With hundreds of parks in Ontario, it’s easy to overlook one that’s right next door.
But you don’t need to drive far for great camping options!
Here are five reasons you should consider Earl Rowe Provincial Park when you’re planning your next (or your first!) camping adventure.
1. We’re just a short drive away!
Earl Rowe is located on Toronto’s doorstep, just 85 km northwest.
With large, private campsites and plenty to do, Earl Rowe is a great choice for a quick getaway into nature.
If you’re bringing young children or are testing out new camping gear, Earl Rowe is the perfect option! The town of Alliston is nearby in case you’ve forgotten an important item.
You can find campsite photos and pricing on our reservations website.
2. Endless hiking opportunities
Earl Rowe has a fantastic system of trails, with options for short jaunts and longer half-day treks.
Much of the trail system is multi-use and connects to the park store, Resource Centre, the fish ladder, or to your favourite fishing spot.
If 11 km of in-park trails aren’t enough for you, Earl Rowe is the perfect place to set up a base camp to explore the surrounding area. Forks of the Credit and Mono Cliffs provincial parks are located nearby.
There are also many other parks and trails nearby, including access points for the Bruce Trail.
3. Don’t miss the fish!
Every year, visitors come to Earl Rowe to witness salmon and Rainbow Trout migrating up the Boyne River to spawn.
Trout and salmon return to the river in which they were born to give the next generation the best start in life. The land and waters that are now within Earl Rowe have seen countless generations born, depart for a life in the Great Lakes, and make their eventual return.
The fish ladder enables fish to bypass the park’s dam and complete their journey.
Trout spawn in early spring, usually in March or April, while salmon spawning season is in the fall. Both migrations are highly dependent on temperature.
Keep an eye on the park’s social media pages for migration updates: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
4. Education and workshops
Whether you’re new to camping, want to try your hand at fishing for the first time, or would like a guide to help your children discover the natural world, Earl Rowe has something for you!
Discovery Programs: Our staff love to share the stories of Earl Rowe and the wildlife that call the park home. These drop-in sessions are perfect for families with young children. Program schedules are posted throughout the park.
Learn to Camp: Our Park Ambassadors are here to help you level up your camping skills. Book a 30-minute workshop right at your campsite or join a group session. You can choose the camping skill you would like to learn.
Learn to Fish: We provide gear, a one-day fishing license, and knowledgeable instructors. Just show up to a free session, and we’ll take care of the rest! Learn to cast, use the equipment, and identify the fish in our park.
Already know how to fish and just need a rod and tackle? Head to the Resource Centre to borrow equipment at no charge.
All sessions and workshops are offered in July and August, and are included with your campsite or daily vehicle permit fee.
5. Escape to the outdoors year-round
Earl Rowe is open for camping from mid-May until mid-October, but the park is open year-round for day use.
Pack your hiking boots, cross-country skis, and/or your snowshoes, depending on the conditions!
Once the temperature drops, check our Snow Report for current snow depth.
Go to Earl Rowe!
Earl Rowe has lovely trails, perfect picnic spots, lakeside views, and campgrounds with everything you need.
Choose from large electrical and non-electrical campsites, with nearby amenities like comfort stations with washrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Don’t miss the canoe and paddleboat rentals!
Make sure to check out our Alerts page, and social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook) for up-to-date information on park operations.