With lacrosse games and sunset paddles, these Six Nations tour operators are welcoming visitors this summer

With summer approaching, Ontario residents thinking about a vacation close to home should consider Six Nations of the Grand River, says the manager of tourism for the territory.

"There are still misconceptions out there that people maybe aren't welcome in a reserve or they don't know how to [or] what to do," said Jaquie Jamieson.

Her job, she said, is to "break down those barriers" and welcome tourists into the community. 

Tour season has already started in Six Nations, and Jamieson said there are many things to do, but learning should be the starting point.

"Come sit by the Grand River if it's a nice day," she said. "But [try] to get familiar with some of the histories and who we are as Haudenosaunee people."

Six Nations, which is about 40 kilometres south of Hamilton, is the most populous First Nations reserve in Canada. It is also home to the the largest Carolinian forest in southern Ontario.

For those visiting the reserve for the first time, Jamieson recommends Where Cultures Meet, a tour package that brings visitors to cultural and historical sites like the Woodland Cultural Centre, which sits on the site of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School.

Other activities for those wanting to visit include the Ohsweken Speedway, a spa, a golf course, and kayaking, canoeing or camping at Chiefswood Park. 

"And then of course, there's lacrosse games happening throughout the season and people are welcome," Jamieson told CBC K-W's The Morning Edition.

LISTEN | Jaquie Jamieson shares what you can see and do while visiting Six Nations: 

Katie Montour is the community public relations officer at Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation.

She said Chiefswood Park is open year-round for those wanting to experience nature.

Montour said the biggest attraction at the park currently is their log cabins.

She said tourists usually enjoy the "authentic woodland experience" the park offers and are welcome to do as much or as little as they like while in the park.