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Rathtrevor Beach Provincial ParkParksville/Qualicum, Central Island

Beach & Waterfront
Parksville/Qualicum, Central Island
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park — Beach & Waterfront in Parksville/Qualicum, Vancouver Island, BC

About This Attraction

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park encompasses 347 hectares of old-growth Douglas fir forest, sandy shoreline, and exceptional camping facilities, ranking among British Columbia's most popular provincial parks. The park features nearly two kilometers of sandy beach along the Strait of Georgia, offering the same warm, shallow waters that make Parksville famous.

The park's beach extends up to 300 meters from shore during low tide, creating massive tidal flats perfect for exploring tide pools, finding sand dollars, and observing shore birds. During spring herring spawn, thousands of Brant geese stop at Rathtrevor during their northern migration, creating spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.

Rathtrevor offers 174 vehicle-accessible campsites nestled among towering Douglas fir trees, with modern facilities including flush toilets, hot showers, and a sanidump station. The park's Nature House provides educational programs about coastal ecology, and the park features 5 kilometers of forest trails connecting campground to beach.

The park hosts popular group camping areas and day-use facilities making Rathtrevor ideal for family reunions, corporate retreats, and outdoor gatherings. The combination of forested camping and beach access creates a unique camping experience unavailable in most BC provincial parks.

For Parksville real estate buyers, proximity to Rathtrevor adds significant value. Properties in South Parksville enjoy walking access to the park, while homes throughout the area benefit from this world-class amenity. The park supports Parksville's tourism economy and enhances the community's reputation as Vancouver Island's beach capital.

Visiting Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

  • Location: Highway 19A South, Parksville, BC, Parksville/Qualicum, BC
  • Category: Beach & Waterfront
  • Hours: Park open dawn to dusk for day use. Camping available March-October.
  • Admission: Day use: $3 per vehicle. Camping: $35-$45/night depending on season. Reservations recommended summer.
  • Area: Central IslandBrowse homes nearby

Hours

Park open dawn to dusk for day use. Camping available March-October.

Pricing

Day use: $3 per vehicle. Camping: $35-$45/night depending on season. Reservations recommended summer.

Key Features

  • 347 hectares of Douglas fir forest and beach
  • 2 kilometers of sandy shoreline
  • 174 vehicle-accessible campsites
  • 5 kilometers of forest hiking trails
  • Extensive tidal flats for exploring
  • Brant goose migration viewing (March-April)
  • Nature House with educational programs
  • Group camping areas
  • Warm shallow swimming

Amenities

  • Modern campground with flush toilets
  • Hot showers and washrooms
  • Sanidump station
  • Playground near beach
  • Picnic areas and shelters
  • Interpretive programs (summer)

Parking

Large day-use parking lot (fees apply). Campers park at individual sites.

Accessibility

Accessible campsites available. Accessible washrooms and showers. Beach requires walking on natural terrain.

Best Time to Visit

July-August for camping and warm swimming. March-April for Brant goose migration. September for quieter camping.

Location & Directions

Address

Highway 19A South, Parksville, BC

Nearby

15 restaurants
Highway 19A bus route access
On-site parking (fees apply)
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Contact Information

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