San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve

Highlights in this ecological reserve

San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve was established to conserve a representative sample of the lower alluvial forest communities on the San Juan River flood plain. Also to protect the tooth-leaved monkey flower, which is a rare plant known from nowhere else in Canada.

Ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems, and support research and education. They are not intended for outdoor recreation. However, this ecological reserve is open to the public for non-destructive activities like hiking, nature observation and photography. Consumptive activities like hunting, fishing, camping, or foraging are prohibited. Motorized vehicles are not allowed.

Know before you go

Advisories

Review the detailed guides under visit responsibly for more information on staying safe and preserving our natural spaces.

Visit responsibly

Follow these guides to ensure your activities are safe, respectful, and ecologically friendly:

Maps and location

Any maps listed are for information only. They may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.

San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve map [PDF]

Getting there

Located 5km north east of Port Renfrew.

About this ecological reserve

Biogeoclimatic zone:Coastal Western Hemlock

Terrestrial ecosection:Juan de Fuca Strait,Windward Island Mountains

Marine ecosection:Juan de Fuca Strait

A detailed description of this ecological reserve is available to support education and research.

San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve detailed description [PDF]

Research and educational activities require a permit.

Apply for a permit

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.

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