Family Camping at Albion Hills Conservation Area

Looking to go tent camping, but don't want to venture too far from the city? Check out Albion Hills Conservation Area - one hour north of Toronto in Caledon, Ontario.

Earlier this month, we had the genius (and last minute) idea to go for a fall tent camping trip. As a first for our new family of five (yes, Bear counts as a family member), we wanted to choose some place close to home in case it was an epic fail. After scouring the provincial parks within an 1.5 hour drive and discovering they were all booked up, I remembered there are also local conservation areas that offer camping. So, just an hour from home, Albion Hills Conservation Area it was.

Set in the hills of Caledon on the banks of the Humber River, Albion Hills campground offers dramatic scenery, exciting activities and excellent facilities, just an hour north of Toronto! 

We packed up the car Saturday morning, and hit the road. Check in was at 2pm, so we weren't in any rush to get there. 

When I booked on line earlier that week, the selection was limited. I picked a spot that seemed decent, but with no photos to look at, I didn't really know what we were getting. Turns out, there was a reason that spot (#22) was not booked - it was essentially on the side of the road, with no tree cover. Completely exposed, and that was not what we wanted for the impending rain storm. So, we went back to the main office to see if there were any other sites available. Turns out, it didn't hurt to ask - we got a new site just around the corner, with enough cover to put up a tarp and keep us dry. The spot we ended up taking (Humberside #79), was also along the Humber River, with path access, so the girls had fun walking around in their boots, looking for frogs. I will admit, the site didn't have a ton of privacy BUT, for one night of camping, that was ok by us. 

After the skies cleared and the sun came out, we went for a walk around the other campsites. While closed for whatever reason (assuming either covid or because the season was winding down, we didn't ask), Poplar Circle looked to be the best tent camping sites, and ones we will remember when and if we decide to go back next year. 

With plans to hike the next morning, we took is pretty easy that afternoon, sitting around the fire, reading books, playing with Bear, looking for frogs and eating our favourite camping meal - hot dogs and beans (with some cold Ontario brews for mom and dad, of course). 

After a few toasted marshmallows, it was off to bed... for all of us. I guess that's the thing when you're tent camping with little ones. When they go to bed, so do you. Or at least that was our case - making an exit from the tent is not so easy. 

Check this out >> Whether you're going camping or for a hike with the kids, check out our Nature Walk Scavenger Hunt. (Download for free and print at home for your next outdoor adventure.)

I won't lie, it was pretty chilly. While Bear was perfectly content (and probably slept the best out of all of us), I spent the majority of the night making sure Berks wasn't too cold. Her and I were sharing a sleeping bag, and on a good night at home, she is not a fan of covers. 

We woke up to a layer of frost, and after a quick and chilly breakfast, we decided to abandon our hiking plans, pack up and head home. An hours' drive from Toronto, we can always go back. 

A note about the fire pits - If you are used to camping at an Ontario Provincial Park, you will be used to a metal pit, often with a grate for cooking. At Albion Hills, that was not the case. Instead, it was essentially a large hole in the ground. The sides of the pit were fairly sloped, so I was worried to have the girls sit too close, for fear they would lean in their chairs and fall forward into the fire. A little disappointing, but also glad I brought our portable camp stove, pots and pans as backup because they came in handy for cooking dinner!

Albion Hills has 234 serviced and unserviced sites, with some pull-through sites for RVs.

Overnight rates are extremely reasonable at $37.50 + HST per night (unserviced) and $43.00 + HST per night (serviced - 30 AMP hydro service and water).  Booking fees do apply. More information can be found on the website, here. 

If you plan to go, here are some items you may want to bring:

• Tent (This is similar to the one we have.)
• Sleeping bags (Here is the sleeping bag our daughter uses.)
• Air mattress (with battery-operated pump)
• Ground sheet (for under tent)
• Tarp with string (in case it rains)
• Camp chairs (These are the chairs our kids use.)
• Camping stove with fuel
• Camping utensils (pots, pans, etc.)
• Dishes and cutlery
• Jug of drinking water
• Reusable water bottle
• Portable coffee maker
• Reusable coffee mug
• Cooler (This is the one we have.)
• Lighter and newspaper (for fire - firewood available for purchase)
• Rain boots
• Rain jackets

Camping with a dog? Here is what we recommend you bring (on top of the usual essentials):

• Collapsible silicone water bowl
• Metal group stake
• 20 foot training leash
• Extra towels
• Extra blankets

Not a camper? Not a problem - you can still visit for the day. Check out the website for the cost of a day pass, and activities available. 

Albion Hills Conservation Area is located in Caledon, Ontario at 16500 Regional Road 50, just 8km north of Bolton.

Do you go fall camping with your family? What's your favourite place to go? I would love to hear!

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Purchasing through these links earns To & Fro a small commission. Thank you for your support!

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Roasted Beet & Kale Salad

Looking for the perfect fall recipe that's both healthy and delicious? This recipe for Roasted Beet and Kale Salad is sure to be a tummy pleaser around the dinner table. 

Beets. Some people love ‘em, some people hate ‘em. Personally, I’m a lover. Pickled, steamed, roasted, I love them all. 

I really don’t think beets get the credit they deserve. When roasted, they turn into this unexpectedly sweet vegetable. Perfect to pair with the bitterness of another one of my favourite vegetables, kale. 

Tip for buying and storing beets: When buying your beets, look for firm, small to medium-sized beets. To store, loosely wrap in paper towel and keep in refrigerator crisper for up to one week. 

This recipe for Roasted Beet and Kale Salad is sure to be a tummy pleaser around the dinner table. And it may even convert those haters into lovers of this delicious, hearty root vegetable. 

Make this salad for a hearty weeknight meal or for lunches on the go. Wherever and whenever you eat it, it’s loaded with good-for-you nutrients to keep your body fuelled as the weather turns colder and all we want to do is hibernate.

Roasted Beet & Kale Salad

Serves: 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bunch kale
• 6 large beets
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp slivered almonds, lightly toasted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• salt and pepper
• olive oil

Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Wash and dry the beets and kale.
3. Prepare the kale by removing the middle rib and chopping roughly.
4. Prepare the beets by cutting into bite size (approximately 1 inch) chunks.
5. Toss the kale with salt, pepper and a small amount of olive oil. Place on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Roast in the oven for approximately 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. 
6. Toss the beets with salt, pepper, garlic powder and a small amount of olive oil. Place the chunks on lightly oiled baking sheet. Roast for approximately 45 minutes, tossing twice.
7. While beets are roasting, make the vinaigrette. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt and pepper in small bowl and set aside.
8. When beets are roasted to your liking, remove from the oven and allow to cool. 
9. In a medium bowl, combine the roasted kale and beets, thinly sliced red onion and half of the slivered almonds. Toss with honey-lemon vinaigrette. 
10. Garnish with remainder of the slivered almonds.
11. Enjoy!

What is your favourite (healthy) fall meal? I'd love to hear!

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A Fall Family Road Trip Through Ontario’s Blue Coast

When you think of a place that makes your heart happy, what comes to mind? 

For me, it’s Ontario’s Blue Coast. 

Earlier this fall, we had the chance to explore my old stomping grounds - Ontario Southwest’s Sarnia Lambton. Better known as, Ontario’s Blue Coast. 

Located a short 2 1/2 hours southwest of Toronto and 1 hour north of Detroit, Lambton County is the perfect day or weekend getaway - from arts and culture, to the stunning Lake Huron beaches and everything in between, there are many ways to experience the Blue Coast. And one of the best times of the year to explore is the fall.

With the vast array of scenic drives, fall fairs and farms to explore, there is so much to do in Sarnia-Lambton during the fall months. 

Hop in the car, and join us on our fall family road trip through Ontario’s Blue Coast…

FRIDAY

After leaving Toronto before ‘rush hour’ hit, we arrived in Lambton County early afternoon. We dropped Morley off with Gramma and Poppa and drove to F.I.N.E. a restaurant in Grand Bend for dinner, just mom and dad (and baby Berkley, of course - she doesn’t stray too far from mom yet).

F.I.N.E specializes in regional cuisine with exciting daily specials, utilizing the local wealth of fresh available ingredients. After enjoying the mussels as an appetizer, for the main course I opted for the local pickerel with seasonal veg and Steve had the duck. The peanut butter cheesecake and local wine from Dark Horse, the local winery, were also delicious. 

We had an amazing dinner experience, and part of that was in thanks to the Grand Bend locals that were also dining. As we had Berkley with us, we were taking turns eating. Pretty typical when we’re out these days, and a cold meal is something we’re now used to. A woman the table next to us asked us if she could hold the babe while we both enjoyed our dinner. Without hesitation, I passed Berkley over. And it didn’t end there - two ladies from the table on the other side of us said they wanted to hold her as well. Safe to say, we enjoyed our meal at F.I.N.E. that much more knowing that Berkley was content. We are very thankful for the complete strangers offering to hold her. Now, I wonder if that would happen in at home in Toronto… (but that’s for another time). 

SATURDAY

We woke up Saturday morning and the sun was shining. We knew it was going to be the perfect day for exploring.

We drove back down Lakeshore Road to Ipperwash Beach, and enjoyed breakfast with the entire family at the Ipperwash Beach Club. This local dining spot is just steps from the Lake Huron beach access tucked away in this quiet community of Lambton Shores. Breakfast consisted of eggs benedict and smoke salmon roti. Both delicious! With a large patio, we could tell it would be a popular spot with all of the cottagers during the summer months and vowed to come back.

After breakfast, it was time to continue our annual apple picking tradition. This year, we visited Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House, an award-winning cider house located in the countryside. The weather was perfect for hitting the orchard and filling our basket with apples. 

Make note, if you plan to visit, be sure to mark Apple Fest (the last weekend of September) in your calendar. It’s busy, but a great chance to pick your own apples, sample both hard and sweet cider and choose a pumpkin to carve for Halloween. 

After a quick afternoon siesta back at Gramma and Poppa’s house, it was time for more food! Dinner was at Grog’s Pub and Grill, located on Lakeshore Road in Port Franks, not far from Twin Pines. To be honest, I’ve driven past Grog’s many times but have never actually stopped in. Even with an early dinner at 4:30pm, there wasn’t an empty seat in the house. It is definitely a local hot spot. And after enjoying one of their homemade pizzas, we know why. It was delish!

Safe to say, after our fall fun-filled day, it was an early night for everyone. 

SUNDAY

We woke up Sunday to grey skies and rain. Not the ideal day, but that didn’t stop us from making the most of our last day.

Breakfast was at Highway Girl, a finer food shop in Grand Bend featuring a bakery and cafe with a lovely retro style gift shop with local goods. They offer a wide variety of fair trade specialty coffees and teas, fresh baked delights and pressed juices. Their breakfast bomb (tasty dough filled with egg and bacon) is delicious, and toddler-approved. 

It’s been years since I have visited the Pinery Market, located along Lakeshore Road not far from the entrance to Pinery Provincial Park. Pinery Market is a family-owned market filled with an eclectic blend of vendors, from local produce and meat to toys, antiques and more. The Market runs every Sunday from the beginning of May until Thanksgiving weekend. Be sure to check their website for all of their fun family events, including Barktober Fest and Superhero Sunday.

Before heading back to Toronto, we stopped for lunch at the Schoolhouse Restaurant in Grand Bend. Grand Bend Public School opened in 1874 and remained an active school until 1925 when a new school was built. Today, the old schoolhouse is a restaurant filled with history and delicious food. Schoolhouse specializes in from-scratch fare (the biscuits and sausages gravy are seriously delicious), ensuring the finest ingredients make it onto your plate. 

With full bellies and full hearts from a weekend of family fun, it was time to hit the road and head back to the concrete jungle of Toronto.

Every time I visit, I’m quickly reminded why I love this little corner of Ontario so much - good food, good scenery and good company make my heart so happy. 

Until next time Blue Coast…

Have you ever visited Ontario's Blue Coast? What is your favourite thing to do there? I'd love to hear!

Disclaimer: This trip was in partnership with Ontario's Southwest and Ontario's Blue Coast, however, all opinions are 100% that of To & Fro.

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Fall Family Traditions

*This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.

It’s hard to believe that in just ten short days, we will be saying an official goodbye to summer. Fall is just around the corner. 

After spending the majority of the summer basking in the AC (thank you pregnancy), I am excited to be able to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather, crisp air and changing colours this fall with my family. That is, before baby and I go back into hibernation this winter. 

Fall is the chance for new traditions, new routines and new memories.  And while we have our favourites, we are so excited to be able to create new ones with little sissy this season.

In our family, fall is filled with fun family traditions. Here are just a few of our favourite. 

Go apple and pumpkin picking.

No fall is complete without a visit to the local apple orchard or pumpkin patch to pick your own. Many farms also offer special activities for families, such as hayrides, petting farms, corn mazes and more. 

And because picking apples and pumpkins (and, ahem, chasing after a toddler, ahem) is a tough job, and can bring aches and pains, we always keep ALEVE® in our diaper bag, just in case. After a full day of activities, ALEVE® Nighttime helps to relieve mom and dad's muscle aches and pains for up to 12 hours - plus it has a sleep aid to help fall asleep and stay asleep after a fun-filled day.

>> You may also like:  Tips for Apple Picking with Your Family

Bake all the fall goodies.

Once you leave the orchard, don’t let the apple fun stop. Head home and make some homemade apple sauce, apple pie or apple crisp (our personal favourites).

A trip to the family cottage.

One of my favourite times to visit our family cottage is in the fall, when the leaves are changing. The tourists have all gone home for the year, so it is much quieter, and there’s just something about the smell of a wood fire in the fall that makes me happy.

Go on a fall walk.

There’s nothing better than going for a long, fall walk to take in all the sensory experiences the season has to offer - from the smell of fresh air, to the colourful changing leaves. And for our toddler, jumping in the fall leaves.

But with the change of season comes a change to our wardrobe. Switching from sandals to shoes and boots can be uncomfortable as our feet get used to different footwear. To help ease any discomfort, add a pair of Dr. Scholl’s® Comfort and Energy Massaging Gel® Insoles your footwear. These insoles are great for foot and leg fatigue, with gel waves that massage the most sensitive areas of your foot.

Watch a fall sunset.

There’s just something about a sunset, am I right? Although it means the days are getting shorter, fall sunsets can be enjoyed by the whole family because they now take place earlier in the evening. It is the perfect time to turn off what you’re doing and just sit and enjoy the rainbow sky.

>> You may also like: 50 Essential Fall Activities 

Our family is always looking for new fall activities to do together. What are some of your favourites? I’d love to hear!

*This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.

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Road Trip: From Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

*This post was sponsored by Cars.com, however, all opinions are 100% that of To & Fro.

Road trips are our thing. We love a good road trip. 

When we lived in Alaska, our favourite thing to do during our summer weekends was to pack up the car with our outdoor gear and just drive. Drive to explore new places and spaces, down roads we had never been. 

When planning our Alaskan adventure this time around, we knew the three(ish) hour trip down to the Kenai Peninsula to visit friends was a must. We had done the drive a handful of times before, but this time was a bit different. Not only did we have a little one in tow this trip, Anchorage had been blanketed by dense fog the days leading up to our road trip. We knew that there was the potential the drive could get a bit dicey going through the mountains pass. But, as they say in Alaska, you can't plan around the weather. 

Despite the weather, the drive down to what is affectionately known as "Alaska's Playground" is always an adventure, and one serious visual buffet. 

Hop in the car. Let me take you on a scenic road trip from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.

It’s 9:30am on an early November day. We hit the Seward Highway and head south out of Anchorage just as the sun is rising. The dense blanket of fog and cotton candy skies make the first leg of the journey along the Turnagain Arm especially stunning, and easily the most dramatic. 

As we leave the “big city” behind, the highway narrows to two lanes, and is sandwiched between Potter Marsh on our left and the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet on our right. 

Potter Marsh is a favourite for nature lovers, often welcoming snow goose on their migratory stopover, spawning salmon, bald eagles and the occasional moose. Maybe we’ll stop there on the way back, hoping the fog has lifted.

Past the marsh, the road begins to wind - this time, we have the ebbing and flowing tide of the Cook Inlet on our right and the steep rocky cliffs of the Chugach State Park on our left. A bit of a change of scenery. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the white specks in the mountains - they may just be dall sheep.

We’re in a bit of a time crunch. But, if we could, we would stop at one, or more, of the many scenic lookouts or tiny towns along the way - Beluga Point, Bird Point, Girdwood and Portage Valley, just to name a few.

As we pass the Portage Valley turnoff, where you would catch the access tunnel to Whittier and Prince William Sound, we begin to wind ourselves around the tip of the Turnagain Arm. Again, the scenery changes. Now with mountains as far as the eyes can see. We have officially reached Turnagain Pass. 

Continuing on the highway, we make a short pit stop to get our photo taken at the Kenai Peninsula welcome sign. A must do.

Back on the highway, a sign for Hope suddenly appears. Seeing as we’re on an adventure, let’s go down a road we’ve never traveled and check out the small town. Population 192. 

And, just as quick as we arrive, we turn back around to the highway. I'm sure its a beautiful, bustling little town in the summer, but in early November, there's not a soul in sight. 

At Tern Lake, we take a slight right at the fork and meet up with the Sterling Highway, one of Alaska's Scenic Byways. This highway is a popular place in the summer months as it leads to some of the best fishing spots along the Kenai River. 

During a road trip in the summer, its not rare to see shoulder to shoulder “combat” salmon fishing along the banks of the turquoise-coloured Kenai and Russian Rivers, or the odd bear wandering the banks in search of its next meal. 

This area truly is Alaska’s Playground, and is also a haven for rafting, flight seeing, horseback riding, hiking, camping and more. This time of year the bears are sleeping, but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and moose!

Continuing on, we pass the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and drive through the small towns of Sterling and Soldotna. Not far from Sterling is Funny River. You may have heard about the terrible forest fire that happened there a few years back. 

If you hook a right through Soldotna, you’ll be taken to the Peninsula’s namesake, the town of Kenai itself. 

Seeing as we've been in the car for a few hours now, lets make a pit stop for a snack at one of our favourite places in Soldotna - The Moose is Loose. Morley will tell you, they have the best apple fritter donuts. 

We're almost there, I promise.

Driving just a few miles past Soldotna, we’ve arrived at our destination of Kasilof. If time allowed, we would keep on driving to the end of the Sterling Highway and reach Homer, the halibut fishing capital of Alaska. I highly recommend planning a trip to come back during the summer months for some halibut fishing on the Kachemak Bay, a must on anyone's Alaskan bucket list. 

Now that we're here, it's time to kick back and relax for a night while we catch up with some good friends.

Thanks for coming along, we hope you enjoyed the ride!

Are you planning an upcoming road trip vacation, and in search of the perfect rental car? For peace of mind before you rent, check out cars.com for the latest expert reviews, multi-car comparisons and more! 

Have you taken any good road trips lately? I'd love to hear!