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Vanislander

Horne Lake

Horne Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes on Vancouver Island. Going to Horne Lake, you would be fascinated by eye-catching spectacles. There are Horne Lake Caves in the Horne Lake area, which are worth exploring. Also, the Horne Lake Campground and Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, where you would enjoy visiting. Spider Lake Provincial Park is another place near Spider Lake near Horne Lake with a sandy beach for enjoying camping and swimming. Horne Lake's soft water provides an enjoyable and fascinating environment to spend time in it.


Horne Lake Location

With a beautiful sight, Horne Lake is at the west of Qualicum Beach town with Marshy Lake, Lacey Lake and Spider Lake around it. In Horne Lake Regional Park and Horne Lake Campground, you would be fascinated by stunning spectacles where you can camp in the forest beside the lake. Horne Lake's length is about 8 km (5 miles) with a depth of 50 m (164 ft).


How to Get to Horne Lake by Car

From Victoria:
The fastest route to get to Horne Lake from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 183 km (113.7 miles) and takes about 2 hours and 38 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Nanaimo H. After 169 km (105 miles), follow Horne Lake Rd to S Lake Rd. Drive 13.1 km (8.1 miles) more to reach Horne Lake.

From Nanaimo:
The fastest route from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 72.7 km (45.1 miles) and takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes.
Take Third St to BC-19 N. After 3.3 km (2 miles) turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). Drive 56.3 km (34.9 miles) and follow Horne Lake Rd to S Lake Rd. After 13.1 km (8.1 miles), you will reach Horne Lake.


The Hike to Get to Horne Lake

"Qualicum River Trail: Qualicum Bay Resort to Horne Lake" is a moderate out-and-back hiking trail with 26.7 km (16.5 miles) length and 553 m (1814.3 ft) elevation gain. It is located near Nanaimo H and features a waterfall. Dogs and horses can pass on this trail.


History of Horne Lake

Horne Lake used to be called Enoksasant Lake until 1855 when non-natives first inhabited the area; This person's name was Adam Horn. Four years after the arrival of non-natives in the area, Captain Richards changed the lake's local name to Horne Lake. The E&N Railway gave the lands around Horne Lake to Robert Dunsmuir in the early 1900s. Dunsmuir had plans to make the lake and surrounding area a private game reserve.
It was until the 1920s that Cottagers enjoyed Horne Lake as a recreational retreat. Several cottage license holders in 1996 formed an association named HLLHA (it is now called the Horne Lake association of HLCA). They did it to pursue the opportunity for a long-term tenure of the recreational lots for its members, the Horne Lake License Holders.
In December 1999 (HLLHA) agreed to the Horne Lake Lands' purchase and sale from Texada Land Corporation on behalf of the License Holders. From 1999, over 270 licensed holders invested and risked their money to achieve their goal, which was acquiescing a lot. After that, they created a community now known as Strata Community.


Things to Do around the Horne Lake Area

Since Horne Lake is next to Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park on one side and adjacent to Spider Lake Provincial Park and the closeness of Horne Lake Caves, a variety of sports and recreational activities can be planned in this area.

Nearby Lakes

Cameron Lake

Cameron Lake

It's time to meet an extraordinary lake that is not as tranquil as most of the lakes. Cameron Lake is famous for its huge winds, making it a desired place for windsurfers. The lake is an excellent family location suitable for fishing and swimming. It is a stunningly photogenic place with unique picnic areas surrounded by parks and lakes. So get the most out of your visit.

Horne Lake

Horne Lake

Going to Horne Lake, you would be fascinated by eye-catching spectacles and unbelievably crystal-clear water. New experiences are calling you! Explore the caves, stay at a clean campground and start adventures on your own or through guided tours. It is among the lakes that you can get water-front camping. The lake is calm and refreshing to ride a kayak.

Horne Lake Activities

Hiking

Walking from Qualicum River Bay Resort to Horne Lake would be attractive due to the eye-catching spectacular nature. Doing several activities during an interesting hike would be enjoyable. Also, Horne Lake Regional Park consists of trails with beautiful spectacles.

Fishing

Enjoying the relaxing sport of fishing, you can catch different types of fish like cutthroat, rainbow trout and, kokanee. The Qualicum River is also excellent for its salmon fishing. Fishing regulations must be checked before fishing in the parks.

Biking

Having enjoyable Biking is possible from Qualicum Beach to Horne Lake with the mostly paved road through beautiful sight.

Swimming

Near the Qualicum River, in Horne Lake Regional Park, swimming would be enjoyable in Horne Lake soft water. A boat launch ramp at the regional park at the west end of Horne Lake is available to Strata Owners for a nominal charge.

Boating

Due to its large space, Horne Lake would be entertaining to have a day or more exploring. Through Horne Lake Regional Park and Campground, rental canoes and boats are possible for the public. You even can enjoy kayaking exploring a variety of shorelines.

Camping

Spider Lake Provincial Park provides good campsites at a sandy beach. Camping is also possible in Horne Lake Regional Park.

Cave Exploring

Cave exploring near Horne Lake can be done at Horne Lake Caves. There are several challenges for enthusiasts. Underground caves have narrow paths, and sometimes you have to climb. Best to prepare well, and if you don't have enough experience take a guide.

What You Can Expect to Do Near Horne Lake

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail is a rewarding experience that you reach a beautiful waterfall at the end after an easy hike that may consist of challenges. Enjoy the beauties of the park while passing the lovely well-marked trail with facilities, along the creek and through lush bits of the rainforest.

Nanaimo Diving

Nanaimo Diving

Ranked as the best cold-water diving destination in BC, Nanaimo waters are saturated with new diving experiences. BC Ferries, dive shops, accessible shores, and the chance to observe cute beaches have made Nanaimo an ideal destination for visitors. Diving enthusiasts find themselves in the heavens when they come to Nanaimo, for it is home to spotless diving spots.

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

For those marine life lovers, Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching is a great opportunity. Participants can ride boats and surf the surrounding waters with the chance to explore the area and observe whales living near Nanaimo due to the high population of orcas and whales around there.

Camping in Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

Camping in Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

If you got a few days free and you plan to spend it on Vancouver Island, pay a visit to Fillongely Provincial Park to experience every possible way of camping. Nestled amongst lush green deciduous trees, visitors would enjoy excellent hiking trails with picturesque sights. This quiet, clean, and grassy park provides you with exciting activities and a gorgeous ocean and forest view.

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Despite its name, if you favour it, you can do tent camping with a sea view right in the center of Vancouver Island. one of the most significant fishing camps, Deep Bay s full of surprises for anglers. Not to mention that if you visit, you can observe various fantastic wildlife there. So, put your hesitates aside, and plan to visit Camping in Deep Bay RV Park this weekend.

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Looking for a place on Hornby Island to stay the night while enjoying yourselves? You would better stop by camping in Ford's Cove Marina and camp with your RV or tent. This campground has cute oceanic views and glorious sunsets with gorgeous mountains. The Ford's Cove Marina Campground sites are charming, well-maintained, and spacious, with a pleasant grassy and treed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

As a popular destination for campers from Nanaimo or Courtenay, Qualicum Bay Resort is one of the best places for nature admirers. Amuse your eye with the beautiful scenic view of this campground located on a beautiful beach. You are provided with almost every kind of camping and incredible landscape for those in the RV campground.

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

The great adventure in Fanny Bay will always hunt its visitors. The Lighthouse RV Park and Campground offer undeniable opportunities for camping of all kinds with a beautiful view of the ocean ornamented by mountains and islands. This campground offers excellent accommodation with every essential amenity. Not to mention that you can lose yourself in its charm, quiet, and unique sites and find it again.

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Spacious, unique, private, and complete facility sites are provided in Bradsdadsland Campsite for visitors to have a perfect time camping on Hornby Island. Embrace this fantastic opportunity for adventure while you are in one of the gems of Hornby Island. You would feel peaceful while camping in the beautiful Bradsdadsland, away from your daily boring daily routine. While watching sunsets, enjoy the ocean view ahead of you.

China Creek Diving

China Creek Diving

According to your level of proficiency or your preference, the depths for diving vary from shallow to deep in China Creek. Comprising a wall dive with an incredible view of Port Alberni and amazing marine creatures underneath the water surface multiplies the beauty of this diving experience.

Yeo Islands Diving

Yeo Islands Diving

Spend the gladdest moments of your life in Yeo Islands while diving into the waters. Also, you will have the chance to enjoy watching artificial cliffs that have embellished the area's view. Besides, the excellent adventure o diving visitors can benefit from other outdoor excitements and watching various marine life.

Wall Beach Diving

Wall Beach Diving

Don't just listen to people talking about Wall Beach. Come and see how beautiful this sea lion habitat is. Incredible diving opportunities are provided for both armature and professional divers. The chance to see several diverse marine life there is Wall Beach adds up to the reasons why one should come to this spectacular beach.

The Jib Diving

The Jib Diving

If you happen to wander around Nanoose Bay, The Jib Diving site is one of the most attractive diving destinations in the region, with a clean environment and easy access. Moreover, except for the beautiful view of the site, you can enjoy watching a diversity of marine life.

Tyee Cove Diving

Tyee Cove Diving

Just a short distance from downtown Nanaimo, you will find fantastic diving opportunities available all year round in Tyee Cove. You can choose the depth you are willing to dive in based on your proficiency level; plus, you are given a chance to explore the marine life inhabiting this diving zone.

Oak Leaf Diving

Oak Leaf Diving

Try to lead a life full of endless adventures, and to do so, you can consider Oak Leaf Diving as a means to that end. For those enthusiastic divers who want to explore a new and cozy location, the Oak Leaf Diving zone might be a suitable option to visit, with a magnificent environment and easy access.

Horne Lake Outline

Specifications

Climate

Water Temperature

Timing


1. The best time to visit Horne Lake is between June and October. This period generally has the best weather and the least chance of seepage.
1- All the numbers are for surface temperature.
2- The numbers are estimated on average.

What You Can Expect to See Near Horne Lake

Parksville

Parksville

Parksville is known for its scenic, superb sandy beaches. This city is also famous for hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, parks, entertainment centres, and many fantastic restaurants and pubs. The city's most popular annual festival is Sandcastle Competition. Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park are among the most visited places.

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is known as a place to relax with its large pebble beach, somewhere between Nanaimo and Parksville. The scene is stunning, specifically in the evening when the sun meets the ocean. No matters how many times you visited the beach, it is always peaceful and attractive. Nanoose Bay is home to many sea animals, and the beach is perfect for digging up some clams.

Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach

An excellent picnicking area and sunny weather attract many families in summer to relax on Qualicum Beach. This sandy beach is placed in an area with many facilities and attractions to enjoy your day. Let life lead you to the beach with the incredible landscape of Lasqueti Island Ecological Reserve hills, blue sky and the ocean. Choose kinds of water activities which you delight in doing.

Wall Beach

Wall Beach

Wall Beach is a rocky beach north of Nanoose Bay. The peaceful atmosphere gives you an excellent chance to live in the sunshine, feel alive by the ocean air, and relax. It is the best escape anyone can have to get rid of work pressure. Do what makes you happy and improve your health. The beach has a dive site to dive, swim, and explore the rich marine life.

Parksville Beaches

Parksville Beaches

Parksville Beaches is a public beach with endless tidal flats of sand and rock. In July, a fantastic event takes place; the Sand Castle Sculpture Competition and Exhibition. In summer, soaking in the sun and watching the splendid sky could be relaxing. As the beach has an extensive area, it suits children's taste to spend hours running freely, playing and beachcombing.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Mother of nature is so generous when it comes to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. With an old-growth Douglas-fir forest, the park features Cameron Lake, Little Qualicum Falls, and the Little Qualicum River. This stunning park offers a chance for excellent camping. The trails are made up of wooden stairs and gravel sections that lead to the falls making beautiful scenery for photography.

Milner Gardens & Woodland

Milner Gardens & Woodland

Milner Gardens & Woodland is on the list of the top ten public gardens in Canada. It is among old-growth Douglas fir forest, on the edge of an oceanside bluff. The garden is well known for its rhododendrons in spring and Japanese maples in fall. Strolling through the wide walkways makes a great family time. Enjoy it and have tea in its traditional tea room.

Dolphin Beach

Dolphin Beach

Dolphin Beach is known for its scuba diving site. Whether you are a beginner or professional, challenge your skills and explore marine life. See one of the world's best landscapes since twilight when the beach slowly lit and the sky is getting orange. The beach is more stunning with the trees at the backside and their shadow on the water surface.

Horne Lake Caves

Horne Lake Caves

Do you want to see the passage of time through the underground passages? Visit the crystal formations of Horne Lake Caves, right by Horne Lake. With about 1000 caves, it is an underground park that comes to many explorers' attention. Easy, moderate, and hard difficulty levels satisfy any novice to expert caver or spelunker. Search the dark and mysterious underground for educational or recreational purposes.

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is covered with old-growth and second-growth forests. It features Englishman River Falls and two bridges that cross the Englishman River. A deep, crystal clear pool with a small rocky beach downstream of the lower falls is a great place to view spawning salmons in the fall and go swimming in the summer.

Englishman River Regional Park

Englishman River Regional Park

Englishman River Regional Park is home to numerous wildlife species, like Roosevelt Elk and a community hatchery with an extensive salmon side channel. Peaceful hiking, nice biking, and water sports like fishing and swimming are among the things you can do. Find your place for picnicking or camping and walk with your dog off-leash. Leave your footprint and take your memories.

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park gives you two options; above-ground and underground adventures. Picking one or two can be fascinating. The park with more than 1,000 caves has ancient fossils, marbled passages and a world of crystal formations. Step into the lush green forest with moss-covered rocks and tall trees. Enjoy watching wildlife and do water activities at Horne Lake.

Somass River

Somass River

The Somass River is placed in an area with pristine nature and high ecosystem values. Being near the crystal clear water with white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, gorgeous rustic-chic villas, and enchanting, dazzling sunsets can make your day. Have a great experience watching black bears from spring to late fall. Enjoy the Alpine meadow, mountain top views, rain forests, and waterfalls.

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is a scenic parkland with tall trees, a campground, and a serene beachfront area suitable for family and friends or solo visitors. The tempting hiking trails among old-growth Douglas fir trees, watching beautiful sunsets by the ocean, and relaxing on the beach are some of the highlights. Extensive wildlife and migratory birds cause a great attraction.

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park, or Little Hawaii, has an expansive sweep of white sand surrounded by woods. The park is famous for its unusual rocky shoreline formations, tidal pools, and beautiful white sandy beaches. Its warm and shallow water is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Being there watching sunsets and a beautiful full moon without any street lights to distract the view would impress you.

Planning for Horne Lake

Suitability

Camping & Resort

Services

Packing

Travel Tips

1. Horne Lake has excellent fishing even through the winter, but your best bet is to try your luck in the spring.
2. There is a boat launch ramp at the Regional Park at the west end of Horne Lake that is available to Strata Owners for a nominal charge.
1. One of the best picnic sites in the area, Spider Lake has a small sandy beach for swimmers of all ages.
2. There are Multiple Campgrounds.
3. Horne Lake water pump needs to be boiled, treated, or filtered before use.
1. Campfires are not allowed.
1. For overnight hike please inform a responsible person of your intention.
2. Be well-equipped for climate conditions and check the weather reports before heading out.
3. Please, check fishing regulations before fishing in the park.

What Do You Think about Horne Lake?