Supplying base flow waters to the Saugeen, Beaver, Mad and Grand River systems, the Osprey Wetlands span an area of over 6,500 acres. The NVCA owns and manages over 700 acres for conservation purposes, divided between two locations. 

Defying the traditional fate of wetlands in Southern Ontario, the Osprey Wetlands has endured more than a century of settlement and remains relatively undisturbed. These wetlands are one of the highest elevations in Southern Ontario-they are essentially a 'raised bog' that rest in a depression of bedrock. One of many unique features found in this vast wetland is an esker (see above) surrounded by pockets of White Pine, Black Spruce and mixed hardwoods, all making for a diverse array of wildlife habitat.

The NVCA's portion of Osprey Wetlands was purchased through a joint effort of Nature Conservancy Canada, Imperial Oil Ltd., the Laidlaw Foundation, and the Ministry of Natural Resources. The Osprey Wetlands are managed for conservation and recreational purposes and are considered a non-intensively used area.

Recreational Visitors

The Osprey Wetlands are an ideal spot to see by snowshoe or cross-country ski during the winter months. There are picnic tables but no outhouses on site. 

Parking Fees

• ​Daily Parking - $10.00  + HST per vehicle
  
• Annual Parking - $71.00  + HST ​per vehicle (valid for all NVCA-operated conservation areas)
  
• For payment options and details, see parking fees.

Your parking fee helps offset the cost of maintaining and improving NVCA conservation areas.

Operating Hours

• Dawn to dusk, daily
  

Hunting

The area is also well known for hunting and fishing. Hunters must purchase a permit from the NVCA to hunt in the Osprey Conservation Area, in addition to regular hunting requirements. Hunting Permits may be purchased at the Administration Officer; hunting permits also cover parking fees for the hunting season.

Getting there:

• ADDRESS: 309000 Centre Line, Municipality of Grey Highlands
  Area 1 (map)
  Area 2 (map​)​
  
• GPS: Area 1: X-559340, Y-4903434; 
  Area 2: X-553071, Y-4901518
• DIRECTIONS: There are two portions of the Osprey Wetlands owned by the NVCA. From the Town of Shelburne (which can be accessed from Highway 400 by exiting at Highway 89 and driving west), travel north on Simcoe Road 124 for approximately 23 km. Turn left onto Centre Line and travel 2 km to Area 1, or 8 km to Area 2.