Award: Hidden Gem!
Nestled among the historic streets of Richmond Village sits a lovely little park, complete with picnic tables, a wooded trail and a public dock on the Jock River.
Richmond Conservation Area is a true hidden gem: walkable for local residents, free parking for visitors, and the perfect place to host your next family picnic or escape the demands of modern living for a while.
A secluded bench beside the water offers a scenic spot to reflect, and the public dock is a great spot to launch a canoe or kayak, cast for fish or snap a stunning sunrise photo for all your Instagram followers to adore.
Beginning near the town of Montague, the Jock winds through the Richmond Fen, a provincially significant wetland, before reaching the village of Richmond and continuing through the southern suburbs of Ottawa. The river is home to 18 species of fish as well as a number of at-risk species, including the loggerhead shrike, spotted turtle and eastern milksnake. In 2014, the RVCA established a new, award-winning fish embayment along the conservation area's shores, creating new, rich habitat for fish and other wildlife.
But don't take our word for it – head down to Richmond Conservation Area and see for yourself what the Mighty Jock has to offer!
For all the details and directions, visit https://www.rvca.ca/conservation-areas/no-fee-required/richmond-ca.