Throwdown Adventures

Tucked away in Haldimand County, the town of Dunnville sits along one of Ontario’s most beautiful and historic waterways: the Grand River. Recognized as a Canadian Heritage River, this stretch near Dunnville offers a unique combination of natural beauty, calm waters, and small-town charm—making it a must-visit for campers, paddlers, and nature lovers alike.

We love spending time with family and friends on the boat. The Grand River in Dunnville offers many boat launching spots depending if you’d prefer to be on the upper river, or the lower river.

Wingfield Park offers a free boat launch for those that wish to use the upper river. On the river you will see lots of different wildlife, scenery, and fun. Our favourite area of the upper river is when we reach the cows; sometimes, we are lucky enough to be on the river at the same time the cows decide to cool down and go for a swim. We aren’t totally sure what farm these cows belong to, but they enjoy the river just as much as we do!

The Dunnville Boat Club offers boat launching for the lower river with a cost of $15 each visit, or you can purchase 1 year pass for $120. The Grand River Marina and Cafe also offers boat launching for the cost of $20 each visit. They also offer Kayak/Canoe launching at a cost of $10 each visit. There are rentals at the Grand River Marina and Cafe; please contact them for the cost of this.

The lower river typically is busier as it is the access to Lake Erie. Larger boats, tubers, water skiers, etc use this stretch of the river more often than the upper river.

Just a short drive from town, Byng Island Conservation Area offers even more access to the river with boat ramps, kayak rentals, and a scenic route all the way to Lake Erie. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, the water here is welcoming and beginner-friendly.

DID YOU KNOW?! Byng Island Conservation Area has Canada’s largest outdoor pool!

But the Grand River isn’t just about paddling—it’s a haven for wildlife. Along the riverbanks and wetlands, you might spot muskrats, mink, turtles, herons, and a wide variety of waterfowl. During migration season, especially in late summer and early fall, monarch butterflies fill the skies around nearby Rock Point Provincial Park. Anglers will also find this stretch of the river to be full of opportunity, with fish like smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, perch, catfish, and even walleye in abundance.

The scenery here is nothing short of stunning. The river winds past forests, marshlands, and the remnants of historic canal systems, offering paddlers and hikers peaceful views and a true connection with nature. In the fall, the landscape transforms into a vibrant mix of golds and reds, providing a picture-perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. It’s a spot where time slows down and the modern world feels far away.

After a day on the water, downtown Dunnville welcomes you with its cozy small-town energy and a surprising number of great local spots to eat and shop. (Follow for more posts about local restaurants, and places to check out) You’ll also want to stop by Richardson’s Farm & Market or check out the Dunnville Farmers’ Market (open Tuesdays and Saturdays) for fresh produce, baked goods, and a taste of local life.

Dunnville’s Grand River is more than just a waterway—it’s an experience. Whether you’re floating through calm channels, casting a line, spotting wildlife, or enjoying a locally made meal, there’s something deeply rejuvenating about this place. It’s the kind of destination where adventure meets relaxation, and where every visit leaves you wanting just one more day by the water.