A Little Park History

Denny’s Dam Park is approximately 24 ha (64 acres) in size. It has been a site of past archaeological digs and research and is considered a National Historical Site. In 1996, The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority announced that Denny’s Dam Park would be closed to the public due to financial constraints. The possibility existed that the Park may even be sold. The Ontario Steelheaders approached the Authority with an offer to lease and maintain the Park to ensure continuing access for all users. The Authority agreed and the Ontario Steelheaders have operated and maintained the park since then.

Saugeen River Access from Denny's Dam Park
The Park has direct access to the Saugeen River

Each year, Denny’s Dam Park on the Saugeen River operates from April 1 to November 30, river conditions and weather permitting.

Campground & River Access

Denny’s Dam Park is located in Saugeen Shores, Ontario on the Saugeen River near Southampton and Port Elgin. The park provides all types of outdoor enthusiasts such as fisherman, hikers and paddlers with small boats, access to the Saugeen River. Fish for steelhead rainbow trout, salmon, brown trout, smallmouth bass, muskie, catfish, walleye, and more. Park your vehicle in a safe and friendly environment while enjoying the area with access to park facilities such as picnic tables and washrooms. Stay for the day or pitch a tent for couple of days and experience the Saugeen River and its beauty.

The park is open for overnight camping from April 1st to park closing on November 30th (or sooner depending on weather). Camping reservations are not available at Denny’s Dam Park. While camping spots are limited to 6, we make every effort to accommodate those who wish to camp at the Park. The parking lot is flat and can accommodate up to 10 trailers or RVs. You are encouraged to call the park manager (Dave (226) 218-6889) for more information one week before your intended stay. Seasonal space is limited and subject to a waiting list.

Note: Fishing above the south side of old bridge abutments is prohibited by the Ministry of Natural Resources (steelhead rainbow trout/salmon) fishing regulations during the winter months from January 1 to the last Saturday in April. Additionally, night fishing above the south side of the bridge abutments up to the dam is closed for the entire month of October for salmon spawning.

Fees

Overnight camping is permitted and available on a first come, first served basis. A section of the park is reserved for temporary (short term) camping.

A Daily Camping Pass (Tent) = $10.00/day (includes 1 day parking pass with overnight privileges)

A Daily Camping Pass (Trailer) = $10.00/day (includes 1 day parking pass with overnight privileges)

* You must bring your own power and water sources when camping at the park.
* Washroom facilities are available for all park guests.

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We offer safe, secure parking available for vehicles on a daily basis and accommodate portage for small watercraft such as drift boats, rafts, kayaks or canoes (portage only; under 16ft). Daily parking does not include overnight privileges.

  • 1 Day Parking Pass = $2.00/Day
  • 1 Year Parking Pass = $25.00/Year
* Please deposit parking fees in pay box located in parking lot. Visit park office to acquire a yearly pass.

Finding the Park

Access to the Denny’s Dam Park is located minutes off of Hwy. 21 just North of Southampton, Ontario.

GPS Coordinates

Latitude: 44°30'19.0"N
Longitude: 81°20'06.0"W

Google Map

For additional information please visit the Denny’s Dam page at the Saugeen Conservation website.

Contact the Ontario Steelheaders at:
Ontario Steelheaders 
P.O. Box 604 Stn. Main 
Brantford, Ontario N3T 5P9 
Park Manager: Dave Munro 226-218-6889

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