Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, and whether you want to relax and rejuvenate or be active and exuberant, these parks are sure to satisfy all your needs towards making the most of the summer. Here are six different conservation parks in and around Mississauga that will help to make for a memorable summer.

1. J.C. Saddington Park

"JC Saddington Park" (CC BY 2.0) by MSVG

The first of these options is J.C. Saddington Park, located at the mouth of the Credit River on 53 Lake Street. This quaint and picturesque park has barbeques, comfort stations, and picnic facilities, including two different picnic areas that seat 75 people each. There are various playgrounds for children and a pond filled with wildlife. The park also has fishing, and walking trails for cyclists and joggers.

2. Erindale Park

"Erindale Park" (CC 0 1.0) by mustangjoe

Another great Park to consider visiting this summer is Erindale Park, which is located on 1695 Dundas Street West. This conservation area is known as the largest park in the city at 222.1 acres. There are five barbeques, five picnic areas, six comfort stations, as well as a look-out point and playground equipment area. To help keep active this summer, the park also has fishing, canoeing, walking and cycling trails. The scenery and nature in the park is said to be very beautiful, making it a great spot for bird watchers, photographers or anyone with an appreciation for nature. Another great asset to this park is the David J. Culham trail. This pathway runs through the forest area and alongside the Credit River. The picturesque environment makes for a serene walking, jogging, or cycling experience through this path.

3. Lake Aquitaine Park

Somewhere else to check out this summer is Lake Aquitaine Park located just off of Aquitaine Avenue. This park has a 3.4Km trail running from Derry Road through Lake Aquitaine Park, making it perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. With an abundance of wildlife within the environment, it’s sure to provide some of nature’s finest. There are Blue Jays, northern grackles, and morning doves amid all the wildlife inhabiting the park. There are also free exercise circuits within the park, as well as washrooms and a splash pad.

4. Lakefront Promenade Park

"He’s Bird Watchin’" (CC BY 2.0) by MSVG

Lakefront Promenade Park is another place you won’t want to skip out on this summer, located off of Lakeshore Road East on 800 Lakefront Promenade. This park is over 40 hectares making it one of the largest waterfront developments in Ontario. Various park amenities include an outdoor licensed eatery, boardwalks, picnic shelters, a playground with a splash pad, cycling paths, and concession facilities. The park also has a marina that docks over 170 boats and year-round fishing opportunities. Within the park is a 21.5km waterfront trail that runs along Lake Ontario, being ideal for jogging, cycling or a charming stroll.

5. High Park

"Cherry Blossoms in High Park" (CC BY 2.0) by False Positives

High Park is definitely a popular place to visit this summer. It’s one of Toronto’s largest parks and filled with things to do and see, including all the different sports amenities. Within High Park you will find tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball diamonds. Another great thing about High Park is that many of the large grassy areas within are great spots where other sports can be played. The park has 18 picnic areas that are extremely popular among large families. It’s also a keen location to observe different gardens and nature. The Hillside gardens are a great place to admire all that nature has to offer, with two bridges, several waterfalls, and flowers surrounding the water, making it the perfect location for photography. Hiking trails can be found throughout the park including the lakeside trail, and similar hiking trails are also present on the east side of the park. These trails are good for jogging, cycling, and walking within the park. There is also the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground that is possibly the largest playground in Ontario. Additionally, there is a free zoo open all year long featuring animals such as bison, llamas, peacocks, and more! Fishing is permitted in High Park, but only in certain areas.

6. Meadowvale Park

"Meadowvale Park" (CC BY 2.0) by Kevin Cabral

Meadowvale Park is another place worth checking out this summer, located on 1081 Old Derry Road West. There are a multitude of facilities available within and around the park such as washrooms on the east side of the river, parking, and a bridge connecting the two areas over the Credit River. There’s much to see and do in the park including the Glassford Trail, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. There are also many opportunities for bird watching and photography because of the peaceful and relaxed environment. In addition to things to see, the park also has cultural heritage sites. On the East side you’ll find picnic areas, shelters, and barbeques.

The above parks are just a few of the many places and hidden gems that make living in the community we do that much better. Hopefully you’ll have a chance to visit these superb destinations. Whether it be for an evening stroll or an exciting day of activities, it’s safe to say there’s something for everyone to enjoy in these parks.