Most reviewed Nature & Wildlife Areas in British Columbia
4.5Victoria Butterfly Gardens(1.087 reviews)from $14.53 - Butterflies more active in the afternoon. Friday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
A Vibrant Jungle Experience. A unique opportunity to experience the beauty and curiosity of a tropical jungle up close. Meet our family with surprises at every turn. You’ll encounter tortoises, large iguanas, poison dart frogs, free flying tropical birds and more. Enjoy tropical fish, ducks, flamingos and koi fish in our serene pond and stream circulated by a stunning waterfall. Thousands of tropical butterflies (up to 70 species) fly through our large facilities the size of almost 3 basketball courts. Stroll through and marvel at our lush gardens including tropical flowers, carnivorous plants and fruits of the world. Wander in our newest Exhibit, the Insectarium, full of impressive insects & invertebrates from around the world. Your jungle adventure awaits.See more..
4.5Bloedel Conservatory(844 reviews)from $5.81 - Lots to see Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
Enjoy one of Vancouver’s most affordable attractions! Immerse yourself in the tropics at Bloedel Conservatory – a must-see indoor attraction located at the highest point of Vancouver in Queen Elizabeth Park. With exotic birds, vibrant koi fish, and over 500 varieties of lush tropical plants, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy under the Conservatory dome. After your visit, venture out to discover the captivating fountains, charming gardens, and breathtaking city views of Queen ElizabethSee more..
4.5Kamloops Wildlife Park(742 reviews)from $10.66 - Family Friendly Friday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos
The BC Wildlife Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue & rehabilitation of injured wildlife. Discover some of British Columbia's iconic wildlife and view nearly 200 animals and 65 animal species, including bears, elk, bobcats, arctic wolves, and cougars. The majority of the Park’s animals are rescued, including Clover, the only Kermode Bear in human care in the world. Book an interactive VIP Wildlife Experience or Wildlife Encounter, or enjoy seasonal activities such as feed talks, animal encounters, Bird of Prey flight demonstrations, splash park, playground, Wildlife Express miniature train, and more. For more detailed information, check out the daily activity schedule online.See more..
Unhappy couple lacking people skills running a small sized one acre enclosure on their property. After arriving from a long drive, the gates were still closed. Soon an employee arrived and drove through the exit, we thought we would too as our tour time was less than 5 minutes to starting. A lady ran over to the exit gate, threw her arms in the air & yelled angrily, we aren’t ready for you yet. I was surprised at our greeting & even more after finding out that was the owner. Dont make a special trip or go out of your way as it takes 10 minutes to walk through & my kids would have been mad at me. Its like driving & planning an entire trip around going to look at just one animal from the zoo in a cage. We could hear wolves fighting. Shelley replied with saying they were fighting earlier as well & blood was probably flying but too bad because she doesnt have anymore cages to put them in. If you pay for a tour be prepared for a walk about angry personal views on politics, the government & the world. Dont plan on walking with a pack of wolves but with one only by itself & expect defensiveness if you ask why there is only one wolf for the walk. The response was that they never claimed there would be more. Make sure you ask before booking if thats what you would be expecting too. It was a very expensive walk like taking my dog for a walk off leash. The setting was beautiful and the one wolf was too. But would I have paid $380 and drove hours if I really knew what I know now. See more..
4.5The Raptors(524 reviews) - An experience like no other Friday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
Birds of prey have always inspired awe. Sadly, they are threatened in many parts of the world. When you experience them up close, you learn that they are more than predators from the sky; they are essential to maintaining the delicate eco-balance of our planet. The Raptors offer compelling and interactive experiences with a variety of birds of prey species including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Get closer than you ever imagined to these majestic and intelligent creatures. Flying demonstrations, hands-on encounters and educational talks offered daily (March - October). The Raptors is located in the heart of the beautiful Cowichan Valley, just 60 minutes north of Downtown Victoria and 45 minutes south of Downtown Nanaimo by car.See more..
4.0Capilano Salmon Hatchery(350 reviews) - No cost activity for nature lovers Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests • Farms
Unsuspecting salmon lay their eggs here before they die.See more..
My friend and I tried going September 3rd. There is construction closing the road before Port Renfrew, if you have bad timing and get there right after they let cars through (like I did) the wait is 20 to 30 minutes. We drove towards the parking lot and it is closed due to a bear in area so we had to turn around. Posting this as warning for others, if your driving for this specifically research if it is open in advance. See more..
Situated upon 850 acres along the Fraser estuary at the mouth of the Fraser River, the George C. Reifel Migratory bird sanctuary is a must for birding enthusiasts. Easy hiking trails, bird blinds, and panoramic views await. See eagles, owls, hawks, falcons, waterfowl, songbirds, and the elusive Sandhill Crane.See more..
I visited today for a solo walk, the weather was terrible and was raining the whole time I was there. Plenty of parking available. Happy with that. There are plenty of maps and signs to tell you where where you are and where to go. The trail is very well maintained. The beauty of the trail and the lookouts over the Rapids are amazing. This is a must do if in the area.See more..
4.5Redwood Park(203 reviews) - Park a Hidden Jewel Nature & Wildlife Areas
We had a family outing to this park on a hot Saturday. Having lived in the Surrey area for a while, I did not know about this park. Boy, I have been missing out. The story behind this park and all the different trees made for a great experience. I especially loved the big redwood trees featured in this park -they are massive!!! A great picnic spot (also a good place to have an outdoor wedding).See more..
4.5Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve(164 reviews) - Experiencing the Wetlands Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
A 300 acre nature reserve with level walking trails, bird viewing blinds, observation tower and interpretive centre (free) . Known for a large nesting colony of Great Blue Herons which nest from March through July. Great bird and wildlife watching. Check website for free community programs and special events. Trail open dawn to dusk. Rotary Interpretive Centre is open 10 am to 4 pm.See more..
5.0Gwaii Haanas National Park(105 reviews) - Trip of a lifetime! National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
The location is for the administration office, not the park itself, which starts on Moresby/Lyell Islands well to the South. The office is next to the Haida Cultural Center which is a STELLAR museum, and there is a Carving Shed right behind it with poles and canoes. The park itself is fantastic, and most of it is pristine wilderness, and represents a major environmental and cultural victory, gained over 20 years ago. It's a world-class cultural and nature experience that you'll need an outfitter to help you access via boat, helicopter or floatplane.See more..
4.5Adams River Salmon Run(97 reviews) - Yearly Salmon migration and a sight to see Nature & Wildlife Areas
If you have never seen the annual Salmon Run this is the best place to view the best run in the world. Uplifting and sad at the same time, you know they're breeding but then dying. Great parking, and a short, great pathway to the viewing decks. You can't go wrong anywhere you happen to be. We saw wild bears feeding on the fish on the opposite side of the river. You're totally safe as they aren't interested in you only the fish. And they're across a fast moving river. Dress for light hiking as you're walking on a dirt path. It's not a long walk at all.See more..
4.0Manning Park Resort(81 reviews) - lovely provincial park Biking Trails • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails • Ski & Snowboard Areas • Kayaking & Canoeing
we loved being close to hiking and walking trails. Even though the restaurants were not running as usual because of Covid , we found the breakfast was excellent. We found the room in the lodge a bit noisy from doors closing etc. It was a clean average room, but served our purpose of just a one nighter on our road trip. The staff were all friendly and really doing the right sanitation for the restaurant and check in.See more..
I looked at the photos before visit and I had much lower expectations. Luckily we went on a Sunny day and the view at the top blew me away. It was a pretty short and easy hike too, just a few sets of stairs at the start. The hike has multiple entrances too so be sure to not park in a private entrance.See more..
Went in early December when eagles swarm to feed off the salmon. You could see a dozen in one tree alone. Due to Covid-19, my rafting trip was cancelled, so I hiked up along the river bank just past Fergies cafe. Gorgeous scenic area with lots of moss, fishermen, eagles and vultures. Beautiful afternoon just walking along the river. The cafe is a warm and pleasant follow up.See more..
Nice stop to have a picnic and walk the dog. Good parking and nice views of the lake with lots of bird activity. See more..
4.5Buntzen Lake(56 reviews) - Thank you BC Hydro!! Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Love love love buntzen lake! Lots of trails, gorgeous scenery, awesome dog park/beach and a cold lake to cool you off after hiking. Good for family, friends or a solo trip. It’s a busy place in the summer but open all year.See more..
I have sailed all over the world, and British Columbia is the best cruising area by far. The weather, in summer, is generally pleasant. The main cruising area, from Victoria to the Broughton Archipelago, is protected, with hundreds of islands and thousands of anchorages, many of which you might have to yourselves, even at the height of cruising season. The most accessible are the Gulf Islands, but the best area is Desolation Sound. You can get there in one very long day from Vancouver, or two easy days. Two long days from Victoria. The water is warm, especially in Pendrill Sound, the warmest water north of, well, it's warmer than most of California. Great scenery, open enough for sailing but protected enough to be safe. What's not to like?See more..
We live in Sorrento so we are able to visit often . The atmosphere there is wonderful and you know how much Shirley and Rob care for the donkeys . We discovered a great gift for our grandchildren is a sponsorship of a donkey or two., This comes in a package including a large picture of their own donkey. Our grandsons who are now young men enjoy their donkeys and visit every summer. They claim theyre coming to see Grandma and GrandadSee more..
5.0East Point(43 reviews) - Magical sunsets and popular whale-spotting location. Nature & Wildlife Areas
Great view of American islands and in particular, of majestic Mt Baker. It's a lovely walk through tall grassy terrain with the Heritage Centre (and light station) atop the edge but that was closed when we visited in July (likely due to Covid). You can walk along the sandstone beach shore at the bottom at low tide. Apparently orcas can be spotted here in the summer but we were told they came earlier this year, in June. Come back in the evening for the best sunset ever! There is a tiny parking lot at the end of Tumbo Channel Rd but you can park on the road. The trails are flat and easy for walking but do run alongside a cliff for part of it so be aware.See more..
4.5Squamish Estuary(43 reviews) - Gentle stroll with nature Nature & Wildlife Areas
The waterway trails are a terrific easy hike - family friendly for all ages. Trails are used by dog walkers, joggers, cyclists and - artists. Great to see people sketching 'en plein air'. Enjoyed the artistic fish and birds on the trees. See more..
4.0Balance Rock(37 reviews) - Worth a few minutes of your time Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
Its hardly the Grand Canyon or the Rockies, but if you are passing then it's worth a snap or two. Of course, we had been spoilt seeing many fabulous sites around Gwaii Hannus.See more..
4.0Whonnock Lake(36 reviews) - Celebration of Life Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
On July 19th 2019, our family, my two sons, my mother in law and many beloved friends and family held for my forever loved and beautiful wife, her celebration of life after an extremely unexpected and horrible turn of events that led to her passing on Saturday July 6th 2019. We rented this location and everyone involved made it as easy and smooth as possible considering what we were all going trough. The grounds are absolutely peaceful and extremely inviting and accommodating...See more..
The park trails and facilities are well maintained and the scenery is breathtaking! We stayed at Cathedral Lakes Lodge and loved the balance of rustic amenities with superb food and live entertainment, a true hidden gem.See more..
This place is magical. Whether rain or shine the trip up is spectacular. We take guests on a 3 or 4 day cruise. It never disappoimts. Deemed the most beautiful anchorage in the world!See more..
If you're looking for a quiet walk through the woods, with the call of birds and beautiful views, then this is the place for you! So close to everything, being right off Dollarton Hwy. Ponds and lookouts, so pretty. Bird watchers delight! See more..
I camped at Charlie Lake Provincial Park in July 2011 while en route from Alaska to Tennessee. Everything about the park is perfect for a traveler on the cheap. You get an elevated gravel pad with a table, access to outhouses and potable water, and it's a 10-minute walk to the lake, which is everything you ask for in a sub-arctic lake. The town of Fort St. John is about 15 minutes south on the highway, and they have all the modern conveniences. The visitor's center has free wifi, there is a selection of restaurants, a Safeway grocery store with a gas station, and there is a public swimming pool that offers showers for $2 if you're into showering. If you're planning a trip through the Great White North amd you're carrying your own hotel in the trunk of your car, this park is the perfect place to pitch it. See more..
Very well organized campground. I had a reservation and when I arrived my site # was posted on a list at the entry. Site was clean and manicured (empty fire pit, smooth gravel). Very large space with ample tree coverage and privacy. Hiking trail signage is well marked and the dog friendly beach to the lake was a plus! Will definitely camp here again :) See more..
It is really a good place to relax. The trail is not difficult. You can also cycle there. Of course, it is heaven for canoeing. But if you are not a fan, there’s still a lot to see, to do and to enjoy, just sitting by the river watching others canoeing : ) plus, the view on the way is also gorgeous. Already planned to go back with friends See more..
4.0Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary(25 reviews) - Nature, birds and peaceful walking in the heart of town. Nature & Wildlife Areas
The Delkatla Nature Sanctuary in Masset is located between the airport and downtown. Important for migratory birds the sanctuary has trails and many viewing towers around the perimeter allowing for great views of the Sanctuary. A dozen Sandhill Cranes were seen. Also warblers, eagles, geese and many others. There is a nature center on Trumpeter Drive open in the summer. Trails form a loop around the Sanctuary (6.5 km) and other trails branch off to the Masset Cemetary and the Beach.See more..
4.5Kettle River Recreation Area(23 reviews) - Float Down Kettle River Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
***IMPORTANT NOTICE*** Kettle River Recreation Area and Campground will be fully operational and open as usual on May 6th. The Campground and Day-Use Area was minimally affected by the Rock Creek Fire. Facilities: 113 campsites, 1 large group site, public beach and day-use area, playground, shower, flush toilets, sani-station. Location: 5 km north of Rock Creek on Highway 33. Kettle River Recreation Area is one of the largest and most popular destination family campgrounds in the Okanagan - Boundary Region. Located minutes from amenities in Rock Creek, it is only 45 minutes from Osoyoos and 90 minutes from Kelowna. Campers will want to bring their bikes and floaties! This park offers fantastic biking/hiking opportunities and access to the historic Trans Canada Trail network. A bike pump track was recently added and is a hit with kids of all ages. In the summer months, campers walk their tubes and floaties to the Kettle River that flows alongside the campground, while others enjoy basking on the sandy beaches and swimming in the river. The iconic Kettle River Trestle at the day-use serves as a beautiful backdrop for park users and is a great photo opportunity! Reservations are strongly recommended during peak season, however last-minute campers may be able to find a spot in July and August. Spring and Fall campers enjoy large, sun-filled sites in a peaceful, pristine setting. Firewood and ice are available for sale at the Host Site. Open from the first weekend in May through the last weekend in September.See more..
4.5Descanso Bay Regional Park(22 reviews) - Beautiful spot to explore minutes from the ferry terminal Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
My first trip to this lovely park and campground. The sights and beaches are beautiful. It is easy to walk around to take in all the beauty. It offers a handful of primitive campsites that would be lovely to tent at in peace. Quiet, serene, and beautiful. Wonderful local spot.See more..
4.5Duck Lake Protected Area(22 reviews) - Beautiful hiking in mixed conifer second growth Nature & Wildlife Areas
Great hiking. I was hoping for old growth, but did not really find it. We did find delightful, peaceful second or third growh mixed conifer trails that were well maintained and clearly marked. There were a few big old trees. Conectivity can be a challenge, so I recommend old-school map and navigation.See more..
4.0Giant Spruce Park(21 reviews) - Pretty park Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks • Forests
Giant Spruce Park is located on the shores of the Kitimat River flood plain. The remains of a previously registered "largest living Sitka Spruce in BC" can be found in the park. The tree measures 11.2 metres in circumference (36.7 feet) and once stood 50.32 metres tall (165 feet).See more..
4.5Winter Cove(21 reviews) - Paradise at ocean`s edge Nature & Wildlife Areas
My wife and I cycled to the park (which has biffies) and walked the beach to the point, returning by the trails, in love with Saturna, in love with the water`s edge paradise at Winter Cove. At the point we watched the tide sneaking through the thirty foot gap to the next island... then watched it turn... and become a mighty stream in the other direction, like the racing tide you see from the BC Ferry going through Active Pass. Except this time it;s just you and your sweetheart who are there to admire. We lay in the sun in tall grass and wildflowers, just feet away from the drop off to the ocean, admiring the view which included eagles, Roberts Bank some dozen miles away, and freighters. We drifted off to sleep, feeling safe and at peace, surrounded by beauty.See more..
4.5Burns Bog(21 reviews) - A daily walk Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
My experiences with the Bog are nothing short of spectacular. What a quiet getaway ( if there's not too many people around) to unwind and take in the beauty of nature. To the singing birds, the fresh air and peacefulness never disappoint me. I love walking both boardwalks while keeping an eye out for wildlife. I even go when it's raining. Well worth it for me as I'm only a five minute drive away. See more..
We drove up this side of the city and found this wonderful natural area. The area was very beautiful: the winding train track, Kamloops Lake, Thompson River. Great view, Wished we had more time to explore the trails.See more..
On a rainy day we walked up to the falls. It was a nice hike and the veil covered the rocks. Not many people. See more..
4.5Urban Safari Rescue Society(19 reviews) - An Animal Rescue Shelter with a difference Friday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
An incredible place to visit with the whole family! They rescue exotic animals and have hundreds and hundreds of different species. There is wildlife art on the walls, hundreds of mounted insects, and of course hundreds of animals. The people are great and really care about what they do. It is a very cool place. www.urbansafari.caSee more..
4.5Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park(18 reviews) - Nice place to clear the mind Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails • Forests
If your looking to go for a nice scenic walk this is a great place to go and it's children friendly the only downside is no dogs allowed other the that it's a beautiful place to check out. See more..
4.5Owl Orphaned Wildlife(17 reviews) - So interesting! They do great work Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas We went as a family for their annual open house. Saw all kinds or raptors like eagles, owls, falcons etc. Cool vendors and food trucks were there. We watched staff release a rehabilitated brown eagle on our visit. We learned so much and got to see the vets office as well. Very educational and great family activitiesSee more..
Although the driving trail was closed for the season; we walked to the lake..... It was a beautiful scenic walk with eagle and wolf sightings. The lake is larger than expected, I look forward to returning when the season is warmer. See more..
4.0Brae Island Regional Park(13 reviews) - Beautiful Area Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
Absolutely beautiful setting and area to visit/tour. The camping at Brae Island was amazing...........the park is very well maintained, staff are friendly and helpful. Touring through Fort Langley was a lovely experience, all the shops just made our day as well as the Farmers Market..................the list could go on for a long time.......... GREATSee more..
The only accessible natural waterfront in Salmon Arm that the city hasn’t destroyed (managed by SABNES for the Nature Trust), this 4KM stretch of level trail through the woods and grassy marshes is a delightful haven with lots of birds and lucky spottings of deer, moose and beavers. Easy to walk or cycle with dogs on a leash (except during nesting). Side boardwalks for bird and beaver sighting offer even more variety. Dandy place for every nature lover, much enjoyed by users of all ages.See more..
4.0Raptors Ridge(13 reviews) - Highly recommend Nature & Wildlife Areas
Just phenomenal, I could stay here all day. They kindly let us stay far more than the hour to watch the birds fly and feed without extra charge. You can tell how passionate Karen is for these animals, I can't say enough good things about this place. See more..
Fairly quiet and easy trail ! It took us about 30 minutes to get to the falls. Halfway through the trail there is an large opening, almost like a beach. It's worth to stop if you want to just lay out and have a snack etc. I'd recommend coming early if you don't want a big crowd. We were just leaving the trail at around 11:30am and a huge crowd was coming !See more..
4.5Old Mill Site Park(12 reviews) - Give yourself time to enjoy the tides, views and sunsets Nature & Wildlife Areas
A beautiful location at any time of day. Remember it's coastal so you have the privilege of enjoying tidal waters, mudflats and the serenity of the water. This provides beautiful trails around the inlet, and it's gorgeous at sunset! Most of the trails are really easy to walk, with stepped areas and plenty of benches to relax and enjoy the view. Definitely worth the time (and there's free parking on Murray for 4hrs!!)See more..
