Moorecroft Regional Park in Nanoose Bay

I’ve been to Moorecroft Regional Park more times than I can count, and it’s one of those places that never seems to lose its charm. Tucked away in Nanoose Bay, it’s my go-to when I want an easy, peaceful walk that still feels a little bit special.

The trails are well-marked and wind through a mix of forest and open meadow before leading you down to the shoreline, where you’re greeted with those classic ocean views that never get old.

There are picnic spots, quiet little coves, Gary Oak meadows, large Douglas firs and just enough variety to make each visit feel a bit different, even if, like me, you’ve walked it dozens of times.

It’s simple, scenic, and consistently peaceful… which is probably why it’s stayed in my regular rotation for so long.

Quick Facts

• Park Size: 35 hectares
• Park Features: Oceanfront park with beautiful walking trails and grassy areas.
• Trail Length: Several trails with varying lengths
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hazards: The park is gated. Please obey posted times, or your vehicle will be locked in.
• Facilities: Pit toilets
• Dog Friendly!

A Much-Loved Park by All

Nanoose Bay Elementary uses Moorecroft Park as a prime location for many class field trips. Each time I joined one of these excursions as a parent chaperone, I would tell my child, “Do you know how lucky you are?”

The kids walk the trails to try and spot owls, eagles and many other birds. They climb the rocks, draw pictures of the ocean, and search for butterflies on the rocky knolls. And, of course, beachcombing for crabs and other sea creatures is the most popular activity. The day ends with a picnic in the meadow under the shade of arbutus, oak and maple trees while watching dragonflies flit about.

Yes, Moorecroft Regional Park is truly a wonderment for all ages. And it's the absolute perfect place to while away the day.

A Bit of History

In partnership with The Nature Trust of BC, the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) acquired Moorecroft Regional Park in 2011 from the United Church of Canada. Before that time, it was known to most locals as Camp Moorecroft. The United Church and its original owner, Miss Gertrude Moore, operated the camp.

Originally from Toronto, Miss Moore came out west in 1927 to become a PE director at the Vancouver YMCA. She later oversaw women's physical education at UBC. While at UBC, Moore also purchased and operated a girls' camp in Nanoose Bay. The camp was named Moorecroft after her family's homestead in Ontario.

Moore operated the all-girls camp for 20 successful years. By the end of the summer of 1954, Moore's health was beginning to fail. She decided to contact Rev. Moses to discuss the future of her property. In 1955, the United Church of Canada bought the property and ran it as a summer camp. A few years later, it ran as a year-round camp for retreats, schools and community groups.

Of the 27 buildings that originally made up Camp Moorecroft, today, all that's left is the boathouse and a beautiful 35-hectare oceanfront park for all to enjoy.

For a deep dive into the history of Moorecroft Regional Park, I encourage you to read this PDF:

Moorecroft Camp: A Look Back, compiled by Marilyn Huffman

Highlights of Moorecroft Regional Park

The park is popular for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, from walking and nature appreciation to paddling, hiking, and scuba diving.

Here are a few not-to-be-missed spots and activities within the park.

Vesper Point – a beautiful trail leads out to this rocky point, giving you an unobstructed view of the snow-capped coastal mountains. During spring, the trees bloom with delicate white flowers, adding even more to your surroundings.

Cook's Point – Follow the rocky beach past the boathouse building to find the perfect spot to look out over Second Bay, and watch the world go by. You'll often see a Great Blue Heron perched on the rocks in front of Second Bay.

Wildlife Viewing – The park provides habitat for many species. A few more common species include Eagles, Black-Tailed deer, hummingbirds, Herons, ducks, and other waterfowl. It's not uncommon to see harbour seals and sea lions out on the ocean.

The Meadow – This area offers a lovely spot for picnicking. There are 3 to 4 picnic benches available, but the large grassy meadow is also great for a large blanket, or perhaps a field game.

Skipsey Lake – Follow the trail to this small lake (more of a swampy pond), and you may find a few of Moorecroft's rare species: the Northern Red-Legged Frog and the Western Painted Turtle. Look in the water, and you will see a few salamanders.

Walk the Trails – Each time I go to Moorecroft Regional Park, I discover something new (and I have been there a lot). Enjoy the many stroller-friendly paths to see what you can find!

Getting There

Moorecroft Park is located at 1563 Stewart Road in Nanoose Bay. Stewart Road is accessed off Northwest Bay Road.

If you are coming from Highway 19, take the Northwest Bay Road exit (at the Petro Canada in Nanoose).

Turn right onto Stewart Road and follow it to the very end. Watch for signs along the way.

Other Nanoose Trails Worth Checking Out

• Double Waterfall (member-only post)
• Notch Hill
• Enos Lake

Why you should go

If you’re looking for an easy, peaceful escape that still delivers those classic Vancouver Island views, Moorecroft Regional Park is hard to beat. It’s one of those great spots where you can wander through forest, pass open meadows, and end up along a quiet stretch of shoreline, all in one short outing.

Whether you’ve got an hour to spare or want to linger over a picnic by the water, it’s the kind of place that fits effortlessly into your day. Add in the well-maintained trails, ocean views, and that calm, uncrowded feel, and it’s easy to see why so many of us locals keep coming back.