Carden Alvar Provincial Park

Carden Alvar Provincial Park is a protected natural area in Ontario built on limestone rock with minimal soil coverage. This terrain creates conditions where only specific plant species can grow and survive.

The area was formed in 2014 when two farm properties, Cameron Ranch and Windmill Ranch, merged together. They were then placed under Ontario Parks management to protect these special habitats.

The name comes from the word 'alvar', referring to limestone rock landscapes where specialized plants thrive. Visitors see hikers and nature enthusiasts moving through the open meadows, seeking out the rare species that grow there.

The area has no facilities or campgrounds, and visitors should explore on foot with proper gear. Access to the Windmill Ranch section is limited and requires arranged tours through the Couchiching Conservancy.

The area is home to one of three breeding sites in Ontario for the Loggerhead Shrike, with nearly half of the province's breeding pairs nesting here. Wylie Road is a known observation spot where birders have recorded around 230 different bird species.

Website: https://ontarioparks.com/park/cardenalvar

GPS coordinates: 44.63080,-79.05480

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22