San Josef River Heritage Park

San Josef River Heritage Park, Vancouver Island, BC
San Josef River Heritage Park, Vancouver Island, BC, photo by Bud Logan

The San Josef River Heritage Park is a nice little campground just off the road and only a short distance before the Cape Scott Trail parking lot. On your way in, you will be driving on active logging roads, so please use your lights and plenty of caution.

The campsite is run by Doug. The camping fees are the same as all BC Parks are charging at Cape Scott, in 2015 it was $10 per night per adult. There is a cash-only policy here.

San Josef River Heritage Park, Vancouver Island, BC
San Josef River Heritage Park, Vancouver Island, BC, photo by Bud Logan

The San Josef River Heritage Park is such a beautiful little place. There are plenty of spots to camp, most are equipped with tables and fire pits. There is no water here, so bring in what you need. For dishes and washing, you can get water from the creek located on-site.

There is a good chance of seeing black bears, cougars, and more recently wolves on the north island. BC Parks is advising that dogs are not welcome in the park. I believe this has to do with the influx of wolves to the area in recent years. The only facilities in either Doug’s place or in the park are outhouses, I do suggest you bring your own toilet paper.

The campground is up the San Josef River from San Josef Bay, there is a small boat launch here for kayaks, canoes, and car topper boats. The river is tidal at this point so plan on a high tide launch and return.

San Josef Heritage Park
At the Cape Scott Park Boat Ramp
On the brink of adventure!
Hiking, Group Camping, Tenting, RV Parking, River Access
Doug DesJarlais 250-288-3682 Box 38, Holberg, BC V0N 1Z0

A message from Bud

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3 thoughts on “San Josef River Heritage Park”

  1. We are planing on doing the cape Scott trail In 2 weeks and was wondering who has the compound that we can camp at after and also store our vehicle with our boats on it wile on the trail for a fee thanks for your time hope to here back soon

    1. I have a post from the campsite. dated 2024 with phone number, hope it helps.

      San Josef Heritage Park
      At the Cape Scott Park Boat Ramp
      On the brink of adventure!
      Hiking, Group Camping, Tenting, RV Parking, River Access
      Doug DesJarlais 250-288-3682 Box 38, Holberg, BC V0N 1Z0

  2. Is this Doug Desjarlais campground I worked in Winter Harbor years ago and Doug was there, if so hi doug I am Chris Lee I was a friend of Scott Johnson who cook at the Ibis way back when.

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