Parks & Nature:
Dan patterson conservation area
Dan Patterson Conservation Area
11500 Highbury Ave • St. Thomas, ON • N5P 3T3
Nestled in the scenic Kettle Creek valleylands, Dan Patterson Conservation Area is a peaceful green space perfect for a day outdoors. Just minutes from St. Thomas, this popular picnic destination features plenty of shade trees, a large picnic pavilion, barbecue facilities, and an open-air playground that makes it ideal for families and group gatherings.
But Dan Patterson is more than just a picnic spot—it’s a place steeped in local heritage. The site is home to a restored log cabin, originally built by Alexander Patterson, a Scottish immigrant who settled in the area in 1834. Visitors can also explore replicas of a traditional water tower and windmill, offering a glimpse into 19th-century rural life in Elgin County. Every August, the park comes to life with the Elgin Historical Show, a beloved local event celebrating our agricultural and industrial past. Visitors can enjoy steam-powered machinery demonstrations, a hearty thresherman’s breakfast, and antique tractor displays, along with a variety of hands-on exhibits that bring history to life. Whether you're interested in a quiet nature escape, a family picnic, or a step back into Elgin County’s past, Dan Patterson Conservation Area offers something for everyone. nearby attractions🌳 What to Expect at Dan Patterson Conservation Area:
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🕖 HOURS
Open Year Round DETAILS
🦅 Birdwatching ⛺ Group Camping 🐕 Dog Park 🥾 Hiking Trails 🎿 Cross-County Skiing 🧺 Picnic Facilities 🛝 Playground 🚗 Parking On-Site |