Recreational Lakes on Central and Northern Vancouver Island

While Vancouver Island is renowned for its oceanside beaches, it is also home to numerous lakes of varying size. Recreational opportunities abound for fishing, canoeing, boating, swimming and hiking at lakes all across Vancouver Island, but the central to north island lakes are not as well known. Here are 5 of the most popular, starting at the north end.

Alice Lake, Link River Regional Park

Alice Lake:
Known for excellent fishing and wilderness camping, Alice Lake is a great recreational lake. Accessed of Hwy 30 (to Port Alice) and then on gravel Forest Service Roads, Alice Lake offers a wilderness lake experience that will satisfy the craving to get away from it all. Link River Regional Park is a popular site for camping (24 sites), launching boats, having a picnic and playing on the beach.

Nimpkish Lake:
Just south of Port McNeill, this lake is home to a Provincial Park known for rugged wilderness and offers good fresh water fishing. What it is most famous for, however, is for being one of the most challenging lakes for windsurfing in BC. It has become one of the top destinations for serious windsurfers in the province and can provide hours of entertainment for those who like to watch the colourful sails whip across the lake.

McIvor Lake:
Actually part of the Lower Campbell Lake water system, McIvor Lake is the place to be for Campbell Riverites in the summer. With a boat launch, three great beach areas and lots of room to spread out, this lake is a very popular place to hang out.

Comox Lake:
Popular with locals as a hang out as well as outdoor enthusiasts, Comox Lake offers something for everyone. From picnic areas to hiking and biking trails and good fishing, this glacier-fed lake provides hours of recreation. Located near Strathcona Provincial Park, the lake is most readily accessed through the town of Cumberland, near Courtenay.

Westwood Lake:
on the outskirts of Nanaimo this lake sits at the foot of Mt. Benson. With a good hiking trail around the lake and a beach with a lifeguard, Westwood Lake is a popular spot in the summer. The lake also has good fishing, although only boats with electric motors or no motors are allowed.

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