Caldwell First Nation Marina and Conservation Boardwalk

The Caldwell First Nation Conservation Boardwalk is a scenic and culturally significant destination. Rooted in a deep history of stewardship, the Caldwell people have long cared for the lands and waters along Lake Erie, including the Sturgeon Creek area, which has sustained generations through fishing, travel, and traditional ecological knowledge.

Despite displacement from their traditional territory and living without a recognized land base for generations, many Caldwell members remained connected to and continued to live within the region. In 2020, Caldwell First Nation established its Reserve in Leamington, marking an important step in reaffirming their presence and strengthening their connection to their ancestral lands—lands that hold deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance for the community.

Today, as original stewards of this territory, Caldwell First Nation continues to prioritize conservation and environmental protection, ensuring that these sensitive ecosystems are preserved for future generations. The Conservation Boardwalk is a 10,000 sq/ft boardwalk developed through a collaboration between the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) and the Caldwell First Nation. Set within a protected natural area, it offers panoramic views of Sturgeon Creek, nearby turtle nesting ponds, snake hibernacula, and diverse wildlife habitats. It provides a peaceful space for community members and visitors alike to gather, reflect, and experience not only the area’s natural beauty, but also its deep cultural and historical importance.

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