Foley Mountain Conservation Area is an 830 acre property overlooking the Village of Westport from the famous Spy Rock lookout. This special piece of forest has been owned and operated by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) since 1970. In the quiet rocky forests of “the mountain”, you will find 9 km of trails, picnic areas, education facilities and programming, a natural swimming area, scenic lookouts, and lots of nature to take in. Whether you are looking to do a quiet hike around the Beaver Pond Trail with your family, get your workout in climbing the White Pine Trail, bring your class for an education program, or register your child in our forest school or day camp programs, we hope you’ll consider stopping in for a visit.

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) is one of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities. Under Ontario’s Conservation Authorities Act, the RVCA is responsible for furthering the “conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in the watershed.” We are responsible for protecting people and property from natural hazards like flooding and erosion. For over 50 years, the RVCA has worked to protect the health of our watershed and the people who live in it.

In addition to environmental monitoring and reporting, on-the-ground restoration and stewardship, development review and approval, and flood forecasting and warning, conservation lands and education is a main focus of the RVCA. Not only do these lands protect important natural landscapes but they also provide spaces for residents and seasonal visitors to experience, connect with, and learn about the natural world. These are the connections that will foster a caring for the the environment and build a society of environmental stewards.