Memory Island Provincial Park

About This Park

This small, day-use only park provides quiet nature viewing and picnicking on one of the only protected park islands found in a major destination lake. Located on Shawnigan Lake on southern Vancouver Island, this park is one of the smallest parks in British Columbia. This tiny island provides sanctuary and habitat for a variety of small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, plants and fungi. Memory Island is accessible by boat, canoe or kayak from various points on Shawnigan Lake, including West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park.

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: 1 hectare

Location and Maps

Location Map

Memory Island Provincial Park is located on Shawnigan Lake on southern Vancouver Island. The park can be reached from various points on Shawnigan Lake, including West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park. To reach this park turn west off Hwy 1 at Shawnigan/Mill Bay Road in Mill Bay. Follow the road approximately 15 km to Shawnigan Lake, then turn right onto Shawnigan Lake Road. Follow this road until you reach the park. Nearby communities include: Shawnigan Lake, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Cowichan

Nature and Culture

Conservation - Because of Memory Island’s isolation from the mainland, the park protects nesting waterfowl during the spring. Resident breeding birds include Common mergansers, Belted kingfishers and Common snipe. This tiny island also provides sanctuary and habitat for a variety of small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, plants and fungi.
General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information

Management Planning

Management Planning Information

Approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan.

Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

There are canoeing and kayaking opportunities at this park.

Fishing

Shawnigan Lake, which surrounds Memory Island, is stocked with trout and is a popular destination for anglers. Lake 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

There are no developed trails at this park.

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. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.

Facilities Available at this Park

Picnic Areas

This park has a day-use/picnic area.

Pit or Flush Toilets

Pit toilet.