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
Rosewall Creek Provincial Park is situated along picturesque Rosewall Creek, south of Fanny Bay on central Vancouver Island. The park features a mixture of coniferous trees interspersed with striking broad leaf maple trees. One of the best times to visit this park is in the fall when the color of the maple leaves makes an attractive backdrop for photographers.
This small day-use only park has two picnic areas on either side of the creek. Two picnic tables overlook the creek on one side, and two more tables are situated right next to the river on the other. A short riverside trail connects the two picnic areas on either side of Rosewall Creek.
Park Size: 54.3 hectares
General Visitor Information
Trail surfaces can be uneven. Watch for rising water levels
associated with periods of snow melt or heavy rains.
Rosewall Creek Provincial Park is located approximately 3 km south of Fanny Bay in the Comox Valley on central Vancouver Island. The park can be accessed by the Cook Creek interchange off Hwy #19 or Hwy #19a; the park is located approximately 2 km from the interchange. The closest communities are Fanny Bay, Courtenay, Comox Valley and Qualicum Beach.
Nature & Culture
History - The Fanny Bay/Bowser Memorial Committee lobbied the government to create this park, established in 1956, in memory of Lt. Ian MacDonald. The picnic site in the park was dedicated to the memory of Lt. Ian MacDonald (1920-1944) of the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Ian was born in Vernon, BC in 1920 and moved to Fanny Bay in 1929. Like many young men and women of his day, Ian was quick to enlist when Canada entered the war against Hitler's Germany in 1939. On September 14, 1939 he became a private in the Canadian Scottish Regiment at Comox, where, after extensive training, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant. On June 2nd, 1944 he and those under his command became part of the Allied invasion of Normandy – he was killed in action 8 days later.
Conservation - The park protects a Coastal western hemlock forest and big leaf maple trees, and makes a small contribution to the representation of the Nanaimo Lowlands Ecosection. The park also protects Rosewall Creek, a coho salmon spawning stream.
Cycling is permitted on roadways only. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted as per provincial and federal fishing regulations. This river is subject to spot closures. 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
A short wheelchair accessible loop trail runs along both sides of the river, offering great views of the river and forest. Another trail leads under the highway bridge and upstream to some spectacular views of the river. The upstream trail leads out of the park through Ministry of Forests land to a beautiful waterfall. This trail is not maintained by BC Parks. 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.
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. During the summer when periods of low water are present, the river pools provide good opportunities for swimming. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
Facilities Available At This Park
Picnic Areas
summary
Pit or Flush Toilets
This park has 2 pit toilets, located in the parking area.
Wheelchair Access
Pit toilets and the short trail to the picnic area are wheelchair accessible.
