
Rockwood Park Saint John
A sprawling urban oasis with diverse trails, serene lakes, and year-round activities for nature lovers and families.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for boating & swimming

Rockwood Park Saint John
Best Time
Ideal for boating & swimming

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban oasis with diverse trails, serene lakes, and year-round activities for nature lovers and families.
"Rockwood Park is an absolute gem in Saint John! This sprawling park offers a perfect escape into nature."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring Rockwood Park's diverse terrain. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; many scenic spots are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lakeside Serenity
Long Lake
Discover tranquil waters dotted with yellow water lilies, offering a peaceful escape and stunning photo opportunities.

Extensive Trail Network
Throughout the park
Explore diverse hiking and biking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes, winding through lush forests.

Seasonal Aquatic Fun
Various lakes
Enjoy swimming, boating, and paddle boat rentals during warmer months, or ice skating on frozen lakes in winter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors Year-Round
Plan for a Full Day of Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring Rockwood Park's diverse terrain. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; many scenic spots are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. :sandwich:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your furry friends along! Rockwood Park welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a walk with your pet. :dog:
🛶 Rent a Canoe or Paddle Boat
Experience the lakes up close by renting a canoe or paddle boat for a fun afternoon on the water. :canoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring Rockwood Park's diverse terrain. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; many scenic spots are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. :sandwich:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your furry friends along! Rockwood Park welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a walk with your pet. :dog:
🛶 Rent a Canoe or Paddle Boat
Experience the lakes up close by renting a canoe or paddle boat for a fun afternoon on the water. :canoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't forget your camera! The park offers beautiful views, especially the lily-covered lakes and forest trails. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rockwood Park is widely praised as a beautiful natural gem in Saint John, offering a wide array of activities for all ages and seasons, from hiking and boating to winter skating. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails, serene lakes, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. While generally well-kept, some minor maintenance and litter concerns have been noted by a few reviewers.
"Rockwood Park is an absolute gem in Saint John! This sprawling park offers a perfect escape into nature, featuring beautiful walking trails, serene lakes, and stunning views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike, a family picnic, or just a place to unwind, this park has something for everyone.
The trails are well-maintained and vary in difficulty, making them accessible for all ages and fitness levels. The scenery is breathtaking, and it's easy to forget you're in the city while surrounded by the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.
One of the highlights is the variety of recreational activities available. From biking and hiking to playgrounds for the kids, there's no shortage of things to do. The park is also dog-friendly, which is a bonus for pet owners looking to enjoy some time outdoors with their furry friends.
While the park is generally well-kept, I did notice some areas that could use a bit more attention in terms of maintenance and litter pickup. However, this doesn't take away from the overall experience.
In summary, Rockwood Park is a fantastic destination for both locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect spot to connect with nature and enjoy some outdoor fun. Highly recommend checking it out!"
Lord Stanley (Lifepilot)
"A stunning park located in the center of St. John. There are several activities nearby, including swimming, riding, hiking, and renting canoes and paddle boats. There's also an on-site restaurant and massage parlor. Excellent campground with unlimited stays and full hookups. Usually begins operations in April and ends in early October. Extremely secure, with chain link fencing enclosed around the entire property."
Jaison Peter
"This place is amazing.  Something here for everyone.  We were here in 2016, and we are amazed at the improvements that are going on.
Lots to do here,  swimming,  biking, hiking  trails,  canoe rentals,  paddle boat rentals, etc. Also,  a restaurant and massage place on site.
Great campground with full hookups, no stay limit.  Normally opens in April and closes early October. Very safe,  with enclosed chain link fencing around the perimeter of the grounds.
Plan on spending an entire day here.  Lots to do and see."
Kenneth Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rockwood Park is conveniently located within Saint John. Driving is the easiest way, with ample parking available. Public transit options may also be available; check local Saint John Transit schedules for routes serving the park area. :bus:
Yes, Rockwood Park is very accessible by car. It's situated close to the city center, and there are several entrances and parking lots throughout the park, making it easy to find a spot. :car:
While there might not be dedicated bike paths directly to every entrance, Saint John has been working on expanding its cycling infrastructure. Many locals bike to the park, utilizing city streets and connecting routes. :cyclist:
Absolutely. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft operate in Saint John and can easily take you to Rockwood Park. Just specify your desired entrance or a landmark within the park. :taxi:
The park has a network of marked trails and roads. Pick up a park map at an information kiosk if available, or use a GPS app on your phone to guide you to specific points of interest. :map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rockwood Park is a public park and generally offers free admission for entry and most activities. There may be fees for specific rentals like canoes or paddle boats. :moneywithwings:
Rockwood Park is typically open year-round from dawn until dusk. However, specific facilities like the campground or seasonal attractions may have their own operating hours. It's best to check the official Saint John Parks website for the most up-to-date information. :clock1:
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general access to Rockwood Park. It's a public space. Reservations might be needed for group events or specific facility rentals. :ticket:
Rockwood Park sometimes hosts community events, especially during summer and winter. Keep an eye on local event listings or the city's parks and recreation department for announcements. Some locals enjoy informal group meetups for hiking or biking. :calendar:
Rockwood Park is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome, but it's important to keep them on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. :dog2:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Rockwood Park boasts a variety of trails. For scenic lake views, try the paths around Long Lake. For a more challenging hike with potential cliff views, explore some of the less-trafficked routes. Many trails are interconnected, allowing for custom routes. :hiking_boot:
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas of the lakes during the summer months. Always check for any posted advisories regarding water quality or safety. :swimmer:
Absolutely! You can rent canoes and paddle boats on the lakes. Fishing is also popular, so bring your gear if you enjoy casting a line. Remember to check local regulations for fishing licenses. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Rockwood Park features several playgrounds suitable for different age groups, offering a fun space for kids to play while adults enjoy the surrounding nature. :child:
Yes, Rockwood Park has a campground with full hookups, offering unlimited stays. It typically operates from April to early October and is known for being very secure with perimeter fencing. :tent:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an on-site restaurant within Rockwood Park, offering convenient dining options for visitors. You can also find many picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food. :forkandknifewithplate:
The on-site restaurant typically serves a range of casual dining options. It's a good spot to grab a meal or a snack without leaving the park. :hamburger:
Rockwood Park is equipped with numerous picnic tables scattered throughout the park, providing perfect spots for outdoor meals and gatherings. :picnic_table:
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. There are many beautiful spots to set up and enjoy your meal. :apple:
Besides the main restaurant, there might be smaller snack concessions available seasonally, particularly near popular activity areas like the boat rentals. It's always a good idea to check current offerings. :ice_cream:
📸 📸 Photography
The lily-covered Long Lake is a standout for photography, especially the small bridge offering unique perspectives. The diverse trails also provide opportunities for capturing forest scenes and wildlife. :camera:
Yes, Rockwood Park is a great place to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, squirrels, and other small creatures, particularly near the lakes and wooded areas. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best. :bird:
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. However, the dappled light filtering through the trees can also create magical shots at midday. :sunriseovermountains:
While not always marked, many of the higher points along the trails offer lovely panoramic views of the park and its lakes. The bridge over Long Lake is a particularly iconic photo spot. :mountain_view:
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. It's crucial to check the latest city bylaws and regulations regarding drone operation in Rockwood Park before flying. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Adventurers
🐶 Pet Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Rockwood Park's Trails
When planning your trail adventure, consider the season. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn transforms the park into a riot of color, making it ideal for scenic photography. Winter brings a different kind of beauty, with snow-covered trails perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, and some lakes freeze over for ice skating. Always wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain.
For those seeking specific challenges or unique views, exploring beyond the main paths can be rewarding. Keep an eye out for smaller, less-maintained trails that might lead to secluded spots or elevated viewpoints. Remember to stay on marked trails where possible to protect the park's delicate ecosystem and ensure your own safety.
Seasonal Activities and Campground Life
As the weather cools, the park transforms. Autumn brings stunning fall foliage, making it a prime location for scenic walks and photography. When winter arrives, Rockwood Park offers a magical experience with ice skating on its frozen lakes. This is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, creating a festive atmosphere.
For those who wish to extend their stay, Rockwood Park features an excellent campground. This campground offers full hookups and, notably, has no stay limit, making it ideal for longer visits. It typically opens in April and closes in early October. The entire campground is enclosed by chain-link fencing, ensuring a high level of security for all campers.
Connecting with Nature and Community
Beyond its natural beauty, the park fosters a sense of community. It's a popular spot for family picnics, dog walks, and casual meetups. Some travelers have expressed interest in 'come if you please' group meetups for hiking or biking, highlighting a desire for shared outdoor experiences. This community spirit, combined with the park's accessibility and diverse offerings, makes Rockwood Park a cherished destination for connecting with both nature and people.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit