North Cowichan offers more than 71 diverse parks and 244 hectares to visit. From large destination parks to small neighbourhood spaces, North Cowichan’s parks offer playgrounds, dog off-leash parks, skate parks, sports courts, water/beach access, and picnic areas.
Water and swimming access are indicated by blue ocean/water access sign posts or see the tables below. Island Health regularly tests water at popular swimming beaches and sites. Watch for signage or visit Island Health for the latest water quality reports and information about advisories.
Park safety
While enjoying the parks, please respect the following:
- All pets must be leashed (unless otherwise posted) and cleaned up after.
- Stay on designated trails or pathways.
- Use litter bins.
- Treat wildlife with respect and never approach.
- Leave all natural materials in place as is (includes trees, flowers and plants).
For situations that pose an immediate risk to property, public health or safety, call 911.
Special event bookings
Planning an event, gathering or outing? Park use permits are required for large formal activities or for businesses looking to conduct activities within our parks. For larger events that involve more than parks, please see our Special Events Planning page.
Contact our parks department at 250-746-3169 or parksrec@northcowichan.ca to check availability and to reserve your space.
Respectful spaces
The Respectful Spaces Bylaw ensures that our parks and recreational facilities provide a safe and inclusive environment for people to enjoy. Residents and visitors alike have the right to be free of harassment, bullying, intimidation, violence and discrimination while visiting these areas and are to be treated with mutual respect and dignity.
If a violation is observed regarding this bylaw when using our parks, please contact the bylaw department at 250-746-3108 or email bylaw@northcowichan.ca.
Play Kits
Looking for something to do at a park? Borrow a Play Kit from Fuller Lake Arena to get active! Inside each kit is a diverse selection of equipment to help you have fun. Sponsored by Play Cowichan and Island Savings Credit Union.
For more info email recreation@northcowichan.ca
Community parks
Chemainus
| Featured Parks | Type |
|---|---|
| Askew Creek Park | Natural Area |
| Caswell Street Playground | Playground |
| Chemainus Lake Park | Off-leash Dog Park |
| Chemainus River Park | Community Park & Water Access |
| Cook Beach Park | Water Access Park |
| Daniel Street Park | Water Access Park |
| Fuller Lake Park (partially accessible) | Destination Park |
| Fuller Lake Pickleball Courts | Pickle Ball & Tennis Courts |
| Gerry Smith Park | Public Plaza |
| Humbird Street Park (corner of Cook and Humbird St.) | Neighbourhood Park |
| Kinsmen Beach Park | Playground & Water Access |
| Waterwheel Park (accessible) | Public Plaza |
| Wu'laam Park | Natural Area |
Crofton
| Featured Parks | Type |
|---|---|
| Crofton Beach Park | Community Park |
| Crofton Museum Park | Community Park with Playground |
| Crofton Outdoor Pool/Courts | Recreation Facility |
| Crofton Seawalk (accessible) | Destination Park |
| Gerry Hurst Memorial Skate Park | Skate Park |
Maple Bay
| Featured Parks | Type |
|---|---|
| Andy Hutchins Park | Off-leash Dog Park/Pickle Ball & Tennis Courts |
| Art Mann Park (accessible) SERVICE NOTICE: Playground will be closed from Monday, Sept. 23 until Tuesday, Oct. 1 for repairs. | Community Park (playground & lake access) |
| Maple Bay Beach Park | Water Access Park |
| Maple Mountain Trails | Hiking and Mountain Bike Trails |
| Sterling Ridge Park (accessible) | Neighbourhood Park/Water Access Park |
| Trumpeter Point Park | Water Access Park |
South End
| Featured Parks | Type |
|---|---|
| Alan Wilson Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Carmel Drive Park | Playground |
| Evans Park | Sports Field/Park |
| Fairview Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Herons Wood Park | Natural Area/Neighborhood Park |
| Kin Park | Community Park |
| Marsh Road Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Mayo Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Moorefield Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Rock Ridge Park | Neighbourhood Park |
| Sherman Road Park (accessible) | Sports Field/Park |
| Somenos Creek Dog Park | Off-leash Dog Park |
| Somenos Marsh Classroom (accessible) | Boardwalk |
| S’amunu Trail (accessible) | Trail |
Regional parks
The Cowichan Valley Regional District also maintains a number of parks and trails in North Cowichan. Find a regional park near you at cvrd.ca