Koffler Scientific
Reserve at Jokers Hill

Destination Science

A vast protected wilderness on the Oak Ridges Moraine, the Koffler Scientific Reserve at Jokers Hill is a nationally recognized site dedicated to cutting-edge research, education and public outreach in ecology and biodiversity. 


Footage by Garry Tutte

An immersive research experience

KSR’s diverse range of ecosystems and facilities attracts researchers and visitors from many different fields and disciplines for hands-on experience with ecological systems that no university campus can offer. Researchers at KSR study questions related to ecology and evolution, conservation practices, climate change, aviation, data and signal transmission, and more. 

A classroom like no other

Every year, hundreds of students and postdoctoral fellows come to KSR to work with our scientists. KSR’s unique diversity of habitats and species within a mosaic of wetland and forests offer precious opportunities to understand the profound impact of global change and expand our understanding of the natural world.

Wake up in nature

KSR has a variety of year-round shared and private accommodations for researchers, students, and visiting groups. Keep in mind that it’s good to reserve early in the season.

Explore KSR

With miles of trails through pristine wilderness, KSR offers unlimited opportunities for hiking, photography, birdwatching, and nature study.

Young people arrive at KSR for the Experimental Ecology course as science students. They leave as scientists.

Dr. Arthur Weis, University of Toronto

KSR is a hidden gem and so close to the city – 887 acres to explore, excellent overnight facilities, and an expansive lab. Even in winter my students collected a wide range of data from the ponds, sprawling forests, and areas active with wildlife, using the lab as an effective and warm staging ground. KSR affiliates generously shared their research and project ideas. Overnighting on site, students were able to bond and socialize together in the evenings.

Dr. Sean Doherty, Wilfrid Laurier University, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies

KSR represents a rare pristine site dedicated to science. I came to KSR in 2021 and 2022 to picture Impatiens capensis flowers and collect leaves and seeds in order to assess the effect of urbanization on flower shape and size. I had a wonderful experience when sampling there: the application process was quick and easy, communication with the KSR manager or director was great and my sampling ran smoothly both years I was there.

Jérôme Burkiewicz, PhD Candidate at the Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université de Montréal

A new development at KSR

A new multipurpose building that will greatly expand our operations is under construction. It will include sleeping accommodations, a communal kitchen, social gathering spaces, teaching and conference spaces, and more. This project has been made possible through generous donor support to the University of Toronto.

Construction on the main building is progressing quickly. Stay tuned for updates about this exciting project that will expand KSR’s horizons. During construction, the condition of our main roadway may be affected. For any questions or concerns please contact the Station Manager.

More than just research

While primarily a research facility, KSR welcomes field courses, group events, retreats, and creative pursuits. 

Field Courses
KSR accommodates field courses and provides overnight accommodations, indoor lab and classroom space, and a vast outdoor classroom.
Group Bookings
KSR has indoor meeting spaces that can accommodate small groups for day use. Overnight accommodations may be available. Outdoor meeting space can also be arranged.
Lab Retreats
Want to get out of the lab and into the sunlight? We offer housing and meeting spaces for lab groups looking to get out of the city.
Writing Retreats
Housing and lab space is available for anyone seeking a change of scenery when writing theses, papers, grant applications, or the great Canadian novel.
Departmental Events
We offer housing and lab/field space for graduate student and staff retreats, training events and more.
Film Production
KSR has been the site of various film productions, such as L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables (2016) and a number of TVO educational programs. 

For more information

For more information about bookings, housing and catering, please contact the Station Manager.

Please keep in mind that accommodations may be limited during the peak season (mid-April to October) and reservations for field courses should be made as far in advance as possible.

Also note that priority is given to groups and individuals conducting research at KSR.

A hidden asset to many

KSR welcomes undergraduate students, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from a range of scientific disciplines and universities across Canada and abroad.