Kitchener 
Overview
Credit: Grand River parks
You won’t believe these natural wonders exist in Ontario!Get out and explore mother nature at Rockwood Conservation Area in Guelph. Here you will be amazed by the stunning natural wonders – in this one place, you can spot the following towering limestone cliffs, caves and glacial buffs.
Interestingly, the bluffs range from 5 – 30 meters and 7 – 200 meters wide. Rockwood Conservation Area offers such a unique look that you may even recognize from popular television shows or movies such as Murdoch Murders and Cheaper by the Dozen 2!
You can also explore ruins of the Harris & Co. Rockwood Woolen Mill.
This beautiful destination is open year-round, with camping from May.
Things to Do at Rockwood Conservation Area
Credit: Grand River parks
- Explore the caves: Brave the dark and be rewarded with ancient stalactites, columns and flowstone! For this adventure, you’ll need the correct equipment such as a flashlight, helmet, long-sleeve pants and long-sleeve shirts. Cedar Ridge Trail will take you to the caves.
- Hikes: By land, there are two main hiking trails which provide spectacular views of land, water and forest. The terrain is pretty steep with cliffs, but the rewards are unforgettable. Hike the Pothole Trail, which will take you to the big glacial potholes and the ruins of the Harris & Co. Rockwood Woollen Mill.
- Paddle and Canoe: By water, you can paddle the serene Eramosa River, taking your time while you enjoy the scenery from a special angle – plus when it’s a hot day, you’re that much closer to the water for a dip!
- Swimming: Escape the heat with a dip. Swimming is a perfect way to enjoy Rockwood Conservation Area, and it is paired with a beautiful sandy beach to take in some of the sunshine afterward. There are no lifeguards, so you must be a confident swimmer.
- Picnic: The pretty beach is also the ideal place to enjoy a nice picnic lunch, or you can opt for one of the many picnic tables scattered around. If you forgot to pack food, there is a concession stand at the park which sells a selection of fast food, ice cream and other treats.
- Fishing: The Eramosa River is home to fish such as carp, bullhead, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass – so the small reservoir makes for a fun fishing destination, too.
- Mini Golfing: If you are looking to do something a little bit different, there is a mini golf course and a children’s park located at the front entrance.
- Camping: From May each year, camping is available in one of the over 80 spectacular campsites, either serviced or unserviced, so your time in nature can last a bit longer! Reservations are recommended if you want to camp, as spots go quickly!
When to Visit Rockwood Conservation Area
Credit: Grand River parks
The park is open year-round, with camping from May 1 to October 15, with limited services from October 16 to April 30.
The park is closed December 24, 25 and 26.
The caves are closed from October 16 to May 31 as they are an important bat habitat.
How to Get to Rockwood Conservation Area
Rockwood Conservation Area is located at 161 Fall St. S., Guelph.
Parking is available.
How much to visit
- Preschool (3 and under): Free
- Child (4-12): $4.00
- Adult (13-64): $9.50
- Senior (65+)/ Person with disabilities: $7.50
- ePass vehicle rate (attendant off duty. Available October — May only): $19.00
Camping: $52.50 to $70.00
Canoe rentals are also available.
More Things to Do:
