A campfire ban is currently in effect for this park. For more information about campfire bans and about provincial parks with park closures and campfire bans in effect, visit the BC Parks campfire ban webpage.
Park Info
Main Lake Provincial Park on Quadra Island encompasses six lakes and protects a biologically diverse freshwater system that includes more than 72 bird species and 234 plant species. The park, which was established in 1997, offers significant wilderness recreation opportunities, including wilderness camping, canoeing, kayaking and hiking. Visitors to the park can see a variety of wildlife, including wolves, cougars, owls, Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, Peregrine falcons and wintering swans. The geography of park is exceptional, with spectacular physical features such as narrow channels, limestone sinkholes, waterfalls and the close proximity of marine and fresh water ecosystems.
The Main Lake chain of interconnected lakes forms the largest freshwater waterway in the Gulf and Discovery Islands. Main Lake, Village Bay Lake and Mine Lake are connected by narrow, shallow marshes navigable by canoes and dinghies only. Other lakes can be reached via rough, user-created portage routes.
Park Size: 3539 hectares
General Visitor Information
Visitor Safety
Bring your own drinking water, as potable water is not available in the
park. All surface water must be boiled, filtered or treated prior
to consumption.
Boaters and paddlers should be prepared for quick
changing weather, which can result in rough water on the lakes.
Main Lake Provincial Park is located on east-central Quadra Island. Visitors can reach Quadra Island via BC Ferry service from Campbell River on central Vancouver Island. While the park may be accessed by vehicle via ferry/highway, it is best enjoyed by canoe, kayak or small boat. The closest communites are Heriot Bay, Quadra Island and Campbell River.
Nature & Culture
History - Main Lake Provincial Park was designated in 1997 as a result of recommendations made in the Vancouver Island Land Use Plan.
Cultural Heritage - First Nations presence in the park is depicted in a panel of pictographs in red ochre on Main Lake. There is also evidence of an old portage route from Yeatman Bay.
Conservation - This park protects a biologically exceptional area that includes more than 72 bird species and 234 plant species. Physically, the park is exceptional with limestone sinkholes and waterfalls.
Wildlife - Wildlife in the park includes wolves, cougars, owls, Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, Peregrine falcons and wintering swans.
There are excellent opportunities for canoeing or kayaking in this park.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted as per provincial and federal fishing regulations. All anglers should check the current regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada prior to fishing. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Hiking
An unmaintained, rough route leads from the access road just north of the entrance of the parking lot to Heatman Bay. Another undeveloped route runs from Heatman Bay to the northeast corner of Main Lake, approximately 1.6 km away. For your own safety and the preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure.
Hunting
Portions of this park are open to hunting for specific species. Hunters must have valid licences and tags. Please refer to the Hunting and Trapping Regulations for more information.
Pets on Leash
Pets/domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. 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; however there are ample opportunities for lake swimming. There are NO LIFEGUARDS on duty at provincial parks.
Facilities Available At This Park
Boat Launch
A sandy bottom boat launch is available for small boats only. NOTE: A 9.9 hp motor restriction is enforced on the Main Lake system.
Campfires
While fires are allowed, we encourage visitors to conserve the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using stoves instead. If you must use a campfire, please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics and use campfire rings.
Walk-In/Wilderness Camping
Wilderness camping is allowed at seven (7) designated camping areas in the park, but no facilities are provided. These areas are accessible by boat only. Camping is not permitted in other areas of the park. This park is open year round; there is no winter camping fee.
Winter Camping
Wilderness camping is allowed at seven (7) designated camping areas in the park, but no facilities are provided. These areas are accessible by boat only. Camping is not permitted in other areas of the park. This park is open year round; there is no winter camping fee.
