Hemer Provincial Park

Located on Holden Lake south of Nanaimo, this forested park is popular with local residents, who mainly come here to explore the extensive trail system. The marsh area at Hemer Provincial Park is also a favourite destination for bird watchers and ornithologists. A viewing platform over the marsh, approximately 1 km from the parking lot, provides the opportunity to observe various types of ducks, Trumpeter swans, Bald eagles and turkey vultures, as well as beavers.

Approximately 11 kilometres of easy walking trails weave through the park along Holden Lake and through the marsh areas. The trails are forested, primarily with mature coastal Douglas fir, red alder and big-leaf maple. Trails are not marked but are easily identifiable and well maintained. Hemer Park provides day-use opportunities at Holden Lake, a peaceful setting for paddlers, boaters and anglers.

Stay Safe

• Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park. All surface water must be boiled, filtered or treated before consumption.

Special Notes

• Dogs must be kept on a leash and under control at all times to protect nesting birds and other wildlife.
• Lock all vehicles and remove valuables.
• Campfires are not permitted.

• Location Map

• Hemer Provincial Park Map [PDF]

• History: Hemer Park was a gift from John and Violet Hemer of Cedar, BC in 1981. Homesteaded in 1860, the park still contains remains of the farmstead, offering a look at the region’s farming history. The Pacific Coal Company railway traveled along the shores of the lake; their abandoned right of way now forms a trail called Heritage Way.
• Conservation: The forest is a mixture of coniferous and deciduous trees including second-growth Douglas fir, red alder and big-leaf maple. The marsh is an important wetland habitat that supports a wide diversity of specifics. Holden Lake is home to trout, minnows and sculpins. The lake is also one of only two lakes on Vancouver Island that contain the Pea Mouth Chubb. This fish spawns in the creek between the lake and the marsh at the end of April.

• Management Planning Information
• The Approved Master Plan for Hemer Provincial Park
  • PART ONE of the Approved Master Plan – pages 1 – 33 [PDF]
  • PART TWO of the Approved Master Plan – pages 34 – 83 [PDF]
  • PART THREE of the Approved Master Plan – pages 84 – 122 – Appendices [PDF]
    Disclaimer:
    This is not the original management planning product. This document has been scanned from the original format of the plan. It may contain some formatting changes, however the content is consistent with the original.

Canoeing

Fishing

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Pets on Leash

Wildlife Viewing

Picnic Areas

Pit or Flush Toilets