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Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is one of the most magnificent parks on Vancouver Island, situated above Cameron Lake. This brilliant park covers the entire southern shore of Cameron Lake and features breathtaking waterfalls (Little Qualicum Falls) cascading into a rocky gorge. The Little Qualicum River passes through the park and is one of the few rivers in British Columbia known to have brown trout.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a popular destination for family and friends. This stunning park offers a chance for camping and peaceful hiking in a beautiful forest setting. Swimming is also possible at the number of cool, clear pools of the Little Qualicum River.
The trails in this park are made up of wooden stairs and gravel sections that lead to the upper and lower falls. The park offers spectacular scenery, especially from wooden bridges among old-growth Douglas-fir forest and across the Little Qualicum River.


Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park Location

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, with about 440 hectares (1087 acres), is located west of Parksville on central Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Cameron Lake on the south part of the park is between Mount Arrowsmith to the south and Mount Wesley to the north. Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, 22.6 km (14 miles) far from the park, is a magnificent park. It is covered with old-growth and second-growth forest and features two spectacular waterfalls (Englishman River Falls) cascading into deep canyons. Englishman River Regional Park, 29.1 km (18 miles) away to the east, presents nature's beauty along the Englishman River. It is home to numerous wildlife species, including Roosevelt Elk. Cathedral Grove is 12 km (7.4 miles) away from the park and is part of MacMillan Provincial Park. It is a rare and endangered remnant of an ancient Douglas fir ecosystem on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.


How to Get to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park by Car

From Victoria:
The distance from Victoria to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is 167 km (103 miles) and takes almost 2 hours and 4 minutes via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N.
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 Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo G. Take exit 60 from BC-19 N1. After 155 km (96.3 miles), continue on BC-4 W. Drive to Little Qualicum Fall Rd in Nanaimo F. Drive 10.7 km (6.6 miles) more to reach the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

From Nanaimo:
From Nanaimo to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is 56.7 km (35.2 miles) distance to cover. It takes almost 42 minutes via BC-19 N.
Head west on Fitzwilliam St toward Wesley St. After 800 m (2624.6 ft), continue onto Third St for 1.9 km (1.1 miles). Then continue onto Jingle Pot Rd for 650 m (2132.5 ft) and turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). After 41.2 km (25.6 miles), take exit 60 toward Port Alberni. Drive for 155. 5 km and merge onto Memorial Rd/BC-4 W. After 9.4 km (5.8 miles), turn right onto Little Qualicum Fall Rd. Continue for 1.3 km (0.8 miles) to reach the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.


The Hike to Get to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

1. "Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park" is a 2.9 km (1.8 miles) out and back trail with 66 m (216.5 ft) of elevation gain. It is near Qualicum Beach, perfect for nature trips and bird watching. The good news is that it is accessible all year round. This path is easy, and hiking and walking stimulate activities to do on this trail, especially with stairs and bridges.

2. "Little Qualicum River and Falls" is an easy loop with 1.3 km (0.8 miles) length and 42 m (137.7 ft) of elevation gain. This easy path is suitable for all skill levels. You can use it for hiking and nature trips.


History of Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park was established on December 20, 1940. The purpose was to preserve the old-growth Douglas-fir forest, the associated plant communities, and the river and the waterfalls' area. The name Qualicum has an interesting meaning, "where the dog salmon run." Dog salmon refers to chum salmon, and the name comes from the Pentlatch language, which is the Coast Salish People's language. The Qualicum reserve is home to Kwakwaka'wakw people; their native language is Kwakiutl.


Things to do around the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park Area

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a spectacular area with amazing wildlife. It offers numerous activities such as hiking and biking through excellent trails. For doing water sports like swimming, fishing, windsurfing, waterskiing, scuba diving, and canoeing Cameron Lake is perfect. The park gives you an opportunity to enjoy some fresh air and water. Based on the BC Act, Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is one of the protected areas on Vancouver Island, where you are not allowed to hunt.

The Best Parks Near Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

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.

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.

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.

Helliwell Provincial Park

Helliwell Provincial Park

Are you a nature lover looking for ocean views, beaches, forests and mountains all in one? Do you struggle with busy life challenges? Discover how the tranquil area of Helliwell Provincial Park gives you the exact solutions to emotional healing and inner strength. This environmentally sensitive area is a gem on Hornby Island, with Douglas fir and Garry oak forest overlooking the ocean.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park Activities

Hiking

There are several hiking trails through the old-growth and second-growth forest along the Little Qualicum River, which offer spectacular views.

Swimming

You can go swimming in Cameron Lake. Be careful; there are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.

Cycling

Visitors can go cycling along the trails.
Keep your bicycle on the roadways. Remember that bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

Fishing

Cameron Lake provides fishing chances. Cameron Lake is one of a few lakes in British Columbia known to have brown trout. Remember that all fishers should have an appropriate licence in British Columbia.

Canoeing

The Cameron Lake day-use area and the Beaufort day-use area give great opportunities for freshwater canoeing or kayaking on Cameron Lake.

Windsurfing

Cameron Lake is a popular windsurfing destination because of a wind funnel created by the lake's mountains.

Scuba Diving

Cameron Lake gives you an opportunity to experience freshwater scuba diving.

Waterskiing

Waterskiing is possible in Cameron Lake.

Wildlife Viewing

This magnificent region features Little Qualicum Falls and is covered with an old-growth and second-growth forest.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

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.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park Outline

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1- The numbers are estimated on average.

What you Can Expect to See Near Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

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.

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