If you’re looking for a proper waterfront escape that still feels local, Meaford Memorial Park delivers. Sitting right on Georgian Bay with 468 metres of shoreline, this municipal park and campground offers a beach, full-service camping, a designated dog beach, playgrounds, and mini-golf — without the big-resort atmosphere.
Meaford Memorial Park is one of Ontario’s quieter waterfront spots and a genuine local favourite, especially for families and dog owners who want something more practical than the busier tourist beaches. Here’s everything you need to know for 2026.
Location, Hours & Getting There
Address: 181 Grant Avenue, Meaford, ON
Meaford Memorial Park sits on the south shore of Georgian Bay, just a short drive from downtown Meaford. It’s an easy day trip from Collingwood, Blue Mountain, or the Owen Sound area, and pairs well with a stop in nearby Owen Sound if you’re exploring the region.
Season: Mid-May until Thanksgiving weekend (campground). Day-use beach access follows the same general window, though parking rules apply from May 1.
Office hours during the season are typically Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and weekends 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (confirm closer to your visit, as they can shift).
The Beach & Swimming at Meaford Memorial Park
The beach at Meaford Memorial Park is a mix of sand and small pebbles that becomes sandier a short distance from shore. The water is usually clear, with a gradual entry that works well for kids and casual swimming. You’ll get solid views across the bay, and on calm days it’s a pleasant place to spend a few hours.
It’s not a long, wide sandy stretch like some of the bigger Ontario beaches, but it’s clean, well-used by locals, and far less crowded than the more famous spots. For a broader look at Ontario’s best beaches this year, check our Best Beaches in Ontario 2026 guide.
Dog Beach & Off-Leash Rules
Meaford is one of the more dog-friendly towns on this stretch of Georgian Bay, and Meaford Memorial Park is a big reason why.
There’s a designated off-leash dog beach section at the far end of the main beach. During the camping season, dogs must stay on leash everywhere else in the park except that designated area.
Seasonal off-leash expansion (current rules): From November 1 to April 15, dogs can be off-leash in the upper campground area and the designated water/dog beach portion of Meaford Memorial Park. Outside those dates and areas, keep them leashed.
Just outside the park entrance you’ll also find Beautiful Joe’s Leash-Free Dog Park, which is open year-round with separate sections for small and large dogs.
Camping at Meaford Memorial Park (2026 Rates & Booking)
This is one of the few true waterfront municipal campgrounds on Georgian Bay. Meaford Memorial Park has waterfront sites (only 18 of them) and a larger number of upper/forest sites.
Current rates (include 2 adults + up to 4 children):
| Site Type | Prime Season | Non-Prime Season |
|---|---|---|
| Waterfront | $79 | $67 |
| Off-Water & Premium Upper | $72 | $61 |
| Full Service | $65 | $56 |
| Upper Level (water/hydro only) | $58 | $53 |
Additional fees: $8 booking fee, firewood $10/bundle, ice $4.
Prime season runs from the last full weekend of June to the Tuesday after Labour Day, plus Victoria Day and Thanksgiving weekends.
Reservations for Meaford Memorial Park are handled through Camplife. Waterfront sites (1–18) open to the public on January 1 at 9:00 a.m. for that calendar year. Minimum stays apply during prime time (especially on the waterfront sites). Full payment is required at booking. Cancellations 14+ days out receive a refund minus an administration fee; less than 14 days are generally non-refundable.
Sites can feel a bit close together in the peak summer weeks — this is a municipal campground, not a private resort — but the location on the water makes up for it for most people.
Amenities & Things to Do for Families
Beyond the beach and camping, Meaford Memorial Park offers:
- Two playground areas
- 18-hole mini-golf ($6 per round, includes putter) — open to both campers and day visitors
- Horseshoe pits (bring your own equipment)
- Picnic tables and pavilion shelters (rentals available: half-day $89 / full-day $150)
- Public washrooms and showers
- Short woodland walking trails
It’s a solid, low-cost option for families looking for a simple day out. For more free and inexpensive ideas across the province, see our guide to free things to do with kids in Ontario.
Parking Rules at Meaford Memorial Park
This is the part that catches a lot of first-time visitors to Meaford Memorial Park.
Non-residents: Paid parking is in effect May 1 – October 31, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week. Cost is $10 per day or $100 for a season pass (plus small user fees). Pay via the HONK app or the QR codes in the park.
Residents: Free parking with annual vehicle registration. You can register online or in person at the Municipal Office or Memorial Park Office (bring proof of residency and vehicle ownership). Registration is required every season.
Campers get one vehicle included with their site. A second vehicle requires an extra tag.
Practical Tips & Honest Local Take
Best for: Families, dog owners, people who want waterfront camping without driving hours north, and day-trippers who don’t mind paying for parking.
Less ideal for: Anyone expecting a long, wide sandy beach or lots of privacy between campsites in July and August.
A few practical notes about Meaford Memorial Park:
- Arrive early on summer weekends if you’re coming for the day — the parking lot fills.
- Bring your own horseshoe equipment and any speciality beach gear.
- The park sits next to private residences — stay inside the park boundaries.
- Combine a visit with time in Meaford itself or a short drive to Owen Sound for more things to do in the area .
If you’re building a longer Georgian Bay or Bruce Peninsula itinerary, Meaford Memorial Park works well as a lower-key stop before or after busier spots.
FAQ
Is Meaford Memorial Park free to enter?
Day use is free, but non-residents must pay for parking between May 1 and October 31 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.).
Are dogs allowed off-leash at Meaford Memorial Park?
Yes, in the designated dog beach area. From November 1 to April 15, off-leash access expands to the upper campground area as well.
How much does camping cost at Meaford Memorial Park in 2026?
Waterfront sites start at $79/night in prime season and $67 in non-prime. Other site types range from $53–$72 depending on season and services. See the full rate table above.
Is there a playground and mini-golf at Meaford Memorial Park?
Yes, two playgrounds and an 18-hole mini-golf course ($6 per round).
When does Meaford Memorial Park campground open and close?
Typically mid-May until Thanksgiving weekend.