Sydney Inlet Provincial Park

About This Park

Sydney Inlet Provincial Park contains one of the finest examples of a fjord on Vancouver Island, and is a perfect wilderness area for sea kayaking and pleasure boating. Located in northern Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island, the park protects old-growth Sitka spruce and Douglas fir forests, portions of the Sydney River and its estuary. This estuary supports four species of salmon, including a notable population of Chinook. A variety of rare and unusual flora and fauna can also be found in this undeveloped, pristine wilderness park.

Park Size: 2,774 hectares (2,083 ha upland, 691 ha foreshore)

Location and Maps

Location Map

The park is situated in northern Clayoquot Sound between Hesquiat Lake and Pretty Girl Lake on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Sydney Inlet Park is accessible by float plane or boat. Boaters can reference marine chart #3674 for more information on this area. Nearby communities include: Tofino, Ucluelet, Hotsprings Village, Ahousat

Maps and Brochures

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

Park Area Map (pdf)
Clayquot Area Brochure and Map (pdf)

Nature and Culture

History - This area was identified for protection in the Clayoquot Sound Land-Use Decision in 1995.
Cultural Heritage - This park contains Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation heritage sites.
Conservation - Sydney Inlet is one of the best examples of a fjord on Vancouver Island. The Sydney River and its estuary support four species of salmon, including a notable population of Chinook. Old-growth Sitka spruce and Douglas fir forests are also protected within the park, as well as a variety of rare and unusual flora and fauna.

Management Planning

Management Planning Information

Approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan.

Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

There are kayaking opportunities at this park. Canoeing is not recommended.

Fishing

The waters of Clayoquot Sound may contain a variety of fish species, including salmon, rockfish, halibut and lingcod. Fishing is permitted as per provincial and federal fishing regulations. All anglers should check the current regulations issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada prior to fishing. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Hunting

Portions of this park are open to hunting for specific species. Hunters must have valid licences and tags. Please refer to current printed Hunting and Trapping Regulations and Synopsis publication for closures and regulations.

Swimming

There is no designated swimming area at this park however opportunities exist for ocean swimming. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.

Facilities Available at this Park

Campfires

While small fires are allowed, we encourage visitors to conserve the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using stoves instead. If you do have a fire use small pieces of wood that will burn completely. Build your fires below the high tide mark. Never leave your fire unattended and practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics.

Walk-In/Wilderness Camping

There are no designated campsites at this park, however random wilderness camping is allowed. No facilities are provided and there is no fee. Please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics.

Winter Camping

Sydney Inlet Park is accessible year round; there is no winter backcountry camping fee.