Hiking in Rockwood Conservation Area: trails, map and practical info

The two trails

Two trails circle the reservoir: the Pothole Trail (1.3 km) and the Cedar Ridge Trail (1.7 km), according to the Grand River Conservation Authority's (GRCA) 2026 map. The routes cover cliff tops, boardwalks through wetland and glacial potholes. Stay on the trails and take care near cliffs and steep slopes. Winter hiking is permitted, but trails may close without notice after storms or for events.

Glacial potholes and caves

The site has over 200 glacial potholes of varying size and diameter, formed by debris caught in meltwater eddies. The caves can be explored and hold stalactites, columns and flowstone. The GRCA recommends a flashlight, a helmet and long sleeves. They are closed to the public from October 16 to March 31 to protect hibernating bats. The trail from the Harris Mill Ruins parking lot to the caves is accessible.

The Harris & Co. Rockwood Woolen Mill ruins are closed to the public for safety reasons.

Beach, boats and dogs

A large sandy beach faces the reservoir. It is not patrolled: parents or guardians must watch children at all times. Lifejackets can be borrowed at the boat rental concession. You can launch your own canoe or kayak at the end of the beach; a canoe or kayak rental is $26.50 an hour with a $50.00 deposit. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than two metres, but not in the beach area.

Fees, season and capacity

The park is open for day use year-round, dawn to dusk. Day-use admission (tax included, GRCA Rockwood fees page): adult (13 to 64) $9.50; senior (65+) or person with a disability $7.50; child (4 to 12) $4.00; preschooler (3 and under) free. From October to May, when no attendant is on duty, the ePass rate is $19.00 per vehicle, maximum six people. The gatehouse is not always open: pay cash at the self-registration station. The park is closed December 24, 25 and 26.

Accessibility and camping

Accessible parking is at the day-use lot and beside the beach, with an accessible route to the beach. The trail from the Harris Mill Ruins parking lot to the caves is accessible, and assisted canoe and kayak launches exist at the mill ruins and the group camping water access points. The campground has about 46 serviced sites (electricity and water), 16 full-service sites and 43 unserviced sites. Alcohol is allowed only on a registered campsite.

Daily visitor numbers are limited and access may be restricted; the GRCA posts real-time capacity on its conservation area status page. Camping runs May 1 to October 15; services are reduced from October 16 to April 30, with portable washrooms in the off-season. Drones are not permitted and bicycles are not allowed on trails unless posted.