A massive summertime attraction is scheduled to reopen for the season this Saturday, and because it’s just over a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto, it makes for a pretty convincing day trip.
Canada’s largest outdoor pool is located at Byng Island Conservation Area, Dunnville, Ont. According to the Grand River Conservation Authority, the pool spans 1.85 acres and can hold up to 1,000 people! The area includes a wading section and spray pad for younger visitors, along with a deeper zone and diving board if you want to channel your inner Olympian.
And Byng Island has much more than a huge pool. The 190-hectare conservation area sits along the Grand River, with access to Lake Erie, making it a great spot for camping, fishing and paddling. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboats are available to rent, and there are boat launches if you want to bring your own watercraft.
A trip south along the Grand from Byng Island will lead you through cattail marshes, where you might spot a bald eagle and other marsh wildlife. Anglers can go after more than 20 species in the Grand River and Lake Erie, including walleye, pike, rainbow trout, bass, salmon, channel catfish and more, all with some seriously scenic waterfront views.
Or skip the water altogether and head straight to the trails. Byng Island offers three different looped trails: the Creekside Trail, Carolinian Trail and the Pines Trail. Together, they add up to about two kilometres, so it’s a perfect opportunity to just stretch your legs.
Afterward, make a beeline for the tables in the day-use area and enjoy a homemade picnic lunch.
The Byng Island Conservation Area pool operates from June 20 until Labour Day, Monday, September 7, with daily hours from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Make sure to factor in a day-trip budget: visitors ages four and up need a $3 pool wristband in addition to regular conservation area admission.
Or turn your day trip into a mini-getaway! Byng Island has 365 campsites across four main campgrounds, with options ranging from forested and riverfront sites to serviced sites with electricity and water. Four group campsites are also available for supervised youth groups or gatherings and can be booked through the camping reservation system.
Byng Island is located at 4969 Haldimand Road 20, Dunnville, Ont., within Haldimand County. After visiting the island, check out these 35 essential summer day trips from Toronto.