The SJHA was formed by a group of prominent citizens to ensure that local residents would always have flowers, trees, and a wilderness area to enjoy in the rapidly growing city. In May of 1893, the NB Legislature passed an Act tasking the Association with acquiring properties surrounding Lily Lake to create a public garden and a large park with recreational attractions and wilderness. Today, the Public Garden and Rockwood Park encompass 890 hectares (2200 acres) and continue to enhance the health and happiness of people living in and visiting Saint John.

One of Canada’s largest municipal parks, Rockwood Park offers a campground, hiking trails, wilderness lakes, swimming beaches, a children’s playground, an 18-hole golf course, and all levels of mountain bike trails from novice to expert. There’s a divided dog park for your large and small furry friends, as well as rental boats from canoes and kayaks to water bikes at Lily Lake Pavilion’s Inside Out Nature Centre. From berry picking along forest trails to dining overlooking the water at Lily’s Lakeside Café, Rockwood Park truly has something for everyone!

The Rockwood Park Campground is conveniently located in the heart of Saint John within easy driving or walking distance of local services and entertainment. Just minutes away from the highway, it’s also a perfect start and end point for day trips. Less than an hour drive to the south is the tourist town of St. Andrews-by-the-sea, while a 45-minute drive east takes you to the sea caves at St. Martins and the entrance to the Fundy Trail Parkway. Make Rockwood Park Campground your gateway to fun!