A favourite destination on Vancouver Island is the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, which straddles the Little Qualicum River and incorporates the entire southern shore of Cameron Lake. There are numerous trails, picnic areas, and 93 well-maintained campsites.
Waterfalls tumble down rocky canyons in a rainforest setting, framed by giant, first-growth trees, at this park, one of the prettiest on Vancouver Island. This river, with its various parks, canyons, and waterfalls, is one of the nicest hiking areas on the central island. I never miss a chance to take a walk here.
The falls, beautiful canyon side trails, and picnic areas make Little Qualicum Falls a very popular family recreation destination. A series of hiking trails runs through the park, giving incredible views of the falls and river, plus providing access to the upper and lower falls.
Cameron Lake is one of those great lakes that are good for camping, swimming, and fishing, as well as sailboarding. Across the lake from the highway, you can see the Cameron Lake Trestle, plus incredible views. Continue past the other end of the lake, and you are at Cathedral Park, where you can see giant Island trees from a series of trails.
The Little Qualicum Falls campground and day-use area are located 19 km west of Parksville on the Port Alberni road. Cameron Lake is located 4 km past the campground. Cathedral Grove is just at the end of Cameron Lake. You could spend the whole day hiking in the area; the river has so much to offer. There is plenty of wildlife here as well; you could see black bears, Roosevelt elk, blacktail deer, and possibly a cougar or wolf as well. The birdlife here is pretty awesome and quite varied.