Scenic Views · Camping & Hiking · Fishing · Ontario
McGowan Falls
A cascade on the Saugeen River in the Durham Conservation Area, West Grey, Ontario, with trails, picnic spots, a swimming area and good trout fishing. Small day-use fee.
What visitors say
McGowan Falls is a broad cascade where the Saugeen River runs over rock in the Durham Conservation Area, named for an early miller who used its water power. Reviewers describe the sound of the water as calming, with plenty of rocks to sit on and a small bridge nearby.
The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority runs the property, and a small day-use fee applies; a couple of reviewers had to phone in to pay. The parking lot handles large vehicles, including one visitor's 28-foot RV. There are nearly four kilometres of trails along the river, both formal and informal.
There's plenty for a full day: picnic areas, a roped-off swimming area, a playground and rustic washrooms, and a large campground on the property. The falls are popular with anglers, and the Saugeen holds trout, bass and pike under Ontario's regulations. Paddlers use the river too.
Watch for strong currents near the falls and heed the warning signs. It's quiet in the shoulder seasons but likely busier in summer.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 551 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.