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.

• Book a site on our camping reservation system. 
• Please read our Camping Reservation Policy.

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

Alcohol and Cannabis: Alcohol is permitted only on registered campsites. Cannabis is permitted on campsites and in open spaces. Smoking of cannabis is not permitted near playgrounds or in the beach area. A total alcohol and cannabis ban is in effect on the Victoria Day and Labour Day weekends (Thursday at noon to Tuesday at noon).

Radio free areas: Campsites 175 to 199

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

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. 

Paddling

You can paddle around islands, past towering cliffs and through narrow channels in Rockwood reservoir. You can bring your own craft and put in at the end of the beach or at the Harris Mill Ruins. 

Check the Rockwood fees page for rental fees.

Boat launches and rentals

• The boat launches located at the beach and the Mill Ruins are closed to vehicle access until May 1, 2023. 
• Canoe and kayak rentals are closed until May 1, 2023. 

Picnicking

Picnic tables are scattered throughout the conservation area. 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 flashlight, helmet, long sleeve pants and long sleeve shirts are suggested. The caves are not accessible to the public between October 16 and March 31 to protect bats while they hibernate.  

Events and activities

There are no events scheduled at this time.

 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.

Learn more about beach conditions. 

Winter 

Rockwood is open year-round. Visitors enjoy hiking during the winter months. Ski equipment rentals are not available at this conservation area.

Services at the conservation area are reduced from October 16 until April 30 each year:

• There is no water access for unloading boats, and no flush washrooms available.
• A parking lot, garbage receptacles and a portable washroom are available.
• Please be prepared to pay entry fees using exact change at our self-registration station or use the online ePass system, when staff are not present.

Please note that winter activites are subject to change, based on weather conditions. In addition, the conservation area 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 ice and firewood, 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. Please note The Pavilion is not available to rent in 2022.

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 stand is closed.

Playgrounds and sports fields

Rockwood has a playground and mini-golf course.  

Waste and recycling

Garbage containers are located throughout the conservation area and will be emptied as frequently as possible, however please visit responsibly and if garbage bins are full, take waste with you to dispose of at home.

Recycling bins are located in the campgrounds and at the dumping station. Please use the bins, as there is no collection from the campsites.

Dog policy

Dogs are welcome, but please note:

• Dogs must be on a leash that is no longer than two metres and be under control at all times.
• Dogs are not permitted in the beach area.
• Please clean up after your dog.
• Dog owners can be fined if these regulations are not followed.
• Read more about dogs in our conservation areas.

Nearby services

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