Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Sidney, BC V8L2P6
Phone:250-654-4000
Fax:250-654-4014
Web: www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/bc/gulf
Size: 35 sq. km.
Established: 2003.
Location:Situated in the southern Strait of Georgia to the southeast of Vancouver Island (British Columbia), park is spread out over 15 islands and includes numerous islets and reefs. British Columbia Ferries provides vehicle and passenger service to Mayne Island, Saturna Island and North and South Pender Islands through their Southern Gulf Islands routes from the Swartz Bay (Vancouver Island) and Tsawwassen (Vancouver) ferry terminals. All other areas of the park are accessible only via powerboat, sailboat or kayak.
Facilities:Services and facilities for visitors are limited. Parks Canada is working to develop a national park management plan that will take several years to complete. Privately-operated tourist services outside of the park are available on Saturna, Mayne, and North and South Pender islands. Arrangements for overnight accommodation on these islands should be made in advance. Fees are charged for campsites and overnight dockspace and mooring buoys.
Activities:Camping, hiking, boating, and kayaking.
Special Features:Located between BC's largest urban centers, Vancouver and Victoria, the islands and surrounding waters are key attractions for local residents and visitors. They provide habitat for great blue heron, numerous shorebirds and waterfowl, and haul-outs for harbour seals and sea lions.
See other parks in British Columbia.