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
Peaceful Roberts Memorial Provincial Park near Nanaimo on south Vancouver Island offers a small day-use area on the beach overlooking scenic Stewart Channel – an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon picnic.
An easy 1-kilometer trail through mature forest leads to the rocky beach, which offers good opportunities for wildlife viewing. From here, visitors can often see Steller’s and California sea lions, who haul out to bask in the sun on the park’s unique sandstone ledges during the summer months. Great Blue herons, Bald eagles and a variety of seabirds can also be spotted in the park, which was donated to the province by May Vaughan Roberts in memory of her husband and daughter.
Special Features: The park contains unique sandstone ledges. These ledges are part of the geological heritage of Vancouver Island and represent ancient sea beds. The ledges serve as a haul-out location for sea lions, which can often be spotted basking in the sun in this area.
Roberts Memorial Park is located 15 km south of Nanaimo on central Vancouver Island. From Hwy 1 take the Cedar Road exit, then turn on Yellowpoint Road. Follow signs to the park.
Nature & Culture
History: Established in 1980, this park was donated by May Vaughan Roberts in memory of her husband and daughter. A shell midden on the beach demarcates the site of First Nations harvesting of the rich intertidal life.
Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing
Salmon fishing from the rocks is a popular activity at this park. 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 easy 1 km trail from the parking lot leads to a small picnic area on the beach overlooking scenic Stewart Channel. This trail travels through second-growth Douglas fir. 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.
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.
Wildlife Viewing
There is no viewing platform but the rocky beach provides good opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can often see Steller's and California sea lions, who haul out on the sandstone ledges in the park during the summer months. Great Blue herons, Bald eagles and a variety of seabirds can also be spotted from the park.
Facilities Available At This Park
Picnic Areas
An easy 1-km trail from the parking lot leads to a small picnic area on the beach overlooking scenic Stewart Channel. Facilities include 2 picnic tables and pit toilets.
Pit or Flush Toilets
This park has 2 pit toilets - one at beach and one at parking lot.
