English River Falls Park, north of Nanaimo, is a pristine wilderness park that is part of the well serviced Provincial park system. Located along the Englishman River, the park features two spectacular waterfalls dropping into fairly deep canyons.
The park is located in an old growth forest of Cedar, Douglas fir and maple. It is centrally located on Vancouver Island, about a half hour drive from Nanaimo going north.
Hiking Trails
The Park has campgrounds, hiking trails and spectacular views all along the way. I visited the park at the end of June when the weather was perfect. Walking a short distance from the parking lot we could hear the roar of the waterfall.
There are plenty of locations to view the river and waterfalls including climbing down the canyon rocks for a closer look. A walking bridge took us to the otherside of the river with even better viewing of the upper river turning into a crashing waterfall.
You can reach the other, smaller waterfall at the other end of the hiking trail. You can view the salmon runs in the fall.
Picnic Areas
There is a large area for picnics adjacent parking lot which has a viewing platform overlooking the river. Flush toilets and water is available. Picnic areas are now free.
Camping
The campground netseled in the forest with some 100 spots is open with full services from May to September. In the off seaon, the camping is still accessible but may not have full services there.
There is also an adventure playground between campsites 26 and 28 with a climbing apparatus swings and slides. The camping fees are $21 per day and you can reserve.
Swimming
You can swim in the river but I suspect it is a bit cold. I didn’t try it myself but the deep crystal-clear pool just below the lower falls looked inviting. As a note there are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
Fishing and Other
Fishing is not a permitted at Englishman River Falls Park. If you are interested in fishing nearby check with Fisheries and Oceans Canada for allowed fishing areas. You need a fishing license for any fishing or angling in BC.
Bicycle helmets are mandatory in BC and cycling is is permitted on the roadways only. You can bring your pet but you need to keep them on a leash at all times.
Getting to Englishman Falls
Going North on Highway 19 from Nanaimo exit onto Highway 4 near Parksville then travel to Errington Road and follow the directions.
Park Contact: R.L.C. Enterprize Ltd., E-mail: office@rlcparks.ca Tel: (250) 474-1336
Nanaimo Accommodation
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
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Enjoy all that the Nanaimo area has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.