Harrison Park is an urban dream, with more than 40 hectares of streams, trails, gardens, playgrounds, forest, and green space in the heart of Owen Sound. Often called our "jewel in the crown," the park features dining and recreation facilities, a full-service campground including a cabin rental, boat rentals, a mini-putt, basketball courts, a pool (details below), and an open-air rink. Entry to Harrison Park is free and free parking is also available.
Its network of trails connects directly with the Bruce Trail, the longest footpath in Canada, which will take you to Inglis Falls, just south of the city, or the Centennial Tower, one of the highest points in Owen Sound. There is a small waterfall, Weavers' Creek Falls, accessible from within the park. The waterfall is on private lands but can be viewed from the boardwalk on public lands.
When Harrison Park was turned over to the city a century ago by the family of founder John Harrison it was deemed one of the most beautiful parks in Ontario. Today, it remains one of the area's greatest attractions, retaining the natural beauty and rustic charm that have drawn generations of people to its gates.
Cool off with an ice cream cone at the Harrison Park Inn restaurant, open year-round and licensed. Catch the action in the spring and fall when the trout and salmon swim upstream to spawn.
Check out the Black History Cairn, an intriguing monument to the city's first black settlers, escaped slaves who followed the Underground Railroad to its most northerly terminus, here in Owen Sound. An Emancipation Festival is held in the park every August.
Paddle the Sydenham River in a paddle boat or canoe from the Putt 'n Paddle kiosk, open daily during the summer. Mini golf is also available there.
Lace up your skates in the winter, when the Good Cheer open-air rink is in operation. Just remember the "HOSE" rule - Hockey on Odd-numbered days, Skating on Even-numbered days.
Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and snowmobiling are other favourite park activities in winter. The area is most delightful during the annual Festival of Northern Lights, when colourful displays light up the park from dusk onward.
View the city's Harrison Park video to learn more about this free, four-season attraction. Download the Harrison Park Brochure for park maps.
Psst....the Harrison Park Master Plan 2023 update is open for public consultation - click to learn more and provide your feedback on the future of Harrison Park.
Harrison Park Pool, 75 2nd Avenue East |
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Nestled under the trees near Weavers' Creek in Harrison Park, Owen Sound's only outdoor heated public pool is open in June, July, and August. It is fully staffed with professional lifeguards and operated by the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce. An open swim pass may be purchased at the Harrison Park Pool. Information on where to purchase a seasonal pass will be posted here soon. Open swim: $7.00 + HST per person or $21 + HST per family* Private pool rentals: $98 for up to 25 swimmers, $126 for 26-50 swimmers, or $154 for 51-100 swimmers (plus HST). Call the YMCA at 519-376-0484 ext. 226 or email marilyne.jones@osgb.ymca.ca to book your private rental. Public Swim Schedule
*There will be no evening swim on July 1 (Canada Day) and August 1 (Civic Holiday) · Pool use is on a first come first serve basis. · All users are expected to practice hand hygiene before and after using the facility. Please Note: This facility may be closed or its use limited at any time because of inclement weather. Free Summer swims are offered on Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. thanks to the generosity of our Major Sponsor, Miller Waste Systems.
Free Summer swims are offered on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. thanks to the generosity of our Community Sponsors.
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