank you for choosing the Parks of the St. Lawrence as your camping destination. We would also like to inform you that significant improvements and upgrades have been made to our telephone reservation system for the 2007 season. These upgrades will significantly shorten the wait times experienced during our peak reservation periods due to high call volumes. The Parks of the St. Lawrence value your business and hope that the implemented changes will expedite the reservation of the site of your choice and we look forward to your return this summer.

PARKS OF THE ST. LAWRENCE READY TO OPEN FOR THE LONG WEEKEND

Bring on the sunshine! The Parks of the St. Lawrence campsites and day-use areas are ready for opening on the Victoria Day weekend. Campsites will open on Friday, May 20, with check in time after 2:00 p.m. Sites are filling quickly and reservations are strongly recommended.

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission's parks are opening on their regular yearly schedule. Glengarry Park, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary Nature Campground, the Riverside portion of Riverside-Cedar Campground, McLaren Campground and Ivy Lea Campground will all open on May 20. Woodlands Campground on the Long Sault Parkway will be open for the long weekend as well, and then reopen on June 13, 2005 until Labour Day, along with Mille Roches Campground. Cedar Campground will open on for the season on June 13, 2005.

Selected day-use areas will be opening on May 20 - Mille Roches and Glengarry Park for the summer and Brown's Bay on the weekends until June 11. The Long Sault Parkway Day-Use Pass will be offered again this season allowing unlimited day-use access exclusive to the Long Sault Parkway. The Long Sault Parkway Day-Use Pass sells for $39.00. An excellent idea for families who frequently visit the Long Sault Parkway day-use areas.

Season's passes are also available for access to all The St. Lawrence Parks Commission's day-use picnic and beach areas. The passes sell for $60.00 and also allow for day-use access in any of the Ontario Parks sites.

What's New for the 2005 Camping Season

As the start of a new camping season approaches, we would like to thank you for choosing the Parks of the St. Lawrence as your camping destination. We would also like to inform you of significant changes that the St. Lawrence Parks Commission has made to its reservation policies and camping facilities.

In an effort to continue to enhance our facilities, we have recently upgraded many of our washroom and shower buildings in all of our campgrounds. We have also installed new playground equipment at Ivy Lea Campground and will continue to refurbish other recreation areas.

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission has made some changes to its reservation policies to address the concerns of our campers regarding last minute cancellations. These cancellations resulted in fewer available sites in many of our most popular campgrounds during peak times. We looked at how other park agencies prevented or corrected this challenge of last minute cancellations and implemented the following policies to close the "loophole" that affects campers who have abused the reservation system. The new rules are as follows:

* At time of booking, full payment of all camping fees, including a $10.00 non-refundable reservation fee will be charged to your credit card;
* All changes and/or cancellations to your reservation will result in a $7.00 fee being charged to your credit card; and
* Cancellations are to be made before 1:00 p.m. the day prior to the scheduled arrival at which time a $7.00 cancellation fee will be charged to your credit card. Cancellations made after 1:00 p.m. the day prior to arrival will result in the one night camping fee plus a $7.00 cancellation fee being charged to your credit card.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence value your business and hope that the implemented changes assist you in securing the site of your choice and we look forward to your return this summer.

St. Lawrence Parks NOT affected by Parks Canada strike

The federal labour dispute affecting Parks Canada attractions does not affect operations at The St. Lawrence Parks Commission. The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, a provincial agency of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Recreation, operates Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry, Upper Canada Golf Course, Crysler Park Marina and campgrounds along the St. Lawrence River including the Long Sault Parkway, Ivy Lea Park, Riverside Cedar Park, Glengarry Park and the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

Please call our Customer Service Unit at at 1-800-437-2233 (long distance) 613-543-4328 (local) for more information and reservations.

Parks of the St. Lawrence Ready to Open for the Long Weekend

It's time to have fun under the St. Lawrence sun. The Parks of the St. Lawrence campgrounds and day-use areas are ready for opening on the Victoria Day weekend. Campgrounds will open on Friday, May 21, with check-in time after 2:00 p.m. Sites are filling quickly and reservations are strongly recommended.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence sites that are opening on their regular yearly schedule are as follows: Glengarry Park, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary Nature Campground, the Riverside portion of Riverside-Cedar Campground, McLaren Campground and Ivy Lea Campground will all open on May 21; Woodlands Campground on the Long Sault Parkway will be open for the long weekend as well, and then reopen on June 14, 2004, along with Mille Roches Campground; the Cedar portion of the Riverside-Cedar Campground will open on June 14, 2004.

Selected day-use areas will be opening on May 21, with Mille Roches and Glengarry Park open for the summer and Brown's Bay Day-Use Area (weather permitting) on the weekends only until June 12. Again this season, both the Long Sault Parkway and Brown's Bay Day-Use Picnic Area will be offering separate day-use passes which will allow unlimited day-use access exclusive to each site. The Long Sault Parkway Day-Use Pass or Brown's Bay Day-Use Pass will sell for $35.00 each. An excellent idea for families who frequent either of these day-use areas.

Season's passes are also available for access to all The St. Lawrence Parks Commission's day-use picnic and beach areas. These passes sell for $60.00 and also allow for day-use entry into any of the Ontario Parks facilities as well.

Feeding frenzy at the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Bon voyage! It's time once again for flocks of Canadian Geese to stop and devour a meal of cob corn on their southbound journey. The Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary has now started its annual goose-feeding program.

Feeding of the geese will be carried out daily at 2:30 p.m. and will continue until October 26 excluding October 7, 8, 14,and 15. The feeding area is located in front of the lookout tower, between the rail fence and the banding ponds, at the Sanctuary. Everyone is welcome and those people interested in getting a closer look at wildlife will particularly enjoy this activity.

Duck banding will also be done at the Sanctuary until late October. The public is welcome to observe the banding, which is done during the morning but not necessarily every day. Visitors interested in duck banding should call ahead.

The feeding and duck banding programs are great activities to be included on a camping trip at the Nature Campsite at the Sanctuary. The campsite is open until October 26 and offers basic and electrical sites.

The Sanctuary's nature trails are open year round and abound with natural wonders and wildlife. Crisp fall days are especially pleasant for an outdoors family experience at the Sanctuary, however pets are not permitted on trails or in feeding areas. The Visitor Centre is also open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with exhibits, friendly staff, washroom facilities, and an assortment of snacks, drinks, and nature related books and gift items available for sale.

The Visitor Centre, nature trails and feeding program are free to the visitor. Donations are accepted and encouraged and help to support programming and trail maintenance. For more information on this or other events taking place at the Sanctuary, please call 1-800-437-2233 or locally call 543-4328. For camping reservations call (613) 537-2024.

New date for Waterfowl Day at Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary

The Friends of the Sanctuary has changed the date for their largest annual fundraiser, Waterfowl Day to Sunday, October 5. Dallas Buchan, Friends of the Sanctuary President, stated that the new date ”will no longer conflict with the Fallen Officers Day of Mourning and allow the Ministry of Natural Resources to participate in a greater capacity”. This year the Ministry of Natural Resources will have a large display, including trucks, snowmobiles and a robotic deer decoy. The Ministry's canine unit of Mike Buckner and “Jock” the conservation trained dog are planning to attend and demonstrate their skills. The later date also means that there will be more ducks and geese on hand for this family day of outdoor fun!

The Muskoka Wildlife Center's Animal Adventure Show is your chance to see several types of animals you would not normally get to see up close such as a skunk or a porcupine (animals subject to change). The shows are scheduled for 12:00 noon, 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

Peter van Adrichem “The Chainsaw Carver” will amaze visitors with his unique method of wildlife carving. Peter meticulously carves wildlife such as Geese and Blue Herons out of wood with only a chainsaw! These must see demonstrations will continue throughout the day just outside the parking lot area.

Ottawa's Little Ray's Travelling Reptile Show is on display all day in the Visitor's Centre. Get close up to snakes, lizards, amphibians, turtles, crocodiles and more. Remember Little Ray's animals come from all over the world and they come in all shapes and sizes.

Wild duck banding is a must see. A person cannot get any closer to hands on conservation. Bring your camera. Scheduled shows start at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Children will certainly enjoy all the activities planned in the Children's Activity Area - bird house building, bird feeder building, face painting, fishing at the fish pond booth ($1.00 per cast). Juby & Friend, clowns and master balloon artists, will create a special masterpiece just for you ($1.00 each) and will be there between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Come prepared to do some early Christmas shopping at the many artist and craft booths displaying talent such as oil and watercolour painting, stained glass, weaving, wood turning, bone and wood carving, natural gemstone jewellery, photography, birdhouses, unique plants, herbal products and more.

Bring your cash and cheque book for the Silent Auction as there are many interesting items up for grabs with all proceeds going to the Friends of the Sanctuary. Donations for the Friends auction come from area businesses, artists, crafts people, and other Sanctuary supporters. The Friends raffle winners will be drawn at Waterfowl Day and raffle tickets are available right up to draw time. If you have entered the Create a Birdhouse competition you will want to be on hand when the winners are announced. All entries will be on display.

The cost of admission hasn't changed in over five years. A very “family friendly” rate of $3.00 per person and children 12 years of age and under are free. The Friends Canteen is open all day with barbecue hotdogs, hamburgers, sausages, drinks and snacks. A first aid volunteer is in attendance all day. Ample parking is available. The event will go on rain or shine.

The Friends of the Sanctuary is a volunteer, non-profit, charitable organization which encourages and facilitates the development of educational, resource management, recreational, and interpretive programs in the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary. Friends areas of participation have expanded to help more and more with plans and purchases for events and enhancements, maintaining in-place activities, and keeping the Sanctuary attractive to the visiting public. The Friends give of their time, labour, financial support, special abilities, and knowledge. Friends members are diverse in their experiences, education, employment, and interests. Events, such as Waterfowl Day, encourage people to become more informed and supportive of environmental and nature related issues and more appreciative of special, important areas like the Sanctuary. New members are always welcome to help support the ongoing efforts of the Friends. . . Working to preserve and conserve today for tomorrow.

Fall Camping Rates

Summer may be over, but the camping season certainly is not. After the heat and humidity of the summer season, campers can continue to enjoy their favourite campsite in all it's fall splendor at special discounted rates. (See fee page)

TOP DOGS GET TAILS WAGGIN' AT WOODLANDS
Friday, August 22 to Monday, August 25

The largest outdoor dog show in Ontario will take place from Friday, August 22 to Monday, August 25 at Woodlands Campsite on the Long Sault Parkway. The top dog in Canada, Champion “Quiche's Xena Warrior Princess” will be competing in The S. D. & G. Dog Show with over 2500 other entrants. Dog Show president, Robin Crawford was pleased with the turnout stating that “there are entries from as far away as Georgia, the New England States and Nova Scotia”.

Over 100 dog breeds including the Canadian Bloodhound Club, Canadian Cardigan Corgi Club and Rideau Terrier Club will compete over the four-day event, with 750 dogs participating each day. The S. D. & G. Dog Association show chairman, Jodie O'Meara, noted that “these breeds are not often seen in such large numbers at the shows”.

The show will run from 8:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. daily, with two to four rings operating at any given time. Confirmation competitions will occur on all four days, with two additional obedience competitions on Saturday and Sunday. The Ottawa Valley All Setters Association invite the public to bring their dogs on Sunday for the HABAC (Human Animal Bond Association of Canada) obedience and temperament test for a nominal fee.

There will be a food concession on site, and vendors' booths where you can shop for any variety of dog-related items. The dog shows take place outdoors so come prepared for the weather, and bring your lawn chair. Members of the general public are welcome to come out and watch for the day-use fee of $3.25 for adults, $2.75 for seniors and children 12 years of age and under for free.

Live Free-Flying Birds Of Prey Demonstrations
Saturday, July 5, 2003

Experience a unique encounter with free-flying birds of prey from around the world this Saturday, July 5, 2003 at the Mille Roches Day-Use Area on the Long Sault Parkway.

Bring the family for this rare opportunity to see these types of birds up close and in flight. Watch a falcon accelerate into a vertical dive, reaching speeds of up to 200 km per hour. Meet the fastest animal on the planet, which is also Canada's largest bird of prey. See the only species of hawk that hunts in a pack. Each demonstration includes five different raptors from around the world, and also includes a team of professional demonstration birds, stars of many Hollywood productions.

The show demonstrations are delivered by professionals of the Canadian Raptor Conservancy. This organization has over 34 different species of raptors. Many of these birds are endangered species whose offspring are used in various release programs around the world. One of the main objectives of the Canadian Raptor Conservancy is to educate the public about raptors and their important role in nature.

There will be three shows throughout the day at 1:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. There is no admission fee for campers attending this event and members of the general public are welcome to attend for the day-use fee of $3.25 for adults, $2.75 for seniors and children 12 years of age and under for free.

Summer Fun Begins Victoria Day Weekend at the Parks of the St. Lawrence

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission's campsites are in excellent shape and ready for the regular Victoria Day weekend opening. Glengarry Park, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary Nature Campground, the Riverside portion of Riverside-Cedar Campground and McLaren Campground will open on Friday, May 16, 2003, with a check in time after 10 a.m. Ivy Lea Campground will open at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2003

In addition, Woodlands Campground on the Long Sault Parkway will be open from Friday, May 16, 2003 to Monday, May 19, 2003 and then reopen on Monday, June 16, 2003, along with Mille Roches Campground. Cedar Campground will open on Monday, June 9, 2003.

Selected day use areas will be opening on May 17 th, Mille Roches and Glengarry Park for the summer and Brown's Bay on the weekends until June 14th. A new day use pass will be offered this season allowing unlimited day use access exclusive to the Long Sault Parkway. The Long Sault Parkway Day Use passes sell for $35.00. An excellent idea for families who frequently visit the Long Sault Parkway Day Use areas. Season's passes are also available for access to all St. Lawrence Parks Commission day use picnic and beach areas. The passes sell for $60.00 and also allow for day use in any of the Ontario Parks.

For information and campground reservations please phone 1-800-437-2233 or
543-4328 locally.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence is where you want to be this camping season as we offer your family a summer getaway jam packed with fun activities and special events. Looking for a quiet and relaxed camping vacation? Perhaps you're in the mood for a bit of excitement. Whatever your taste may be, the Parks of the St. Lawrence has something for everyone. Please consult these pages regularly for up-dates and information on events and programs.

The finest in camping facilities set against the backdrop of the majestic St. Lawrence River combined with fantastic activities and exceptional entertainment make the Parks of the St. Lawrence your premiere family camping destination this summer. Come join the fun.

A Walk Through Astronomy Past, Present and Future

June 21 - Glengarry Campground
July 25 - McLaren Campground, Long Sault Parkway
August 1 - Crysler Park Marina
August 2 - Ivy Lea Campground
August 31 - Riverside-Cedar Campground

This summer, we want to take you a million light years from home. And you won't even have to leave your campsite.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence is proud to present “A Walk Through Astronomy Past, Present and Future,” an exploration of the night sky. Mr Gary Boyle, meeting chair of the Ottawa Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and an astronomy educator leads you on an interactive journey through the heavens.

The evening includes a slide presentation discussing the birth of astronomy, the planets and other celestial bodies, how and where to locate objects in the night sky and what the future holds for the science of astronomy. Also included is a question and answer period and, weather permitting, an opportunity to see star clusters, nebula and galaxies through a large telescope. A Walk Through Astronomy Past, Present and Future begins at dusk and there is no admission fee for campers attending this event. Others are welcome to attend for the day use fee of $3.25 for adults, $2.75 for seniors and children 12 years and under free.

This is an excellent occasion for anyone who has ever gazed up into the night sky and marvelled at it's grand beauty or wondered about the mysteries of our galaxy and beyond. As we will be outdoors, please remember to dress appropriately for the weather. The Parks of the St. Lawrence is waiting to take you on a Walk Through Astronomy Past, Present and Future, an extraterrestrial tour through the final frontier. We hope to see you there for a close encounter of the entertaining kind.

You can check for more program information at www.wondersofastronomy.com

Concerts in the Park

Riverside-Cedar Campground - Saturday, July 12
Glengarry Campground - Saturday, July 19
Riverside-Cedar Campground - Saturday, August 2
Riverside-Cedar Campground - Saturday, August 30

This summer concert series offers campers the opportunity to enjoy some of the best music around. The Concert in the Park series travels to several campgrounds throughout the summer and is presented in a unique open-air venue. Concert in the Park is free for campers. Others wishing to attend pay the regular day use fees. Keep checking this page for featured performer and concert time.

World Brotherhood Camporee (Boy Scouts)
Riverside-Cedar Campground - Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28

Twenty-five hundred Boy Scouts from Canada and the United States will be making camp at Riverside-Cedar Campground as they enjoy a weekend full of fun and discovery.

Fending Freezy at the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Honk, honk…whose there? Flocks of Canadian Geese stopping to devour a meal of cob corn on their southbound journey. September 15 the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary begins its annual goose-feeding program.

Feeding of the geese will be carried out daily at 2:30 p.m. and will continue until October 27. The feeding area is located in front of the lookout tower, between the rail fence and the banding ponds, at the Sanctuary. Everyone is welcome and those people interested in getting a closer look at wildlife will particularly enjoy this activity.

Duck banding will also be done at the Sanctuary for the month of September and until late October. The public is welcome to observe the banding, which is done during the morning but not necessarily every day. Visitors interested in duck banding should call ahead.

The feeding and duck banding programs are great activities to be included on a camping trip at the Nature Campsite at the Sanctuary. The campsite is open until October 27 and offers basic and electrical sites.

The Sanctuary's nature trails are open year round and abound with natural wonders and wildlife. Crisp fall days are especially pleasant for an outdoors family experience at the Sanctuary, however pets are not permitted on trails or in feeding areas. The Visitor Centre is also open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with exhibits, friendly staff, washroom facilities, and an assortment of snacks, drinks, and nature related books and gift items available for sale.

The Visitor Centre, nature trails and feeding program are free to the visitor. Donations are accepted and encouraged and help to support programming and trail maintenance. For more information on this or other events taking place at the Sanctuary, please call 1-800-437-2233 or locally and for camping reservations call (613) 537-2024.

RIVER CURRENTS - Fall, 2002
Riverside-Cedar A Scenic Campground Nestled in the St. Lawrence River Corridor

This Fall at Riverside-Cedar ...

Welcome campers!

As the old saying goes, all good things…. With the summer season drawing to a close, all of us at Riverside-Cedar Campground would like to take this opportunity to thank our campers for choosing the Parks of the St. Lawrence this season. Your continued support of our campgrounds and day-use areas is greatly appreciated. We hope to see everyone back next year and, as always, we wish you safe and happy camping.

*Please note: Daily programming in the parks has ended for the season. The Recreational Programmers hope to see you next year for some cool activities and a summer full of fun.

Additional information on programming, special events and concert listings can be found at the campground registration office.

Just a Reminder ...
-Ice is for sale at the campground registration office for $2.25 per bag.
-Wood is for sale at the registration office for $3.00 per bundle. Watch for the wood truck as well.
-We have two canoes available for rent. Please ask at the registration office for more details.
-Check out time is 1:00 p.m.
-Please see park map for rules and regulations.

What's Happening Locally...

UPPER CANADA GOLF COURSE - UNTIL OCTOBER 28
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or new to the game, Upper Canada Golf Course offers a premiere 18 hole golfing experience in a beautiful natural surrounding just a few minutes east of Riverside-Cedar. Didn't bring your clubs? No problem. Clubs are available for rent. Book your tee-off time today by calling (613) 543-2003.
UPPER CANADA VILLAGE - UNTIL OCTOBER 6
Colourful characters from the past bring to life the daily aspects of a mid-19th century rural community. Journey to a place in time and experience the rural Victorian richness that Upper Canada Village portrays. Special events such as the Quilt Show and Fall Fair ensure visitors an authentic taste of life in Upper Canada. The VILLAGE is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
FORT HENRY - UNTIL OCTOBER 6
Take a trip into the past and discover what life was like for a British soldier at the time of Canada's Confederation. Keeping watch over beautiful Kingston, Ontario, Fort Henry provides an excellent opportunity to experience first hand what it meant to be a soldier of "Her Majesty's Army" in nineteenth century Canada. Special events are ongoing throughout the fall. The FORT is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For additional information on these or any other Parks of the St. Lawrence events please log on to www.stlawrenceparks.com or call 1-800-437-2233 or 543-4328 locally.

THE ISLANDER
Ivy Lea Campground - Jewel of the 1000 Islands

News from Ivy Lea …

Summer Programming 2002

Welcome campers!

Thank you, for choosing to camp at Ivy Lea Campground. We have a number of special events planned for you to enjoy as well as daily programming with cool activities. All you have to do is meet Nelson, our Recreational Programmer at the gazebo and remember to bring a water bottle, hat and sunscreen. Children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult or an older sibling. Hope to see you there. Programming times are as follows:

Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Please note that programming will not be offered on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Additional information on programming, special events and concert listings can be found at the campground gatehouse and at the Ivy Lea bulletin board located near the games building.

Coming Up …

JUNIOR OLYMPICS - JULY 25 TO 28
Put your skills to the tests in four days of morning and afternoon events. Join us at the official opening ceremonies that will tour Ivy Lea Campground. There will be prizes for everyone. Ask Nelson for more details.
CONCERT IN THE PARK - AUGUST 2 AND 3
Join us in celebrating this 3rd annual event at Ivy Lea. Friday night features the rock/alternative sound of “ZERO HOUR”. On Saturday night, Ivy Lea will be rocking to the music of “SAUCEPAN HEROES”. Both concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the gazebo. Admission is $1.00
A WALK THROUGH ASTRONOMY PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE - AUGUST 9
Ivy Lea Campground hosts Gary Boyle, an astronomy educator as he takes campers on an entertaining and informative tour of “the final frontier”. If you have ever wondered about the beauty and mystery of the night sky, then this is an event that you won't want to miss. A Walk Through Astronomy Past, Present and Future begins at dusk (approximately 9:00 p.m.) at the gazebo.
2 ON 2 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT - AUGUST 11
You think you've got game? Let's see what you have on our court. You can register your team at the gatehouse starting on AUGUST 7. Team entry in the tournament is free and all ages are welcome to compete.
CORN ROAST - AUGUST 17
More than just a corn roast; this will be a veritable feast. Hot dogs, pop and corn (of course) will be available for purchase, all at rock bottom prices. We hope to see you there. Please see Nelson for more details.

F.Y.I.

-Ice is for sale at the gatehouse for $2.25 per bag.
-Wood is available from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for $3.75 per bundle.
-Check out time is 1:00 p.m.
-Please see park map for rules and regulations.

What's Happening Locally …

FORT HENRY - MAY 19 TO OCTOBER 6 Why not take a trip into the past and discover what life was like for a British soldier at the time of Canada's Confederation. Keeping watch over beautiful Kingston, Ontario, Fort Henry provides an excellent opportunity to experience first hand what it meant to be a soldier of “Her Majesty's Army” in nineteenth century Canada. Special events are ongoing throughout the season. The FORT is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For additional information on these or any other Parks of the St. Lawrence events, please log on to www.stlawrenceparks.com or call 1-800-437-2233 or 659-3057 locally.

CAMPGROUND UPDATE
JUNE 28, 2002

Due to the heavy rainfall that the area has received in the past month, the Parks of the St. Lawrence is advising that there is a soft ground alert in all of our parks. We advise that you call ahead in order to ensure that a change in your campsite has not been required.

In addition, restrictions may be in place regarding the number of vehicles that you are permitted at your site. Please take extra care when driving or setting up in the park as the extreme wet conditions have made the ground particularly soft and susceptible to damage. Should it become necessary to have your vehicle or trailer towed while you are in the park, this will be done at your expense. We thank you for your co-operation and apologise for any inconvenience this situation may cause. We wish you safe and happy camping.

Paddle the Parkway

This is an opportunity for campers/visitors to the Long Sault Parkway to learn or improve on their canoeing skills. Then take a liesurely guided paddle along the shore to discover the natural and cultural diversity of the park.

Voyage to the Past

This is an opportunity for schools, youth programs and large groups to book a time with us at the Long Sault Parkway during May or June. The program consists of a day with a costumed interpreter taking you on a canoe ride in a 37' Voyageur canoe, then building a fire, making bannock and learning about the life and times of the Voyageur. ($7.00 per person)
During the summer this program is offered to campers. It consists of a guided ride in the canoe with a costumed interpreter.

Children's Programs

All Parks of the St. Lawrence offer children's programs on a regular basis. Youth can take part in games, crafts, pond studies, bike hikes and more. These programs are in addition to special events, hikes and canoeing programs.

Guided Hikes

When visiting the Long Sault Parkway or Ivy Lea Campsite everyone is welcome to a take a walk down one of our nature trails with an interpreter, who will guide you through the facinating world around you! These hikes are designed for campers of all ages.

Programs in the Parks

Regular programs are available for visitors of all ages in the Parks of the St. Lawrence. Children's programming is offered five days a week at Glengarry Park, McLaren Campground, Riverside-Cedar Campground and Ivy Lea Campground. Programs are advertised on weekly Calendars of Events with times and locations. These programs are in addition to special events. Check this page in the coming weeks for additional information.

We welcome everyone to take part in the programs!