BMCA was established in 1961, after 52.6 hectares of land were purchased by the then Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

BMCA offers visitors an array of activities and attractions, including picnicking, hiking, soccer and baseball fields, a golf driving range, bird watching, nature viewing, a Treetop Trekking aerial course and a BMX track.

The park's regular operating season runs from mid-April to Thanksgiving weekend each year, weather permitting.

During the regular season, people can enter the park for free during weekdays, but must pay a small fee for weekend visits.

It is the longest-running maple syrup festival in the GTA, running for 5–6 weeks each year, depending on the weather.

There are also a variety of family activities, such as horse-and-carriage rides, face painting, a petting zoo and pancake meals.