Situated on 80 hectares along the shores of the Rideau River, Baxter is a beautiful example of river floodplain. Explore, year-round, the mixed hardwood forests, meadows and wetlands over the 5 km of trails and visit the unique Filmore Park Nut Grove with its many species of nut and bean trees and shrubs. Join in the excellent environmental education programs, summer day camps and seasonal community group camping. Baxter boasts a large number of picnicking areas and large covered shelter adjacent to one of the cleanest and most attractive beaches on the Rideau. Visit the Patrick McManus Interpretive Centre which hosts the many programs and is available to groups for workshops, weekend rentals and social events.

 

Parking costs $8/vehicle. Annual passes are also available for $55. Parking passes can be purchased at our pay machine as you enter the park OR through our Pay-By-Phone system. Our pay machine takes coins and credit only. More information on the “Pay-By-Phone” system, visit the "Purchase a Pass" link to the right.

FAQ:

Are dogs allowed on the beach? No, dogs are not allowed on the beach; even when no one is there we want to keep our beach clean and healthy. Thank you.
Is there a place dogs can swim? Yes. If you are standing in front of the beach, facing the water, there is a small area to the left of beach that is open to the water’s edge where dogs can swim downstream from the beach (there's a clearing in the brush).
Can dogs be off leash at Baxter? No. Dogs must be on leash at all times on Baxter property.
Is there a lifeguard? There are no lifeguards. Swim at your own risk.
Is the water safe for swimming? Our beaches are tested weekly for E.Coli in the summer to ensure they're safe for visitors to swim. At Baxter Conservation Area, RVCA staff test the waters each week and will post notices online and on site if a closure is necessary. NOTE: Swimming is never recommended after a heavy rainfall event, in areas with heavy bird activity or if Blue Green Algae is suspected. 
Trails: 5 km

Download the PDF Open Avenza map