Rockwood Conservation Area, filled with tons of unique geological features and the massive stone ruins of an abandoned mill. This park is a must-visit for anyone looking to get out of the city and reconnect with nature. Located only about an hour from Toronto, by Guelph, this park takes you away to a land far away with its towering limestone cliffs, caves and glacial potholes.
The park contains over 200 glacial potholes. Ranging from 5 to 30 meters deep and 7 to 200 meters wide, they are some of the largest potholes in the world. Created during the retreat of the last ice age, pieces of hard debris would get caught in the glacial meltwater, further eroding small crevices in the surface.
The Harris Woolen Mill was built in 1884. It was built to replace the original mill from 1867, which was damaged badly in a fire. The mill was key in supporting the Canadian Military during the first World War. Operating 24 hours a day to securing vast orders for Canadian army blankets. It operated until 1931 when it succame to the Great Depression. The mill remained with the Harris family until the 1960’s when the Grand River Conservation Authority obtained the land and converted it to a park.
What do I need to know when visiting Rockwood Conservation Area?
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How much does it cost to visit Rockwood Conservation Area?
Day use of the park to the park is $7.50 for adults, $3 for children 6-14 and $6 for seniors. There are also options for Annual memberships to all Grand River Parks. Your cost may also vary depending on what activities you are participating in. For a full listing of fees check the park site.
Where can I park when visiting Rockwood Conservation Area?
There are 3 main parking areas in the park. One just past the gatehouse, by the nature centre, one by the Harris Woolen Mill Ruins and one by the Pavillion, near the beach. Parking is included with your admission.
Is there cell phone reception at Rockwood Conservation Area?
Yes, as Rockwood is near by Guelph. The park gets full cell phone reception.
Are there washrooms at Rockwood Conservation Area?
Yes, there are several washrooms in the park. There is a washroom by the main entrance, by the beach area and one each at the Cedar Valley and Pineview camping areas.
How is visiting Rockwood Conservation Area with Children?
Rockwood Conservation Area is an excellent place to bring your kids. The park has an abundance of great activities.
The Rockwood Reservoir provides a ton of opportunities to enjoy the water. There is a large sandy beach as well as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards available for rent. Do keep an eye on your kids, as there is no lifeguard on duty.
The park also contains the Rockwood Nature Centre. Here it offers several environmental education programs that use a hands-on approach to teach children environmental concepts and foster an appreciation of the natural world.
Check out these other family-friendly parks in Ontario:
- Exploring Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
- What To Expect When Visiting Beamer Memorial Conservation Area With Kids
- Exploring Limehouse Conservation Area
The trails are wide and gravel-covered. There are some hilly parts, but the trails are mostly flat so you can easily bring your stroller. The reservoir is surrounded by tall cliffs, so be sure to keep your children on the trail at all times.
As well as its natural features, the park also has a small mini-golf course, playground and sports fields.
Where can I stay near Rockwood Conservation Area?
Overview
Rockwood Conservation Area is one of our favourite recent discoveries. The park really packs so much into such a small area and is located so close to the city. There is a system of 12 caves, making it one of the most extensive in Ontario. Also, the Harris Woolen Mill was recently restored in 2011, allowing the public to safely access the ruins.
The park has 2 main trails. One trail to take you through the forest, to the park’s caves and to the top of one of the park’s massive bluffs. The other takes you through the park’s unique wetlands and through the pothole covered terrain.
Although, where the park really shines is the cliff encased Rockwood Reservoir. Whether it is swimming at the beach or paddling by its soaring stone bluffs. This small lake is an experience like no other.
On top of all that park also has 105 campsites, so if you are unable to explore everything the park has to offer, you can even stay overnight and carry on the next day or even book multiple days.