Catfish Creek Conservation Authority

Some weddings are meant to happen outdoors, among trees and trails, where the natural world becomes part of the day.

The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority welcomes weddings at the Springwater Conservation Area, located near Aylmer. The conservation area includes a full-service campground, day use facilities, hiking trails and facility rentals.

At its heart is the Springwater Schoolhouse, built in 1885. The conservation authority describes it as a perfect setting for rustic weddings, and it can comfortably hold up to approximately 40 guests, making it well suited to an intimate celebration.

The schoolhouse offers barrier-free access and can also be used for meetings, parties and reunions.

The area also has two serviced pavilions that are open year-round by reservation, including a wheelchair-accessible pavilion that sits directly across from the conservation authority's administration centre and is available to rent for events including weddings, picnics and family reunions.

Because Springwater is also a campground, the schoolhouse and pavilions make a natural base for group camping. Family and friends might pitch tents or book a cabin nearby and turn the wedding into a weekend outdoors.

For couples who picture a small, nature-inspired wedding in a historic schoolhouse surrounded by trails and trees, the Springwater Conservation Area offers a simple and heartfelt setting.