Rockwood Conservation Area - Grand River Conservation Authority

Welcome to the Rockwood Conservation Area
It is my great privilege and pleasure to welcome
you to the Rockwood Conservation Area, part of the
Grand River Conservation Authority. The Rockwood
Conservation Area is a 79 ha recreational park located
on the Eramosa River. Many unique features
found in the area include towering limestone cliffs,
caves and glacier potholes that can be viewed from
hiking trails or a canoe available for rent at the park.
The Rockwood Conservation Area is a very beautiful
but sensitive environment so while you are here
we ask you to:
• Please stay on the trails
• Do not harm trees by chopping, carving the bark
or breaking branches for marshmallows sticks
• Place tents on tent pads where provided
• Respect your neighbors
• Do not litter.
Please exercise safety while using the trails and
viewing the scenery from various lookouts.
There is very important information included in this
brochure, please take the time to read it and inform
yourself of the park guidelines, events, and notices
such as invasive species.
It is our goal to make your stay an enjoyable one.
If you have any concerns or questions please feel
free to ask a staff member in the park or at the gatehouse.
Enjoy!
Brad Dixon, Superintendent
Rockwood Conservation Area
Rockwood Conservation Area
Address and contact information:
P.O. Box 60, 161 Fall St.
Rockwood, ON N0B 2K0
(519) 856-9543 Fax: (519) 856-9516
Reserve a campsite by calling
1-866-ONT-CAMP or online anytime
at www.grandriver.ca
Emergency numbers:
O.P.P. 1-888-310-1122
(Non-emergency)
Fire 911
Ambulance 911
Guelph General 519-822-5350
Hospital
115 Delhi St., Guelph
For non-emergency concerns or disturbances
please contact a member of our staff.

2 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008
Conservation Area guidelines
Admission
Over 14 years of age $4.25
Child (ages 6-14) $2.50
5 years of age & under FREE
Buses (20 or more people) per person discount $0.25
Seasonal Walk-In Pass
Over 14 years of age $45.00
Child (ages 6-14) $35.00
Vehicle Season’s Pass
1st Vehicle $95.00
2nd Vehicle $65.00
Camping
To make everyone’s stay more
enjoyable, here are some simple
rules for conservation area users to
follow. The complete text of regulations
is set out in the provincial
“Conservation Area Regulations
(R.R.O.106/90)” as posted at the
main gatehouse entrance.
Alcohol
No alcohol on the beach or in
the day use areas. "TOTAL
ALCOHOL BAN IN AREA" —
VICTORIA DAY WEEKEND &
LABOUR DAY WEEKEND
Property
Conservation Area facilities are
there for your use, safety and
enjoyment. Don’t damage or
remove any Conservation Area
property.
Driving
Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act
applies within the park and you
must follow all rules of the road.
The speed limit is 30 km/h, and
helmets must be worn by motorcyclists.
Noise
Reservations
Keep noise down so that you
don’t disturb your neighbours.
Use of detachable, external
speakers is prohibited.
Conduct
No abuse is permitted of
Conservation Authority employees
or other patrons.
Hunting
No hunting is permitted.
Enforcement
Anyone undertaking an unlawful
or prohibited activity may be
charged, which could result in a
fine under R.S.O 1990, Chapter
T.21 of the Conservation
Authorities Act of Ontario.
Reservation Fee (non-refundable) $10.00
Rate per unit per day with one vehicle
(maximum 6 people plus admission fee)
Unserviced Site $27.00
Serviced Site $34.00
Full Serviced Site $37.50
Additional Vehicle fee (overnight) $10.00
Pavilion Rentals
Mill Ruin $600.00
Pavilion Rental $150.00
(incl. non-refundable $10 reservation fee)
Miscellaneous
Dump Station fee (non user) $10.00
Firewood
$7.00/bag
Canoe/Paddle Boat rental
$12.00/hour
Showers (quarters only) $0.25
Hours of Operation
Concession:
Weekends
10am - 8pm
Weekdays
10am - dusk
Don’t Get Caught Without a Campsite—
Make a Reservation!
Toll Free Reservations:
1-866-668-2267
Or on the internet at www.grandriver.ca
For group site reservations or Pavilion reservations contact the park.
A credit card is needed for reservations at the call center or on the internet.
"TOTAL ALCOHOL BAN IN AREA" — VICTORIA DAY WEEKEND & LABOUR DAY WEEKEND
A RESERVATION DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY IMPLY AN OPTION TO EXTEND YOUR STAY
Used propane cylinders
Because of the Hazardous Nature of these cylinders they should not be reaching
the landfill site. The parks pay thousands of dollars to have them disposed of
properly, this money could be spent more productively in the park. Please take
them to the hazardous waste disposal site near your home. Make the right choice
for the environment; please do not use disposable propane cylinders at all.
Boat Rentals
Gatehouse/Firewood
Mini-Golf
10am - dusk
8am - 9pm
8am - dusk
(Times subject to change)
Whistle Stop
Variety n’ Grill
“The Best Coffee
in Town”
Voted by people of Rockwood
154 Main St. N., Rockwood
519-856-4801
All day Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Everyday Special
• Fish & Chips • Wraps
• Philly Cheese Steak • Hot Hamburger
• Chicken Fingers • Sausage on a Bun
Alma St.
Whistle Stop
Main St.
Harris St.
Monday-Friday, 5:00 am - 10:00 pm
Saturday, 6:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sunday, 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
Guelph
7
Fall St.
Rockwood
Conservation
Area
7
Acton

Summer 2008 | Rockwood Conservation Area | 3
The Rockwood Conservation Area
Enjoy Rockwood’s scenic beauty and excellent recreational facilities
Area background
Rockwood Conservation Area is
one of many conservation areas
within the Grand River watershed
that is operated by the Grand
River Conservation Authority. The
Rockwood Conservation Area
consists of 79 hectacres of natural
and recreation land, located 11 km
east of Guelph, spanning the
Eramosa River. Today, the conservation
area is one of the areas
busiest recreation sites due to the
establishment of a large camping
area including 45 serviced sites,
44 un-serviced sites, 16 full service
sites, and 4 group camping
areas. The conservation area also
offers visitors hiking throughout
the park's natural areas, swimming
at a developed beach, canoeing,
picnicking, and an 18-hole miniature
golf course.
Services and facilities
• Mini-golf is located near the
front gate and provides
an excellent
challenge and amusement
for everyone.
• Food Concession can be found
in the middle of the
park above the beach
area or just follow
your nose! Cold
drinks, hotdogs, and many more
tasty treats are available.
• Washrooms are found in 3 locations
in the park; one
at the concession and
pavilion above the
beach, at the entrance
to the serviced area and in the
lower campground.
• Pay showers are
located in the serviced
area washroom
and unserviced area
washroom for $0.25.
• Outhouses or privies are scattered
throughout the park.
• Garbage can be
dropped into the
garbage bins at the
unserviced and serviced
washrooms. Complimentary
garbage bags are provided at the
gate.
• Firewood can be
purchased at the gate
before 9:00p.m. for
$7.00/bag.
• Payphones are located
at the Front Gate.
Things to do
Camping on one of the many
serviced or unserviced
sites or a large group
site. Fees for camping
are in the front of the
tabloid or could be obtained at the
gate.
Canoeing (rentals available) is
one of the most popular
activities at the park
and it doesn't matter if
you brought your own
canoe or if you need to rent one.
Canoeing the Eramosa river in the
park can be easily done by even
the most novice canoeist.
Start your journey at the beach
and canoe upstream through small
back bays and up to the waterfall
created from the upper mill pond
and its dam.
Lifevests, pfd's and paddles are
all provided. Please obey the rules
posted at the beachhouse and
enjoy.
Hiking along the river's edge or
up along the mixed
forest, the two main
trails provide plenty of
scenery and opportunity
for everyone to enjoy the great
outdoors and beauty of the park.
The trails can be accessed from
the beach, the parking lot near the
playground, or the mill ruins.
Please stay on the trail and obey
all Conservation Authorities
Regulations.
Picnicking in the park is also
one of the more popular
activities and picnic
tables are scattered
through out the park
for your use. Open
fires are prohibited and please put
garbage in the provided receptacles.
The pavilion is available to rent
may it be reunions or
large picnics just ask
at the gate for more
info.
Swimming is very popular at
Rockwood. Bring your
pails and shovels and
enjoy its large sandy
beach where children
and adults can bask in the sun.
The roped off area provides excellent
safe swimming for the whole
family.
Please obey all posted signs and
remember that there are no beach
patrol so parents and guardians
are responsible.
Please camp on the pad
provided or on the gravel spur,
not on the bark chips themselves.
ALL YOUR
PARTY RENTAL NEEDS
UNDER ONE ROOF
74 DAWSON RD., GUELPH
www.royalrentals.com
519-823-1881 1-888-823-1881

4 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008

Summer 2008 | Rockwood Conservation Area | 5
Notice to patrons & neighbours
Bird Nuisance in Conservation Areas
We would like to advise you of
a bird nuisance problem we have
at Rockwood Conservation Areas
and how we are controlling it.
In an effort to discourage gulls
and geese from using our swimming
areas, we have obtained a
"Scare Permit" from the
Canadian Wildlife Service. This
permit allows us to discharge a
blank from a firearm or similar
noise maker, around the beach
area to scare the birds away
before a problem is created.
Of course camping would not be
complete without a campfire. But
whether you’re building one for
cooking, warmth, or just for that
campfire atmosphere, there are a
few things you should do first.
• If there is a fire pit use it
• Never break branches off trees
for kindling or marshmallow
sticks.
• Never get too close to the fire or
open flames.
• No Running in this area! Ever.
Even when there is no fire.
• Never throw combustible or
flammable materials such as bottles,
gasoline, or lighters into a
fire.
The Canadian Wildlife Service
has stipulated that we inform residents
in the area of this activity.
The firing of blanks and use of
noise makers are used to discourage
gulls and geese from the lake
and the swimming area. Other
methods used to improve water
quality include:
• removal of food wastes;
• harrowing and raking of the
beach;
• increased water circulation;
Is your campfire safe?
• Avoid drinking alcohol or being
under the influence around
campfires because these substances
affect your balance,
vision, and judgment.
• removal of aquatic weeds;
• monitoring storm water runoff
in the reservoir;
• weekly monitoring of the water
quality;
Rockwood is a very attractive
area and we encourage you to
make use of our facilities.
Should you have any inquiries
about the conservation areas or
our bird control program, do not
hesitate to contact Rockwood
Superintendent Brad Dixon.
• Practice the “stop – drop – and
roll” drill in case you or someone
you know catches fire.
• Never leave a campfire unattended.
• Always have materials such as
water or sand available to control
the fire.
• Make sure your fire is never
more then one metre wide by
one metre high.
• Totally extinguish the fire before
you go to sleep or when you
leave the site.
• Under the Conservation
Authorities Act $50.00 Fine for
Unlawfully Maintain Fire!
Protect yourself from
West Nile virus
West Nile virus is established in
Ontario and is transmitted to
humans by infected mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes get the virus from
birds. There is no way to predict
how serious West Nile virus will
be in any given year, so it’s
important to take steps to protect
you and your family from mosquito
bites.
Fight the bite!
Consider using an insect repellent
containing DEET. A light
coating will do on exposed skin
and on top of clothing. Do not use
it under clothing. The concentration
of DEET should be no greater
than 30% for adults, no greater
than 10% for children, and should
not be used on children under six
months old.
You can also minimize the time
you spend outside during the
evening, night and dawn hours. If
you are outside, wear lightcoloured
dense material clothing,
long pants, long-sleeved shirts,
shoes and socks. Around your
home, don’t forget to clean up
mosquito-friendly breeding areas
such old tires, birdbaths and plastic
wading pools!
West Nile and the
GRCA
Signs are posted throughout our
conservation areas reminding customers
to protect themselves
against mosquito bites. GRCA
park and field staff monitor for
dead birds and report them to
local health units as required.
For more information, please
contact your local health unit.
Caution: Poison Ivy
Poison-Ivy is extremely variable
in both its habit and growth and
kinds of habitat. It grows in deep
woods or in the open; in dry
sandy areas, crevices of rocks, or
swamps; along the borders of
woods, fencecrows, or roadsides.
You are not safe even in your own
garden, and you may be surprised
to find it growing in your flower
beds or shrubbery. Usually it is
found in low-growing, rather
dense colonies, sometimes practically
carpeting the ground. There
is also a vine-like form in the
counties surrounding Lake Erie.
Description
Poison-ivy is a woody perennial.
It may grow as dwarf, shrubby
plants only a few centimetres high
and carpeting the ground, or as
upright plants 60-90 cm (2-3 feet)
high, or the vine-like form may
twine around trees, shrubs, or
posts and reach a considerable
distance above the ground. These
vines often develop root-like
structures which act as attachments,
but they apparently do not
damage the living plants to which
they cling.
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• Steak, Ribs, Seafood, Souvlaki, Pasta
• Delicious Desserts • Weekend Specials: Prime Rib
• Plus exclusive menu with various choices
• Lunch & Dinner
• Saturday & Sunday Breakfast take-out available
Tuesday - Sunday - 11:30am - 9pm
295 Alma St. #02
(519) 856-0728
One minute walk from park entrance, 2 doors east.
Highway 24
5259Jones Baseline
Watson Rd
Victoria Rd
Formerly Maziarz Meats
Highway 7
Come in for a
taste of Family
Tradition since 1934
Fresh Ontario Tender Beef, Pork & Chicken
Store made Sausages, Kielbasa, Bacon,
Pepperettes, Jerky & More
Assorted Cheeses
Homemade Prepared Meals, Baked Goods
and Preserves
5259 Jones Baseline, Guelph 827-1515
• Tues. 9am-4pm • Wed. 9am-5pm • Thurs. & Fri. 9am-6pm
• Sat 9am-5pm • Sun 12-5pm • Mon. Closed

6 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008
Book your wedding, family reunion or company picnic today!
Pavilion
Overlooking the beach area, it offers swimming, boats rentals and hiking trails in close proximity. This site is
sheltered and provides washrooms, hydro and water. Site fee is $160. Inquiries or reservations at park gatehouse
or Call 519-856-9543.
Mill Ruins
Whether you are looking for a site to have a ceremony or reception,
enjoy your wedding in a natural picturesque location set in a beautiful
historic structure. Total cost of $600 includes site fee and Park
admissions for guests.
Trying to keep your
busy this summer?
Have them spend the summer with us!
GRCA Nature Centres offer
children a place to explore
nature in a safe, fun and
educational environment.
Scout/Guide
badge programs
Environmental
day camps
all summer long!
Environmental
birthday parties
Guelph Lake Nature Centre
7677 Conservation Road
Guelph
(519) 836-7860
Visit www.grandriver.ca for more details and public event listings!
Visit us online!
Let us help celebrate your special day!!
r001086260
Rockmosa
Community Centre
Seats 300
Located in Rockwood
Full food preparation kitchen and bar
Air Conditioned
Tables and chairs
Ample Parking
For more information contact Vicki 519-856-9951 ext 113
All Day
Breakfast
WAFFLE
CONES
Big
Breakfast
Daily Lunch
Special
111 Main St., Rockwood
(519) 856-0188
Sunday & Monday: 11am-3pm (Closed Tuesdays)
Wednesday - Saturday: Lunch - 11am-3pm
Dinner: 5pm-9pm
Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Chicken Fingers, Fries, Wraps, Soups,
OPEN DAILY
Mon- Fri - 6:00 am
Sat - 7:00 am
Sun - 8:00 am
Salads, Muffins, Pies.
261 ALMA ST.
ROCKWOOD, ON
(519) 856-2057

The Grand River Conservation
Authority (GRCA) is committed
to sustaining the natural environment
in all parts of its day-to-day
business. You can help! During
your visit with us, there are ways
you can help reduce your environmental
footprint:
Recycle – Please use the recycling
facilities found in this conservation
area.
Conserve – Potable water is
provided for your use. Please conserve
this resource and avoid letting
the taps run needlessly during
washing or other chores.
Don’t burn rubbish – Burning
household garbage releases toxins
into the atmosphere. Burn only
dry, seasoned firewood.
Preserve our vegetation – To
prevent damage to the natural
ecosystem, refrain from picking
the many wildflowers found in
this conservation area, collecting
firewood from adjacent forests,
breaking tree branches or driving
spikes into tree trunks.
Save energy – If you have a
campsite with hydro service, run
appliances such as refrigerators,
heaters or air conditioners only
when necessary.
Avoid using disposable compressed
propane cylinders –
Used for lanterns and stoves, these
cylinders are not recyclable and
actually cost the conservation area
money to dispose of.
Summer 2008 | Rockwood Conservation Area | 7
What you can do to reduce your environmental
footprint during your visit with us!
No tax dollars are
used to help run the
conservation areas
Stay in authorized areas –
Some of the wilderness land surrounding
this conservation area is
environmentally sensitive. Remain
on authorized trails, roadways,
and pathways.
Appreciate wildlife – There are
many mammals, reptiles and
amphibians that call this conservation
area home. Enjoy watching
them but don’t handle or chase
them.
The GRCA’s Environmental
Management System is registered
under the ISO 14001 Standard for
Environmental Management.
The Grand River Conservation
Authority (GRCA) runs 12 fantastic
conservation areas, providing
camping, swimming, picnicking,
fishing and boating fun for more
than 1 million visitors every year.
The GRCA does more than run
parks however. It operates major
reservoirs for flood control, has
programs to monitor the river and
reduce river pollution, plants thousands
of trees each year, undertakes
fisheries improvement, and
protects environmentally important
land.
All of this work costs money,
totalling $29 Million in 2008.
Some of this comes from municipal
taxes - $8.54 for each person
in the Grand River watershed -
which at about the cost of a hamburger
and fries is quite a bargain
when you think about it.
As to the conservation areas,
like the one you’re visiting today -
there are NO TAX DOLLARS
that go to help run the parks.
Their entire operation and facility
improvements are funded by the
admission and camping revenue
from park patrons like you.
So thank you for visiting and
staying with us at our Grand River
Conservation Areas. Your patronage
is what helps to keep Grand
River parks open for outdoor summer
and winter fun.
Please help us in protecting this
area for the future
The Rockwood Conservation
Area has implemented a naturalization
program in the Cedar
Valley area as an effort to help
reverse the deterioration caused
from past use.
One example that has been initiated
includes the set up of tent
pads on various sites. The weight
of campers directly on the ground
creates soil compaction, causing
very little moisture to absorb the
soil. This water is extremely
important for growth, especially
new undergrowth. By setting aside
a specific area, this effect is limited
to one small area. To also help
slow this process of soil compaction
resulting in the lack of
moisture in the ground, woodchips
have been laid down on
many sites. Please do not set up
your tent on these wood chipped
areas.
Regeneration areas have been
established throughout the Cedar
Valley camping area. This
includes the removal of a preexisting
camp site and in its place
young trees have been planted.
We ask that you please stay out of
these very sensitive areas to allow
the new growth to be undisturbed
and grow healthy. Another effort
includes the temporarily resting of
a campsite. By closing a site temporary
for a year, it gives the site
a break from camper impact.
Large stones have been placed
around campsites to protect areas
from the impact of vehicles. So
we ask that you please do not
move these stones and please use
the tent pads provided.
During your visit please consider
that many of the activities that
occur in this park can harm these
trees. It is important not to drive
nails or spikes into a tree, as this
creates an entry point for decay.
Never strip the bark off a tree or
dig into the trunk with knives or
hatchets. Small trees should not
be used to tie clotheslines or tarps
to, and when tying a rope onto a
large tree, tie it loosely and
remove it before you leave the
campsite. And never break
branches off of a tree for kindling
or for marshmallow sticks.
Treating the trees at Rockwood
Conservation Area with respect
will insure that they are here for
generations to come.
Experience New Orleans Pizza!
Garlic Strips
or
Cinnamon Strips
www.neworleanspizza.ca

8 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008
The History of Rockwood
Hi-Pot-Lob Park gatehouse. The foundation can still be seen today.
John Richard Harris, son of pioneer
John Harris, established the
Rockwood Woolen Mills under
Harris and Co. in 1867. Powered
by the Eramosa River through a
Mill Race and turbine, it produced
blankets, flannels, sheeting and
more. Two Ponds were created
with the construction of two small
dams. A small wooden dam was
A view of the serviced campground.
built close to the Mill in order to
sustain water to power the turbine
thus creating a 2.2 acre Mill pond.
Another Dam was built of concrete
in the early 1900's to control
the existing 25 acre lower pond.
Workers Homes were built on the
top pond along Valley road. The
foundation of these buildings can
be seen today. The original Mill
was a wooden structure, but it
burned and was replaced with a
stone structure in 1884.
Harris and Co. continued into
the 20th century prospering
between 1915-1918, employing
70-80 and shipping large orders of
blankets to the Canadian Army.
The depression and rigid competition
from Toronto's and
Hespeler's Mills pressured the
company to close it doors officially
in 1933. After the closure of the
company, the family developed
land around the Mill as the Hi-
Pot-Lob Park, building a gatehouse
at the entrance of which is
now the head of the Cedar Ridge
trail. The public was able to view
the geological wonders that the
area gained reputation for, offering
scenic trails displaying the
many potholes, limestone cliffs
and pinnacles found throughout
the mixed woodland..
In 1958, Grand Valley
Conservation Authority acquired
the Mill along with 79 hectares
from the founder's grandson,
Edgar Harris. The machinery from
the Mill was removed and it sat
empty until a fire took place in
1967. Demolition then began
The Harris wool mill as it was in 1890.
through the years when in 1976,
the Grand River Conservation
Authority started restoration to
preserve the Mill Ruins to the
condition it stands today. Now
The Mill Ruins is a popular spot
for hikers, picnickers and large
events such as weddings.
After the purchase of the land,
the development of the land began
to form Rockwood Conservation
Area. The Upper Dam was rebuilt
in 1960. In 1962 a workshop was
constructed and the official opening
of the park followed in 1963
with the layout of the road system,
parking lots and the construction
of the gatehouse, and pavilion.
In the late 60's the beach area,
picnic areas and campsites were
developed. The GRCA and the
Ministry of Natural Resources
stocked the lower pond annually
with Rainbow Trout, a "put-andtake"
effort to promote fishing.
The popularity of the park grew
attracting more and more visitors
looking to hike, swim, fish, boat,
picnic and camp. Day-use visitors
have risen from 5,000 in 1963 to
65,000 in 1975, attracting mainly
from Hamilton, Toronto and
Guelph. Today over 75,000 visitors
enjoy the park annually.
Information found in the "The
Rockwood Conservation Area
Master Plan, 1978."
2008 Grand Biothon
Come join us celebrate the 5th
Annual Grand River Biothon,
September 21, 12:30 – 4pm.
A 24-hour search for creatures
of all varieties is taking place in
the Rockwood Conservation area
on September 20/21. This is the
fifth annual Grand River
Watershed Biothon, a fund-raising
project organized by staff at
the Grand River Conservation
Authority to support Outdoor
Education.
Join in on the fun free family
activities:
• It’s a Bug Life: catch spineless
wonders with a sweep net
• Mother Nature Bingo: identify
local plants and animals
• Wildlife Demonstrations,
including bird banding
• Cave Exploration
• Nature Walk: guided walking
tours through the conservation
area in search of wildflowers
and whatever walks, hops or
flies
Join us for a lunchtime campfire
cookout, check out our silent
auction, or purchase and tie-dye a
cool biothon t-shirt!
Teams are anchored by GRCA
staff, but also include area naturalists
and helpers. The teams
hunt for as many different species
as they can find in a 24-hour period
on the grounds of the
Conservation Area. Team members
are collecting pledges for
each species they identify in three
categories: vertebrates, invertebrates
and plants.
People can participate at three
levels: first, by sponsoring a
Biothon team member; second,
by joining the public participation
time; third by joining a team.
This last is fun and rewarding,
but is a major commitment that
involves raising money, meeting
with the team before the date and
participating in the search time.
For more information, call
519 836-7860 or 519 240-1402
or email vfieldwebster@grandriver.ca.
Donations will be gratefully
accepted at the Nature Centre
during the Biothon or on-line at
www.grandriver.ca (under education
and nature centres).
Say hello to Mohamed & Mike
and check out their SUPER SPECIALS
WIN WITH US!
LOTTERY NOW
AVAILABLE
(Alma Rd) Hwy 7
Rockwood
Conservation
Area
Fall St.
Passmore Rd.
ESSO
Convenience
Store
Inkerman Rd.
Your friendly
community gas station
Open Daily
For Your Convenience
Friendly Service For
Your Camping Needs!
Rockwood Esso & Nicholby’s Convenience • 248 Alma St., Rockwood

Summer 2008 | Rockwood Conservation Area | 9
Rockwood 2008 summer schedule
One of the best ways to get to know the
Rockwood Conservation Area is through one of
our well established park interpretive programs.
All Thursday programs begin at 2:00pm and
Saturday programs begin at 10:00am, with the
exception of our campfire stories and the night
hike which will begin at 8:00. To begin each
program one of our park naturalists will greet
you at the Trailer by the mini putt, with the
exception of the Swamp Tromp, which will
begin at the Mill Ruins. Each program will be
an exciting an informative 1 to 1.5 hours.
Date Event Description / Meeting Place
Saturday, June 21 - 10:00am Rock walk/ Salamander Stroll Travel through time with a naturalist and learn about the unique geology of
Rockwood, and we’ll look and see who is hiding under those rocks. Meet at the trailer
behind the mini-putt.
Saturday, July 5 - 10:00am Swamp Tromp Come and explore the water world of Rockwood. You’ll find yourself dip-netting
with a naturalist, looking for frogs, fish, and invertebrates near the Harris Mill Ruins.
Be prepared to get your feet wet! Meet at the Mill Ruins.
Thursday, July 10 - 2:00pm Creepy Creatures Cuddle a rat, hold a snake, wear a cockroach broach! Fun for the whole family! Meet
at the trailer behind the mini-putt.
Saturday, July 19 - 10:00am A Rock Walk (optional messy ending) This will be a leisurely stroll to visit one of Rockwood’s largest caves. For the adventurous
there will be the option of crawling into one of the tunnels. If you plan on participating
in the cave crawling please bring a flashlight and wear clothing that covers
your knees and elbows. Meet at the trailer behind the mini-putt.
Thursday, July 24 - 2:00pm Swamp Tromp Come and explore the water world of Rockwood. You’ll find yourself dip-netting
with a naturalist, looking for frogs, fish, and invertebrates near the Harris Mill Ruins.
Be prepared to get your feet wet! Meet at the Mill Ruins.
Saturday, July 26 - 8:00pm Campfire Stories Join us for an evening campfire. We’ll supply some marshmallows and bring one of
your mugs for some hot chocolate! Bring a camp chair if you have one. Amazing
nature stories and maybe a few strange and funny stories will be shared by firelight.
Meet at the trailer behind the mini-putt.
Saturday, August 2 - 10:00am Swamp Tromp Come and explore the water world of Rockwood. You’ll find yourself dip-netting
with a naturalist, looking for frogs, fish, and invertebrates near the Harris Mill Ruins.
Be prepared to get your feet wet! Meet at the Mill Ruins.
Saturday, August 9 - 10:00am Night Hike This evening hike will introduce you to the nighttime creatures that reside in the
Rockwood Conservation Area. Meet at the trailer behind the mini-putt.
Saturday, August 16 - 10:00am Creepy Creatures Cuddle a rat, hold a snake, wear a cockroach broach! Fun for the whole family! Meet
at the trailer behind the mini-putt.
New Rockwood Just for Kids Programs
New this year we are offering 2 new programs, just for kids 6 – 12 yrs. These programs run from 1:30 – 3:30pm. Drop off and pick up for these programs is at the Beach
Pavilion. They are well supervised by qualified staff. These programs are free, but please remember to pre-register at the park gate!
Thursday, July 31 - 1:30–3:30pm Something’s Fishy at the Join us for a look at a fish’s banquet! We’ll use dip nets to see what the fish
Rockwood Kids Club
are eating and then, we provide you with some fishing rods to do some catch and
release fishing. Meet at the Pavilion near the beach.
Thursday, August 7 - 1:30–3:30pm The Rockwood Kids Club goes Buggy Join us for an afternoon of bug hunting and buggy crafts. We may also be a visited by
a creepy crawly. Meet at the Pavilion near the beach.
BUY 1 LARGE BUCKET
OF BALLS & RECEIVE
1 SMALL BUCKET
519

10 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008
The geology of Rockwood
caused the compaction of much
of the sediment into limestone
and dolostone bedrock, however
the reef core, which was very
hard, resisted this compaction. As
the Wisconsin glacier retreated
approximately 11,000 years ago,
it cut deep gorges throughout the
area and deposited much glacial
debris. Due to the porous nature
of the reef core, glacial runoff
passed through hard reef core
and into the compacted sedimentary
rock surrounding it
(Chapman and Putnam 1966).
This runoff caused the erosion of
the compacted sediment but not
the hard reef core and is responsible
for creating a variety of
unique glacial features observed
in the Rockwood Conservation
Area (Wake 1997).
The glacial bluffs or gorges
throughout the conservation area
were created as large areas of
sediment were eroded around
sections of reef core. These
gorges range from 5 to 30 m in
depth and 7 to 200 m in width.
Erosion of these gorges has continued
since the Wisconsin glacier's
retreat and is continually
changing their shape.
Information on the Rockwood
Conservation Area provided from
Andrew Maher.
The Rockwood area has a
unique geological history. During
Silurian times, approximately
400 million years ago, a warm,
shallow inland sea covered much
of south central Ontario, and
Rockwood was located in a thriving
coral reef. Much of the
bedrock around the Rockwood
area is limestone and dolostone
that was created as sediment
accumulated around these reefs
during this time (Theberge 1989).
The greatest impact on the
Rockwood area occurred during
the most recent ice age, 11,000
to16,000 years ago, when the
Wisconsin glacier covered the
area with a kilometer of ice
(Theberge 1989). During this
time the weight of the ice mass
Potholes & caves
Potholes
An unique geomorphologic feature
that owes its creation to the
runoff of the Wisconsin glacier
are the over 200 potholes and pothole
remnants identified throughout
the conservation area (Wake
1997). These potholes vary in size
from 7m in diameter and 11 m in
depth, to less than 0.5 m in diameter
and depth. These potholes
were created by hard glacial
debris including sand, pebbles,
and granite boulders that was
deposited by the Wisconsin glacier
and were caught in eddies in
the rapid flowing melt water. This
debris acted as grinding agents
and, under the pressure of the
water flow, cut holes onto the soft
sedimentary bedrock (Chapman
and Putnam 1966).
Caves
Another unique feature created
by the runoff of the Wisconsin
glacier is the extensive network of
12 solution caves. The erosion of
sedimentary rock created the cave
system when an underground
stream flowed through the rock
(Chapman and Putnam 1966).
This cave system is one of the
most extensive systems found in
Ontario and exhibits depositional
features including stalactites,
columns, and flowstone.
Information on the Rockwood
Conservation Area provided from
Andrew Maher and his report on
Rockwood Conservation Area
available on request at the gate.
Let us help celebrate your special day!!
Your Hometown Advantage
STORE HOURS
Monday - Friday: 8am - 8pm
Saturday: 8am - 6pm
Sunday: 10am - 5pm
• Friendly Service • Quality Meat
• Fresh Produce • Deli/Grocery
• Bakery
STORE HOURS
Monday - Wednesday
9am - 7pm
Thursday - Friday
9am - 8pm
Saturday
9am - 6pm
Sunday
11am - 5pm
209 Alma Street, Rockwood, Ontario
Marden
Community Centre
Seats 100
Catering kitchen and bar
Tables and chairs
Air conditioned
Ample Parking
www.get.on.ca
r001086260
For more information contact Vicki 519-856-9951 ext 113
The Village Sweet Shop
“Old time treats - New Found Friends”
*Specializing in Handmade Fudge*
FREE Samples of Fudge - More than 15 flavours in stock!
Retro Candy - The Pop Shoppe Pop
Penny Candy - Handmade Chocolates & Truffles
Leah Youngblut Leah_Youngblut@yahoo.ca
120 Main St. S., Rockwood (519) 856-8268

Summer 2008 | Rockwood Conservation Area | 11
Gilbert MacIntyre &
Son Funeral Home &
Chapel Memorial
Trail & Family
Memorial Area
A Lasting Memorial That Helps
Our Environment
In May of 1999, the Gilbert
MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home
and Chapel, together with The
Grand River Foundation, formally
launched our Family Memorial
Area and Memorial Trail program
within the Rockwood
Conservation Area.
Through a long term agreement
with The Grand River Foundation,
the Gilbert MacIntyre Funeral
Home and Chapel will directly
contribute $50 on behalf of every
funeral conducted. Each contribution
is a Memorial Footstep along
the pathway to creation of the
Rockwood Memorial Trail.
Family Memorial Area
From the parking lot located on
the historic Harris Woolen Mill
ruins, visitors cross the rustic
bridge over the Eramosa River,
and pass the tumbling waters of
the upper mill dam.
Additional Participation
Opportunities
A contribution to the Rockwood
Memorial Trail program is made
automatically on your behalf by
the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son
Funeral Home & Chapel, for each
funeral held at either our Guelph
or Rockwood facilities.
Families, individuals and groups
may also wish to make additional
contributions, as unique tributes
and lasting memorials to departed
friends and loved ones.
Personal participants need not
be families of Gilbert MacIntyre
and Son Funeral Home and
Chapel. All donations are
acknowledged through our
Rockwood Memorial Trail program,
and are eligible for a charitable
donation receipt for income
tax purposes.
For further information on the
Gilbert MacIntyre and Son
Funeral Home and Chapel Family
Memorial Area and Rockwood
Memorial Trail program, or to
make a tax deductible donation,
contact:
Gilbert MacIntyre and Son
Funeral Home and Chapel:
Guelph Chapel
252 Dublin St.
Phone (519) 822-4731
Rockwood Chapel
117 Guelph St.,
Phone (519) 856-1100
The Grand River Conservation
Foundation:
Box 729, Cambridge N1R 5W6
Phone (519) 621-2769 x240
www.mypharmacist.ca/rockwoodpharmacy
First-aid Goods,
Games, Gifts & More!
10%
178 Alma Street
Rockwood, ON N0B 2K0
Tel: (519) 856-9486
Fax: (519) 856-2595
off for
all purchases.
With coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires Oct. 15/08
Monday to Friday
9 am - 7 pm
Saturday
9 am - 6 pm
…making every season merry & bright
Park
Brucedale Hwy 124
(Alma Rd) Hwy 7
Fall St.
Main St.
Rockwood
X
We specialize in seasonal holiday giftware
& home décor.
From sensational fragrances & festive figurines
to wreaths, candles, ornaments & much more,
come in and catch a glimpse at the latest gift
& décor ideas for every season.
Come & visit, let us know you are camping at
Rockwood Conservation Park and receive
15% off your purchase of $25 or more.
(519) 833-2555
8809 Wellington Rd 124. 1km west of Ospringe
Wed-Fri 10-5:30, Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5

12 | Rockwood Conservation Area | Summer 2008
Admission
Over 14 years of age $4.25
Child (ages 6-14) $2.50
5 years of age & under FREE
Buses (20 or more people) per person discount $0.25
Seasonal Walk-In Pass
Over 14 years of age $45.00
Child (ages 6-14) $35.00
Vehicle Season’s Pass
1st Vehicle $95.00
2nd Vehicle $65.00
Camping
Reservation Fee (non-refundable) $10.00
Rate per unit per day with one vehicle
(maximum 6 people plus admission fee)
Unserviced Site $27.00
Serviced Site $34.00
Full Serviced Site $37.50
Additional Vehicle fee (overnight) $10.00
Pavilion Rentals
Mill Ruin $600.00
Pavilion Rental $150.00
(incl. non-refundable $10 reservation fee)
Miscellaneous
Dump Station fee (non user) $10.00
Firewood $7.00/bag
Canoe/Paddle Boat rental $12.00/hour
Showers (quarters only) $0.25
Hours of Operation
Concession:
Weekends 10am - 8pm
Weekdays 10am - dusk
Boat Rentals 10am - dusk
Gatehouse/Firewood 8am - 9pm
Mini-Golf 8am - dusk
(Times subject to change)
PLEASE EXERCISE CAUTION
WHEN VISITING THE PARK!
STAY ON DESIGNATED
TRAILS AND BE CONSCIOUS
OF THE LANDSCAPE
AROUND YOU!