Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park?
What makes it 89% Kids-Friendly: Kids get a nature playground, shallow swimmer-friendly beach, picnic shelters, and strollerable trails, plus washrooms and water taps, but no lifeguards means parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- No Entrance Fee: Free access to trails, beaches and playground all year round.
- Multiple Washrooms: Restrooms at each beach and near picnic shelters for quick breaks.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade at Beaches: Few trees on Beaver Beach; bring umbrellas or pop-up tents.
- Peak-Season Crowds: Busy weekends can fill picnic shelters and parking lots quickly.
What is Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park?
- A 1,100-hectare regional park encompassing Elk Lake and Beaver Lake on Victoria’s eastern urban fringe
- A mixed Douglas-fir and Garry oak woodland interspersed with wetlands, beaches and a continuous 10 km packed-gravel trail loop
- A conservation area featuring a nature centre, covered picnic shelters and lakeshore support facilities
What is so special about Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park for with kids?
- Nature playground sparks creative climbing and balancing.
- Shallow sandy shore at Beaver Beach perfect for young swimmers.
- Covered picnic shelter at Filter Beds keeps meals dry and comfy.
- Family canoe rental offers gentle paddling and island exploration.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy the playground, beach and a picnic without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Nature Playground at Hamsterly Beach:
Let kids climb logs, balance on beams and explore natural play zones.
Tip: Arrive early to beat crowds and bring hats for shade on the play structures.
Swimming and Sand Play at Beaver Beach:
Kids can wade in shallow water and build sandcastles on the sandy shore.
Tip: Pack a bucket and spade; rinse off at nearby washrooms to avoid sand in the car.
Family Picnic at Filter Beds Group Site:
Use the covered shelter and accessible tables for a lakeside meal.
Tip: Reserve a spot online if you visit on a weekend; bring a blanket for extra space.
Canoe Rental around Beaver Lake Islands:
Rent a tandem canoe to explore small islands and calm coves.
Tip: Book 3-hour rental in advance and include older kids in paddling for a shared adventure.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
- Start with the Playground: Visit Hamsterly Beach first to let kids burn energy before lunch.
- Use the Filter Beds Trail: Take a stroller-friendly walk here for a calm break from the beach.
Reviews of Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Tere Arboleda
It's a lovely lake with a good playground for kids. They have picnic tables. Pets are not allowed on the beach and picnic areas. They have clean washrooms.
David Brown
Despite being right next to the highway, Elk/Beaver Lake is a great place to come for an accessible forest walk very close to town. It's dog friendly, with many areas that are good for off leash. In fact, the people who bring their dogs here are great. It is super rare to run into an aggressive dog or problematic dog owner. Another great thing about this park is if you walk or jog around the entir...
Chris Bunner
That's what rocks about Victoria. You can live downtown and drive 15 minutes and be in the middle of a dense beautiful Forest. Elk Beaver lake regional Park is amazing for just going for a simple walk, to taking photos, or bringing your dogs to have a good play and run. Plenty of parking and easy accessibility make this groovy place a no-brainer.
Dr Yaseen Sheikh
I went on 10k trail of Elk and Beaver Lake. Started off early in morning on Sunday and completed the hike in a total of almost 3 hrs. Enjoyed every moment of the trail. Although we did just the hiking and walking around the lake but there are many other recreational activities that one can do such as cycling (only in multi-use trails), horse riding, swimming (in designated spots), canoeing and fis...
Booyaka Stubbs (ExplorewithStubbs.com)
Yet another great place to walk, run or ride in this beautiful province. We have been living on the island for a month now and have found all these parks to be in spectacular condition and well maintained. A bit cold yesterday but nothing that would interfere with our family outing. The island has so much to offer in terms of exercise, my kids would not be involved or interested in these types of ...
When is the best time to visit Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park (Victoria, Canada)?
Summer is best for swimming and playground fun; bring insect repellent for mosquitoes at dusk. In spring watch for muddy trails and wear boots. In fall enjoy colorful leaves along the loop trail.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 3-hour tandem canoe rental | CAD 40 |
| Self-packed picnic | CAD 0 |
| Park parking fee | CAD 0 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 40 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Address: 5267 Patricia Bay Hwy, Victoria, BC, Canada
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About Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 250-360-300010 BEST nearby Activities
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