Komoka Provincial Park is one of the most interesting Provincial Parks in our area, with diverse habitats that include open fields, forests and the Thames River. Late summer is when many offspring are added to the mix that includes adults, making it very likely to see deer, songbirds and waterfowl, and hopefully reptiles and amphibians. There will also be many wildflowers along the way.
To become acquainted with Komoka, please take a look at this video filmed there last year: https://youtu.be/wOnb2I1LyKM.
Meet in the parking lot of Gideon Drive.
Hikers should come prepared to traverse uneven terrain, as we will make our way down to the Thames River on this hike. Consider bringing binoculars, cameras and good hiking footwear.
Permits are required for parking in the lot. Available for sale on the Ontario Parks website are vehicle permits – they can be arranged at home before your arrival or in the parking lot using a QR code. This latter method sometimes results in frustration if there are connectivity issues with your cell phone. Passes can also be borrowed from the London Public Library, but it’s best to request them early due to the demand.
Directions: The Parking Lot is located at 503 Gideon Dr, London ON N6K 4N8. To obtain a permit, visit https://reservations.ontarioparks.ca/ and search for “Pay and Display Parking”, then search for Komoka Provincial Park. You can only get a permit on the day of your arrival but don’t select it early. The reservation clock starts at the time of your permit purchase. A map will come up. Select the Gideon Drive location. Then there will be choices for the length of the visit. I would suggest you select 4 hours or a full day, so you are not rushed. A four-hour permit will cost $8.50 (a two-hour permit costs $6.50), whereby your plate number will be registered. No need to lay a permit on your dashboard.
Kathleen Holland hollandkm@hotmail.com
