Bikepacking the Upper Thames Conservation Lands with My Tern HSD

There’s something magical about bike camping—packing up your gear, setting off on two wheels, and immersing yourself in nature. My Tern HSD has made this experience even better, allowing me to explore and camp in the Upper Thames Conservation Lands with my daughter, carrying everything we need effortlessly.

The Ultimate Family Bikepacking Setup​

The Tern HSD is a compact cargo e-bike, but don’t let its size fool you—it’s a powerhouse when it comes to hauling gear. With the Transporteur Rack up front and Cargo 37 panniers in the rear, I have more than enough space for camping essentials. The Captain’s Chair transforms my bike into a comfortable ride for my daughter, my little “passenger princess.” This setup allows us to ride with stability, comfort, and peace of mind, knowing that everything we need is within reach.

Exploring the Three Conservation Areas​

I’ve had the opportunity to camp at all three major Upper Thames Conservation Areas—Fanshawe, Pittock, and Wildwood—each offering a unique experience for bike campers.

Fanshawe Conservation Area​

Located just outside London, Fanshawe offers a perfect blend of nature and accessibility. The Fanshawe Lake Trail, a 20 km loop around the reservoir, is an ideal bikepacking route with scenic views, rolling terrain, and access to backcountry campsites. With my HSD fully loaded, tackling this trail was a breeze. At camp, we enjoyed lakeside sunsets and quiet forest surroundings, making it an excellent introduction to bikepacking with my daughter.

Pittock Conservation Area​

Pittock, near Woodstock, is another fantastic spot with well-maintained trails and beautiful river views. I took advantage of the backcountry sites, which offered a peaceful retreat after a day of pedaling. The HSD’s electric assist helped us manage longer stretches comfortably, even with full gear. Pittock’s trails provided fun detours for exploration, and we even spotted some wildlife along the way.

Wildwood Conservation Area​

Wildwood, near St. Marys, was perhaps the most adventurous of our trips. The 25 km Wildwood Lake Trail offers a fantastic challenge for bike campers, with a mix of singletrack, gravel, and packed dirt. Despite the rugged sections, the HSD handled everything effortlessly. The well-spaced campsites meant we had plenty of privacy, and the stargazing opportunities were unmatched. This trip was a true test of our setup and solidified our love for bike camping.

Why Bike Camping Works​

Bikepacking with the Tern HSD is a game-changer for family camping. The e-assist makes long rides manageable, even with a full load, and the bike’s cargo capacity allows us to bring all our gear without feeling overloaded. The Upper Thames Conservation Areas provide excellent opportunities to disconnect from city life, appreciate nature, and experience the joy of adventure—on two wheels.

For anyone considering bike camping, these conservation lands offer the perfect destination. Whether you're a solo rider or bringing family along, a well-equipped cargo bike like the HSD makes the journey effortless and enjoyable. Ready to roll? The trails and campsites are waiting!