There are so many great activities to enjoy in the Saint John region throughout the summer months. Rockwood Park is one of my favourite places to visit in Saint John throughout the year. This place has been a popular destination for Saint John locals and tourists for over 100 years. Lily Lake is just one of the many gems that you can explore inside the Park’s 2000+ acres. Located near the entrance of the park, it’s easy to access, with parking lots and tons of summer activities for a family outing, a romantic date, or a fun day with friends. This guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Post updated July 2025
Note: Taken from the City of Saint John website; “Two all-terrain wheelchairs are available at Rockwood Park and designed for off-road capabilities to tackle uneven ground, gravel and the outdoor elements. The chairs are available to reserve for free from May – October using the online reservation portal.” (This link takes you to more information, a link to All-terrain Wheelchair Recommended Trails & book the all-terrain wheelchairs.
My favourite things to do around Lily Lake at Rockwood Park, in Saint John, NB
Listed by category, scroll down for photos and links, and keep reading to learn about these great things to do at Lily Lake.
Delicious Dining and Picnic Spots
- Picnic at Lily Lake
- Dining at Lily Lake Restaurant’s Lakeside Patio
Exciting Outdoor Activities & Adventures
- Boating and Paddling Adventures with the Inside Out Nature Centre
- Swimming and Fishing Fun
- Give Rock Climbing a Go
Walks, Exploring, and Learning About Nature
- Ducks & Turtles at the Interpretation Centre
- Scenic Walks Around the Lake
- Explore the Stonehammer Geopark sites & The Arboretum
If you know of other fun things to do around Lily Lake that are not mentioned, let me know!
Use & share my list of fun summer things to do at Lily Lake in Rockwood Park, Saint John, NB
What are some ideas for having a meal at Lily Lake?
Picnic at Lily Lake
I love a good picnic. There is something about sitting outside and relaxing by the water that makes food taste better!
Here, all you need is something to eat and drink, a bonus if you remember to bring a blanket! I typically bring pizza, sushi, or some other kind of takeout on my impromptu picnics. Of course, packing a homemade sandwich or picking something up from the Lily Lake Pavilion Restaurant are both delicious options too! There are so many perfect picnic spots around the lake. You can bring a blanket and find a cozy spot on the grass, or use one of the covered picnic tables located near the Duck Pond by the Interpretive Center. It’s lovely for a relaxed family meal, a romantic lunch, or a casual hangout with friends.
Picnic location options;
- Blanket anywhere by the lake
- Covered picnic tables by the Interpretation Centre pond (Note: there are 2 wheelchair friendly picnic tables in summer 2024)
- Park benches are found around the lake
Dining at Lily Lake Restaurant’s Lakeside Patio
The lakeside patio at Lily’s Lakeside Casual Dining is delightful for a more relaxed outing. On sunny days, it’s nice to sit and look over the water and feel the breeze. It’s a great spot for a romantic meal or a leisurely lunch with friends. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is pure summer vibes.
What are some fun outdoor activities and adventures to do at Lily Lake?
Boating and Paddling Adventures with the Inside Out Nature Centre
Last year, my husband and I went on a pedal boat date around Lily Lake. The Inside Out Nature Center rents out paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. It’s a fantastic way to see and enjoy the lake from a different perspective, whether you’re with family, a partner, or friends.
Swimming and Fishing Fun
During the summer, the City of Saint John has active lifeguards at the small sandy beach beside the Lily Lake Pavilion. Many families bring lunch to eat at the picnic tables and spend the afternoon there.
Many people also come to try their luck fishing at different spots on the lake. Remember to bring your fishing license and gear if you plan to fish.
Give Rock Climbing a Go
There is some interesting geology around Lily Lake. The rock wall across from the duck pond is a volcanic wall (Stonehammer Geopark site) that was formed 554 million years ago! A few years ago, I geared up with the Inside Out Nature Centre and tried climbing it. I didn’t make it far (I’m scared of heights), but it was a fun time!
I love exploring nature. What can I do and learn about at Lily Lake?
Ducks & Turtles at the Interpretation Centre
My kid loves to watch the ducks swim around the pond outside the Interpretation Centre. Inside the centre, you can visit three red-eared slider turtles: Shelly, May, and Ruby. These turtles are not native to the local area and have called the Centre home since they were found left in the park. It’s a cute, fun experience that’s perfect for families and couples.
Note: Just remember not to feed the ducks!
Bathrooms can be found inside the centre.
Scenic Walks Around the Lake
Walking around Lily Lake is another favourite activity of ours. The path around the lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with gentle hills and plenty of benches to rest on. It’s great for a family walk, a romantic stroll, or catching up with friends. I love exploring the different spots and just enjoying the scenery. There are a few side paths that, if you follow them, will take you to some cool views of Lily Lake or a small stream surrounded by mossy rocks.
Explore the Stonehammer Geopark sites & The Arboretum
The Rockwood Park Arboretum highlights many trees and nature details and shows how to identify the different plants that make up the Acadian forest. The Arboretum map can be found across from the Interpretive Centre on the trail that goes around Lily Lake.
If you follow a path up to number 19 on the Arboretum map, you’ll find a Stonehammer Geopark collection of local boulders from different time periods. They have a rock from the Precambrian (Greenfeed Group) that is 980 million years old! There are a few different trails that will take you there, including Cliff Trail.
Lily Lake in Rockwood Park offers something for everyone. From peaceful picnics and duck watching to adventurous paddling and rock climbing, there’s so much to enjoy. Plan your visit and make some unforgettable memories!
My two experiences with the Inside Out Centre a few years ago were complementary. Based on my experience, all opinions are completely my own.
Want to learn more about the things mentioned above? Check out these links below:
Link to Rockwood Park Trail maps
Link to Rockwood Park Facebook
Link to Rockwood Park Interpretation Centre
Link to Lily Lake Pavilion Restaurant Facebook Page
Link to Lily Lake Pavilion Restaurant Website
Link to Stonehammer Geopark
Link to Inside Out Nature Centre
Link to Backyard History article about Rockpark’s history
Link to City of Saint John Website Swimming Page
