Earl Rowe Provincial Park is located in the scenic river valley of the Boyne River. The fertile lands and forest that make up the park were left behind thousands of years ago by glacial Lake Algonquin. The Boyne River, which winds it’s way through the park on its way to Georgian bay is also a remnant of this ancient lake. The original park, a four hectare picnic area was bequeathed to the province in 1957 by the Honourable Earl Rowe, former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. Over the years the park has expanded to 312 hectares. The park was used by the Huron Indians as important hunting and fishing grounds. William Fletcher, founder of the town of Alliston settled in the area in the early 1800’s. If you visit the South Simcoe Museum in Alliston you can see the two large grinding stones that Mr. Fletcher used in his mill along the Boyne River. The mill was pivitol in the development of the tiny community of Meadowbrook. The Meadowbrook Elementary School, served the community from 1875 – 1966 and still stands on the west side of the park. The park boasts two beaches and a swimming pool, as well as several excellent hiking trails that highlight the natural features and cultural history of the area.
