Loading...

National Parks and Provincial Parks in British Columbia

British Columbia's parks range from the Rocky Mountains to Pacific beaches and island forests. A trip based around Vancouver Island has very different transport needs from one through the interior, so choose your part of the province before collecting park names.

Compare national parks in British Columbia, national park reserves and provincial parks on the map. Coastal ferries, mountain passes and the distance between regions can shape the holiday as much as the attractions inside each park.

How many parks in British Columbia you can find on Traveler Map?

  • national parks: 7
  • provincial parks: 623

Mountains and the Pacific coast need different itineraries

Yoho National Park and Kootenay National Park are useful choices for a Rockies trip that may also include Alberta. Allow time to explore one area on foot before changing bases. A day of driving between famous lakes is a different experience from a day on a mountain trail.

On Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes distinct areas. Long Beach offers coastal walks and rainforest visits; the West Coast Trail is a demanding backcountry undertaking; the Broken Group Islands require boat access. The official Pacific Rim guide helps you choose the right unit.

Look beyond the federal parks

Garibaldi Provincial Park offers alpine hiking from access points along the Sea to Sky corridor. A scenic lake destination can still involve a substantial climb and mountain conditions. Check BC Parks information for Garibaldi for access, day-use arrangements and overnight reservations before setting out.

Wells Gray Provincial Park makes waterfalls and forest scenery the focus of an interior journey. Its developed access areas and more remote lake or backcountry destinations should be considered separately. Decide which part you intend to visit before selecting a campground.

Give island travel enough room

The Gulf Islands National Park Reserve is spread among island settings, not a single road-accessible block. Work from the relevant island and access point, then check transport and facilities. Do not assume that a ferry arrival leaves enough time for a second connection or a long walk on the same day.

Choose the booking system that matches the park

Federal reserves and BC provincial parks have separate arrangements. Check current closures, campsite availability and transport before committing to a fixed route. A smaller group of parks with time for the coast or mountains usually makes a more satisfying visit than trying to cross the province between short stops.