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 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.

Book a site on our camping reservation system. 

Please read our Camping Reservation Policy.

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. 

Canoes, kayaks and pedal boats are available for rent. Hours of operation are 10am to 5pm (last boat rented 4pm) from Tuesday to Thursday; and 10am to 7pm (last boat rented at 6pm) Friday to Monday. Check the Rockwood fees page for rental fees.

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.

Please note we are currently not offering the life jacket loaner program. 

Learn more about beach conditions. 

Winter programs

Rockwood Conservation Area is open year round, including the winter months. While visitors may enjoy winter hiking, Rockwood is not offering a formal winter program.

Services are reduced October 16 until April 30 annually. There is no water access with a vehicle for unloading boats, and no flush washrooms available. Services that are available include a parking lot, garbage receptacles and a portable washroom. Individuals should be prepared to pay with exact change for admission using our self-registration system or online ePass 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

Due to changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the food concession stand will remain closed this season.

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 people are reminded to visit responsibly and if garbage bins are full, to take their waste with them and dispose of it 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 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 Street, Guelph.
• Visit the Guelph Tourism and Wellington County Tourism websites for more information about the area.