Six perfect spots for a picnic in Hamilton

You've packed a blanket and Caprese sandwiches, and plan to dine al fresco.

But where should you go?

Amid the dreamy summer sunshine, picnic season is here - and Hamilton has some amazing venues for you to enjoy.

Here are six fantastic spots for a picnic, along with what you need to know if you go:

1. Webster's Falls: Park in the lot at Greensville Optimist Park, off Brock Road in Dundas

It may require some planning, but it's worth the effort. Mosey to the top of the waterfall near the restored cobblestone bridge over Spencer Creek. The bridge was built in 1936 and restored by the Greensville Optimists Club in 2000. Lay out a picnic blanket under the nearest willow tree and dream of lazy summer days.

• If you go on a weekend or holiday during the summer months, you must book a two-hour reservation which lets you enjoy all the features of Webster's Falls, located in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area. This 22-metre classical curtain waterfall is among Hamilton's most iconic. A $10 reservation fee applies. If you're not a Hamilton Conservation Authority member, admission rates are $10.50 per vehicle plus $5 per person. For assistance or more information, email reserve@conservationhamilton.ca.

2. Sam Lawrence Park: 255 Concession St., Hamilton

This Hamilton hot spot is known for the view. And, while it might not boast wide open space to toss a football around, it's a must-visit park.

• There's at least one picnic table near the parking lot on the west side of Upper Wellington Street, and lots of space to lay out a blanket in the area just east of the Jolley Cut. The breathtaking view reaches to the Dundas Valley, over Lake Ontario and east to Niagara. There are no public washrooms in the park but you will find walking trails and parking is free.

3. Christie Lake Conservation Area: 1000 Highway 5 W., Dundas

If there is a picnic area where you can do it all, this idyllic park fits the bill. There's lots of room for everyone, whether you're on your own or with a large group or family. And you find a full day's worth of activities at Christie.

• There are hundreds of picnic tables dotting the park and charcoal barbecue rentals available. If you have a large group, you can reserve an area or even a full-service pavilion for your outing. Christie Lake has trails, a beach, fishing, cycling and more, and the grassy fields are perfect for games, races or just relaxing. Admission is $15.50 per vehicle and driver and $5 per passenger over five years old. Walk- or bike-in admission is $5. Note that boat rentals are closed for the 2022 season.

4. Confederation Beach Park: 680 Van Wagners Beach Rd., Hamilton

This well-known, HCA-operated park along the shore of Lake Ontario is huge, offering 93 hectares of ideal picnic space and a range of outdoor attractions - from the beach, go-karts, batting cages, mini golf and Wild Waterworks to restaurants like Hutch's and Baranga's on the Beach. There's also the Lakeland Centre, with a splash pad, volleyball and basketball courts and a banquet hall.

• There are picnic tables throughout the park or you can lay out a blanket on the beach. The HCA requires families or groups of more than 20 to have a permit. There is no admission fee, but parking spaces can be hard to come by. Note that Lakeland Pool is closed for the 2022 season.

5. Dundas Driving Park: 71 Cross St., Dundas

Sitting in the Dundas Valley under the towering Niagara Escarpment, this throwback promenade is just a short walk from downtown. Filled with trees, open grassy spaces, a wading pool and a children's play area, the park is always busy during the summer but somehow still peaceful.

• Picnic tables dot the park, but be aware the early bird gets the worm and many arrive in the early morning to claim a table or two under a very large tree. There are no admission fees unless you are booking a pavilion or sport field through the City of Hamilton. Note that you should give yourself at least five days for booking pavilions. The park includes two public washrooms.

6. Eramosa Karst Conservation Area: 86 Upper Mount Albion Rd., Stoney Creek

It's tight for picnicking, but the trails offer a wow factor with underground caves and streams, trees and meadows.

• There are just three picnic tables under the pavilion at the entrance of the conservation area and beside the washrooms. Be sure to use bug spray if you explore the trails or you'll be bringing home a few tick friends.

Picnic tips:

• Bring an extra blanket.

• Try reusable (think melamine) plates and a roll of paper towels or cloth napkins. You don't want to have to chase down paper plates or napkins that get blown away.

• A large spoon and a sharp knife always come in handy.

• Bring wet wipes or damp dish cloths for cleaning up sticky fingers.

• Don't forget a garbage bag. You'll need somewhere to toss the trash, even if there are garbage bins in the park.

• Pack sunscreen and bug spray.

• Leave no trace.

Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant at The Spectator. jmoore@thespec.com