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
White Ridge Provincial Park forms the backdrop for the quaint village of Gold River, on the west coast of northern Vancouver Island. The name of the park is derived from the white limestone and karst topography for which the area is internationally known.
The park’s karst surfaces - a distinctive topography in which the landscape is largely shaped by the dissolving action of water on carbonate bedrock, usually limestone, dolomite or marble - are significant and easy to see. White Ridge also features an extensive cave system and protects important deer and Roosevelt elk habitat. Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.
Park Size: 1,343 hectares
Special Notes:
Karst topography is easily damaged. Please use caution in this sensitive area. Do not damage or remove any rock formations or features from the caves.
White Ridge Park extends from the boundary of Strathcona Provincial Park northwest to the Gold River Highway corridor. The park is located 4 km west of Gold River and is accessed off Gold River Highway 28 via the BR 80 logging road.
Nature & Culture
Conservation - White Ridge Park includes a prominent mid-elevation forested ridge which forms the eastern viewscape of the community of Gold River. The park also protects important deer and elk habitat and a system of caves. The name of the park is derived from the white limestone and karst topography, for which the area is internationally known.
Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
There is no digitized map/brochure available for this park.
Activities Available At This Park
Caving
White Ridge Provincial Park is known for its extensive cave system. Most caves are suitable for experienced cavers only. Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.
White-nose Syndrome
White-nose Syndrome
is a fungal disease that has been linked to mass die-off of hibernating bats in North America - it poses a significant threat to colonies in British Columbia. Please read the White Nose Syndrome fact sheet to understand the disease, how to limit it's spread, and find out what cavers and park visitors can do to help.
Hiking
There are no developed trails at this park. User-created routes do exist into and through the park. They are often unmarked and steep, exposed and very rough. Use caution when hiking on these routes.
Hunting
Portions of this park are open to hunting for specific species. Hunters must have valid licences and tags. Please refer to the current
Hunting and Trapping Regulations and Synopsis publication for closures and regulations.
Pets on Leash
Pets/domestic animals must be under control all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Dogs are not permitted in caves.
Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
Wildlife Viewing
The cave system, significant surface karst features and old-growth forest provide ample opportunities for interesting viewing at this park.
Facilities Available At This Park
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.
Walk-In/Wilderness Camping
There are no designated campsites at this park, however random wilderness camping is allowed. No facilities are provided. Please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics.
Winter Camping
White Ridge Provincial Park is open year round, however access roads may become snowbound in the winter.
