Koksilah River Park is seven kilometres west of Shawnigan Lake on southern Vancouver Island. BC Parks describes an undeveloped park in the Vancouver Island Forest Reserve, adjacent to the Koksilah River and Koksilah River Canyon.
Renfrew Road, a logging road, provides access to the park.
Koksilah River Park is a day-use river and forest destination for people who want rustic routes, swimming, fishing, paddling, and a picnic near canyon scenery. BC Parks says the park is used mainly on weekends by southern Vancouver Island residents who come to hike and enjoy the river viewscape.
There are no developed trails, but there are existing routes that lead through the forest and down to the river. Swimming is available, though there is no designated swimming area and no lifeguards. Canoeing and kayaking are listed, and fishing is permitted in the Koksilah River under provincial and federal regulations.
The park is intentionally simple. Camping and campfires are not allowed, and horseback riding is not permitted on park trails, although horseback opportunities exist adjacent to the park.
Plan around rustic hiking routes, river picnicking, Koksilah River views, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, licensed fishing, road cycling, and low-impact photography in forest and canyon settings.
Keep pets leashed and out of beach areas and park buildings. Nearby communities include Shawnigan Lake, Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay, and Duncan. Bicycles must keep to roadways, and helmets are mandatory. Camping and campfires are prohibited, and horseback riding is not permitted on park trails.
