AREA HISTORY

The first Newfoundland Census, conducted in 1836, is the earliest documented evidence of the community of Frenchman's Cove. Though it was settled prior to this time, the date of settlement is not known. Local folklore and tradition hold that some of the first settlers were Cleuetts of French origin. The small-boat inshore fishery has been the economic mainstay of the area. Not until the later part of the nineteenth century did men join crews of the Bank fishery schooners, operated from Grand Bank.

Residents also practiced agriculture, mostly for subsistence and feed for livestock. The main crops raised were turnips, cabbages, potatoes, and hay. Livestock included horses, cattle, sheep, and chickens.

NATURAL HISTORY

Situated adjacent a large barachois, sand and mud flats, mixed forest, and tidal lagoons, it is no wonder that Frenchman's Cove Provincial Park offers bird watchers tremendous and splendid opportunities to observe a diverse population of shore birds and waterfowl. The visitor can expect to see the lesser yellow-legs, red knots, dunlins, and sand pipers. Canada Geese, black ducks, green winged teals, and ring-necked ducks can be seen also. Usual seabirds sighted are thick-billed murres, dovekies, northern gannets, Leach's storm petrels, common terns, and ring-billed gulls.

For the enthusiastic geologist Frenchman's Cove offers many rock types to be admired. For those more interested, Fortune Head Ecological Reserve is only a short drive south along route 213.

PARK ACTIVITIES

CAMPING

Frenchman's Cove Provincial Park has 76 campsites, each with a picnic table, fireplace, a garbage can, and a parking space for your vehicle. Many sites are suitable for recreational vehicles. Drinking water taps, pit toilets, and wood supplies are conveniently located throughout the park.

DAY USE

The picnic or day use area, located near the beach and swimming zone (refer to map), is equipped with picnic tables, garbage cans, drinking water taps, pit toilets, and change houses.

PLAYGROUND

A playground outfitted with swings, seesaws, and a sand box is within close proximity to the campground.

SWIMMING

A swimming section has been roped off in the day use area for your safety. Caution: The swimming zone is unsupervised. There is water safety equipment readily available if needed.

GOLF

A large section of the park has been leased to Grand Meadows Golf Association who has established a professionally designed 9 hole course measuring 3,001 yards. Bring your clubs and see if you can make the par 36.

CONCESSIONS

Fully equipped cabins, boat rentals and more are available for your convenience.

PLACES TO SEE AND EXPLORE CLOSE BY

Use this Provincial Park as your home while you explore the Heritage Run. Visit the Seaman's Museum at Grand Bank, take a short boat trip to St. Pierre or simply enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.