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Woodlots

Norfolk County proudly manages over 930 hectares of forested land across 34 woodlot properties that are open to the public for low-impact recreation and nature appreciation.


On this page

Before you visit

  • No formal facilities or parking are available at woodlots. Please park responsibly.
  • All woodlots are signed and gated for public access.
  • Woodlot trail networks are not formally maintained—use at your own risk.
  • This guide outlines general permitted uses and safety tips. Review the woodlot signage when you arrive. 

Maps

View woodlot map

Featured property: DeCloet Forest
DeCloet Forest is a 124-acre parcel of land characterized by rolling hills and a cold water creek winding through the mature deciduous and hemlock forests that cover the property. Read more.

Etiquette

  • Respect trail signs and permitted uses.
  • Pedestrians have the right of way.
  • Stay to the right, pass on the left with a clear signal.
  • Do not litter, damage vegetation, or create new trails.
  • Keep off private property.
  • Step aside for horses.

Rules and prohibited activities

To protect these natural spaces, the following are NOT allowed:

  • Paintball
  • Open fires
  • Camping
  • Unauthorized structures or signage
  • Permanent tree stands
  • Entry between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Snowmobiling

  • Not currently permitted in County woodlots.
  • To request access, contact the County to arrange a user agreement and trail designation.

Permitted activities

Dog walking

  • Dogs must be leashed at all times.
  • Uncontrolled dogs can pose risks, especially around horses.
  • Hunting dogs are exempt during hunting season.

Mountain biking, ATVs and dirt bikes

  • Helmets are required.
  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Announce your presence when approaching others.
  • Permitted in Charlotteville Tract (some areas) and the North Walsingham Tract
  • No unauthorized trail structures (e.g., ramps, bridges) unless approved through a formal Land Use Agreement with the County.

Equestrian use

  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Park trailers considerately—no formal parking areas.
  • Dogs must be leashed when riding.

Hunting and fishing

  • Permitted in most woodlots—safety is a top priority.
  • Must follow Ministry of Natural Resources licensing and seasonal regulations.
  • Hunting is not allowed in woodlots: WD1, WD3, and T1.
  • Only portable tree stands are allowed during hunting season.
  • Rabbit and pheasant hunters must also obtain a Municipal License.
  • Always comply with requests from enforcement officers.
  • View Tentative dates for the deer and moose hunting seasons

Safety and wildlife awareness

Poison ivy

Common along trails and forest edges.

  • Symptoms:
    • Itching, redness, swelling, and blisters (within 24–48 hours).
  • Identification:
    • Three pointed leaves (middle leaf has a longer stem)
    • Green in spring, red in fall
    • May have greenish-yellow berries
  • Treatment:
    • Wash skin and pets with soap and cold water
    • Remove and wash clothing separately
    • Seek medical help for severe reactions

Mosquitoes and ticks

  • Mosquitoes may carry West Nile virus.
  • Ticks (especially black-legged ticks) can transmit Lyme disease.
  • Prevention Tips:
    • Wear long sleeves, pants tucked into socks, and closed shoes
    • Use insect repellent with DEET
    • Stay on trails
    • Remove ticks promptly and safely

About the woodlots

  • Norfolk County began acquiring forest tracts in the 1920s, with the most recent addition in 2021 (DeCloet Forest).
  • Many properties were managed initially under the Agreement Forest Program with the Ministry of Natural Resources.
  • Early efforts focused on tree planting, especially conifer species like red pine, white pine, and spruce.

Contact us

To report non-permitted activities or for more information, call 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK, extension 0.

Contact Us

ServiceNorfolk

50 Colborne Street South
Simcoe, Ontario
N3Y 4H3

Phone: 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK, extension 0

More ways to contact us

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