Rockwood

Camping

Campsites: Rockwood has about 46 serviced campsites (electricity and water), 16 full-service (water, hydro and septic) and 43 unserviced sites. Up to six people are permitted per campsite. Check-in is after 2 p.m. and checkout is before noon.

Group camping: Four group campsites are available for supervised youth groups or large gatherings that require a minimum of five camping units. Contact park staff to make a reservation.

Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed only on registered campsites. There is a total alcohol ban on Victoria Day and Labour Day weekends (Thursday to Monday).

Radio free areas: Campsites 175 to 199

Tent pads: All tents must be set up on tent pads where available.

Book a site online or call 1-877-558-GRCA (4722)

Please read our Camping Reservation Policy.

Canoeing

You can paddle around islands, past towering cliffs and through narrow channels in Rockwood reservoir. Canoes and paddleboats can be rented from the kiosk on the beach. For fees, view the Park Fees page. You can also bring your own craft and put in at the end of the beach or at the Harris Mill Ruins, provided the ruins are not reserved that day.

Rental hours of operation (beginning Saturday May 13, 2017 until Labour Day Weekend): 

Tuesday to Thursday: 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (last boat out at 4:30 p.m.)

Friday: 10:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. (last boat out at 6:30 p.m.)

Saturday, Sunday and Monday (including stat holidays): 10:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. (last boat out at 6:30 p.m.)

Beginning Labour Day Weekend until October 15, 2017:

Weekends only: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (last boat out at 4 p.m.)

No rentals on Thanksgiving weekend. 

Fishing

Carp, bullhead, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are in the reservoir. In addition, brown trout and rainbow trout are stocked in the spring.

Hiking

Two trails take you around the reservoir, along the tops of cliffs, across boardwalks through wetlands and beside big glacial potholes. Please be careful around the cliffs and steep slopes. Please stay on the trail to protect our unique environment. The map in the park brochure shows the trails.

Swimming

There is a large sandy beach on the reservoir. The beach is not patrolled so parents or guardians must keep a close watch on their children at all times.

A life jacket loaner program is available. Use of the life jackets is free with a small, refundable deposit. Ask for information at the gatehouse.

Learn more about beach conditions. 

Picnicking

Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park. Visitors are reminded that conditions remain very dry. For cooking purposes, day-use visitors may use barbecues in designated picnic areas. Never leave barbecues unattended, and please use extreme caution. 

Natural features

Rockwood has a unique geological history that has left it with glacial bluffs, potholes and caves. The glacial bluffs were formed during the most recent ice age, which ended 11,000 to 16,000 years ago and range from five to 30 metres deep and seven to 200 metres wide.

The conservation area has over 200 potholes that vary in size and diameter. They were created by hard debris like pebbles and boulders that were left by the Wisconsin glacier and caught in eddies in rapidly flowing melt water.

The caves are a popular attraction and include stalactites, columns and flowstone. They are fun to explore, however long pants and long sleeves, flashlight and helmet are suggested.

Events and activities

Throughout the summer, Rockwood Park offers interpretive programs and other activities for families and children. Check at the gatehouse for information or go to our Events Calendar.

Winter programs

Rockwood Park is open during the winter months. Note that the park will be closed during the holidays from noon on December 23, 2016, and will re-open on January 3, 2017. While visitors may enjoy hiking, Rockwood is not offering a formal winter program. Services during the winter months are limited, and may include a parking lot, garbage containers and information signs.

Please note that winter activites are subject to change, based on weather conditions. In addition, the parks and/or trails may close from time to time during the operating season, sometimes without notice for safety reasons following a storm, or due to a special event

Check our winter programs page for more information.

Gatehouse

This is the location of the pay telephone and lost and found. It is the place to purchase firewood (until 9 p.m.), report any problems and concerns and to get further information about the conservation area.

Group facilities

Rockwood is a favourite location for corporate picnics, family reunions, professional film and photo shoots.

The Pavilion, a large chalet-style shelter, overlooks the beach.

The Harris Mill Ruins, constructed in 1867, is a popular spot for photos, as well as other group events. The rustic appearance of the mill ruins and beauty of the adjacent Eramosa River make a dramatic backdrop for planned events.

Contact park staff to make a reservation for these facilities.

More information is available on our Group Facilities page.

Washrooms

The washrooms in the Pineview and Cedar Valley campgrounds have flush toilets and coin-operated showers. There is also a washroom (no showers) in the Pavilion. Vault toilets are located by the group campground.

Concession stand

The food concession, at the top of the hill near the beach, is open weekends in June and daily in July and August. A trailer on the beach offers scooped ice cream. The stands accept cash only.

Playgrounds and sports fields

A mini-golf course is located near the front entrance. Discount rates are available for company picnics and large groups. There is also a playground.

Waste and recycling

Deposit garbage in dumpsters located throughout the park. Recycling bins are located at washroom facilities. Please sort your garbage. Please do not put garbage into recycling bins. Garbage bags are available at the main gate.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a two-metre leash and under control at all times. Dogs are not allowed in the beach area. Please clean up after your dog. Dog owners can be fined if these regulations are not followed.

Nearby services

• Grocery, hardware and drug stores are in Rockwood.
• Medical services are available at Guelph General Hospital, 115 Delhi St., Guelph.
• Visit the Guelph and Wellington County tourism websites for more information about the area.