Chemainus River Provincial Park
About This Park
The park addition is located on the Chemainus River, approximately 3 km northwest of Duncan on southern Vancouver Island.
Please note: This park is cooperatively managed by the Cowichan Valley Regional District. Services and facilities may differ from those offered in other BC Parks.
Park Size: 119 hectares
Stay Safe:
- Please note: there are no campfires allowed in this park at any time.
Nature and Culture
- History - Chemainus River Provincial Park was established on December 30, 1959.
- Cultural Heritage - Chemainus River Park lies within the traditional territories of the Nanaimo First Nation, the Chemainus First Nation, the Cowichan Indian Band and the Cowichan Tribes. Traditional uses include fishing, berry picking and bark stripping. The remnants of an old railway grade in the park is also of historic importance.
- Conservation - Surrounded by a buffer of mature, second-growth forest, Chemainus River Park is home to Roosevelt elk, who use the river as a corridor, and black bears, cougars and wolves, who forage along the riverbanks. The river is home to coho salmon and steelhead. Found in the river above Copper Canyon, the steelhead are a sping “race” with a summer run. Since all steelhead are stopped at the canyon, the deep pools of the upper river are ideally suited to the production of steelhead. The river also has numerous sensitive ecosystems related to the floodplain and riparian vegetation.
- General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information
Activities Available at this Park
Canoeing
There are opportunities for canoeing and river kayaking in this park. No facilities are provided.
Cycling
Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing
Chemainus River Provincial Park is a popular destination for anglers. The river is home to spring and summer runs of steelhead, as well as a variety of freshwater species.
All anglers should check the current regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada prior to fishing. Anyone fishing in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Hiking
There are no developed trails at this park; however, there are several
routes that follow the river and lead to various swimming holes.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is permitted in this park.
Pets on Leash
Pets/domestic animals must be on a leash and under control all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
Swimming
There is no designated swimming area at this park, although a number
of calm swimming holes and deep pools provide good opportunities for
swimming. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
