Englishman River Falls

This 97-hectare park offers several walking trails which meander through lush old-growth forests of cedar, arbutus, fir, maple and hemlock along the Englishman River. Gaze up among the tall timbers where fingers of sunlight slant down to the ferns below.

Legend has it that First Nation people in the area during the last century found the skeleton of a white man along the river near the waterfall, hence the present name of the falls. Today the park is noted for its natural beauty, which includes a deep crystal clear pool with a small rocky beach downstream from the base of the lower falls, a great freshwater swimming hole and sunbathing area.

Looking downstream from the Falls

Outdoor enthusiasts head to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park for hiking, fishing and camping or to view spawning salmon in the fall.

There are well-maintained spacious campsites - reservations are accepted. There are no wilderness/walk-in capsites at this park, and no showers, flush toilets or a sani-station.

The park is open all year. Fees collected for services May 1 to October 15. There is a winter fee with nil services provided; campers must be self-sufficient and user maintained.

A picnic shelter, flush toilets and a fresh water supply are available at the day-use area located past the campground next to the parking lot. This scenic location nestled in the forest provides a viewing platform overlooking the river, as well as access to park trails. There is an adventure playground with swings, slides and climbing apparatus, located between campsites 26 and 30, in the northeast corner of the campground.

All amenities and marvellous ocean beaches are to be found in Parksville. This park does not have a boat launch. The closest fresh water boat launch is at Cameron Lake, off Hwy #4, approximately 20 minutes away. The closest salt water boat launch is at French Creek Marina, approximately 20 minutes away.