Spider Lake Provincial Park

Campfires are not allowed in this park
Due to health authority regulations, BC Parks has removed the drinking water hand pump from the day-use area. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

About This Park

One of the best picnic sites in the area, Spider Lake features a small sandy beach perfect for water lovers of all ages on a hot summer day.

The warm water of Spider Lake is noted for its excellent canoeing, kayaking and swimming and the park is an idyllic spot for a quiet family outing. Paddlers can spend a peaceful afternoon exploring the shoreline and the many secluded bays of this lake, located west of Qualicum Beach on central Vancouver Island.

Spider Lake is stocked with small mouth bass and Rainbow trout, providing fishing opportunities year-round. Powerboats are prohibited but small car-top boats and canoes and kayaks can be launched from the beach next to the park’s small parking lot. Boats can also be launched from a steep banked causeway outside of the park.

Park Size: 65 hectares

Special Notes:

Pets must be on a leash at all times in the park and are not allowed on beach areas.
Powerboats are PROHIBITED on Spider Lake.
The main parking lot and day-use area is closed from October 16 to May 14 of each year. Please use the small parking lot during this period.
Camping is not permitted at this park. Camping opportunities are available at a private campground located adjacent to Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, approximately 10 km away.
The park does not offer a boat launch. Small boats, canoes and kayaks can be put in the water at the small day-use area located off Lakeview Road less than 1 km before the main park entrance.

View the Annual Drinking Water System Report: Spider Lake

Location and Maps

Location Map

Spider Lake Provincial Park is located 60 km north of Nanaimo and 16 km west of Qualicum Beach on central Vancouver Island. The park can be accessed via the Horne Lake exit off Hwy #19 or Hwy #19a. Follow signs for 5 km to Spider Lake.
Nearby communities include: Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Comox Valley

Maps and Brochures

Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.

Park Map (pdf)
Brochure (pdf)

Nature and Culture

General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information

Management Planning

Management Planning Information

Approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan.

Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

The warm water of Spider Lake is noted for its excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Paddlers can spend a peaceful afternoon exploring the shoreline and the many secluded bays of this lake. Paddlers can set in at the small day-use area, located off Lakeview Road less than 1 km before the main park entrance. This area has parking for up to 8 vehicles.

Caving

Excellent caving opportunities are located close to Spider Lake at Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, approximately 10 km away.

Cycling

Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

Fishing

Spider Lake is stocked with Rainbow trout and small mouth bass and is a popular spot for anglers. 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

A short, easy trail connects the two day-use areas. 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

During the summer months, this is an extremely popular destination. Pets/domestic animals must be on a leash and under control at 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.

Scuba Diving

This park offers opportunities for fresh water scuba diving.

Swimming

The warm waters of Spider Lake are ideal for swimming. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.

Windsurfing

Opportunities exist for windsurfing at this park during periods of high winds.

Facilities Available at this Park

Picnic Areas

This park has a large day-use/picnic area, with approximately 16 picnic tables, fresh water, 5 pit toilets and a sandy beach. This area and the parking lot is closed from October 16 to May 14 of each year.

A smaller day-use area, open year round, can be found off Lakeview Road less than 1 km before the main park entrance. This area has two picnic tables, a pit toilet and parking for up to 8 vehicles. Small boats, canoes and kayaks can be easily launched from this location.

Pit or Flush Toilets

There are 5 pit toilets located throughout the park.

Wheelchair Access

Some facilities in the park are wheelchair accessible.