South Island · Cowichan
Nitinat River Park
About this Park
The Nitinat River flows through lush forest and is an important system for wildlife and salmon and is significant to local Indigenous communities.
This wilderness park, which protects a variety of rare and endangered plant species, has no developed camping or day-use facilities, aside from a rough, unmaintained route leading from the roadside to the river.
Nitinat River Park can be reached by logging road from the communities of Port Alberni, Cowichan Lake and Port Renfrew.
Safety information
- Access to this park is by active logging roads. The chance of encountering loaded logging trucks while traveling these roads is highly likely. Logging trucks have the right of way at all times. Drivers should use caution and yield to logging trucks; use pullouts whenever possible. Visitors should carry a full-sized spare tire.
- The banks along the river are extremely steep with canyon sections, creating hazards. Please use caution when hiking along the river’s edge.
Special notes
- Fires are not permitted anywhere, at any time.
- There are no fire rings provided in Nitinat River Park. When wilderness camping, please bring a portable stove for cooking.
Location notes
Nitinat River Park is located above Nitinat Lake, northwest of Port Renfrew on southern Vancouver Island. The park can be accessed via Port Alberni, Cowichan Lake or Port Renfrew along the Nitinat Main logging road. Two sites, Nitinat River Falls and Nitinat River bridge pool, are located approximately 8 km and 15 km southwest of Cowichan Lake, accessed via logging roads. Nearby communities include Cowichan Lake, Duncan, Port Alberni, Port Renfrew.
Activities
- 9748:Canoeing 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.
- 9748:Fishing The Nitinat River is home to steelhead, salmon and a variety of fresh water species. The pools within the canyon are closed to fishing, while the Nitinat River bridge pool is an open area for fishing at specific times of the year. Fishing is permitted as per provincial and federal fishing regulations.For up to date information, all anglers should check all current and relevant freshwater (non-tidal) sport fishing and tidal water sport fishing regulations, including the appropriate licensing requirements, prior to fishing.
- 9748:Wildlife viewing Nitinat River Park provides excellent viewing opportunities. Rare plant species and old-growth Douglas fir and Western hemlock can also be seen in the park. Also of note is the river itself, which carves through this lush forest in a series of spectacular falls and quiet, clear pools.
- 9748:Pets on leash Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
Location
48.86600, -124.61400 · Cowichan