DESCANSO BAY PROVINCIAL PARK

One of the two oyster bays

Oyster Bay

Mussels clinging to the rocks

Vanocuver-bound BC Ferry

Low tide shows the sandy beach

Trail leading to the campsite

MV Quinsam ferries passengers and vehicles to and from Nanaimo to Gabriola Island.

Duke Point as seen from Descanso Bay Campground

Sunset at Descanso Bay

One of the 32 campsites in the park

Two frolicking Orcas or killer whales near the ferry terminal

Formerly known as the Gabriola Campground, the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) second regional campground renamed it Descanso Bay Provincial Park in 2002. It was acquired by the RDN following a generous donation by the Coastal Community Credit Union. It is located at 595 Taylor Bay Road less than 5 minute drive from the BC ferry terminal. It offers 32 great camping sites on a beautiful 10 hectares oceanfront property. There are many activities available such as kayaking, picnicking, hiking and tent/rv camping. There are three coves that are sandy at low tides and offer abundant oysters and mussels. Descanso Bay also offered wooded campsites. Firewood can be purchased from  a small convenience store which is located at the check-in shelter  at the park's entrance. It is opened year-round and the rates are very reasonable. I recommend making a reservation especially during the busy summer season. There is a small boat and kayak launch and day-use areas overlooking the shellfish coves. Campers and visitors can explore the seafront, watch the ferry boats go by and marvel at the beautiful view of downtown Nanaimo and Mount Benson . The wooded trails in the regional park connect to the adjacent Cox Community Park. Descanso Bay is the only public campground with forested tent and rv sites in Gabriola Island. However, there are no public showers or running water available. There are pit toilets and artesian wells with potable water.