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Ruckle Provincial Park adventures

Ruckle Provincial Park Adventures

Ruckle Provincial Park is a coastal park on Salt Spring Island known for its scenic seaside camping, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history, offering excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, and beachcombing.

2325
Acres Protected
9
Miles of Trails
Approx. 30,000
Annual Visitors
1960
Year Established

About Ruckle Provincial Park

 

Ruckle Provincial Park, located on the southeastern tip of Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, covers a diverse area of forested land, rocky shorelines, meadows, and marine coastline along the Strait of Georgia. The park’s ecosystem is characterized by coastal Douglas-fir forests, Garry oak meadows, and saltwater intertidal zones supporting a variety of plant and animal species. It is well known for its cultural significance with historical farm structures preserved from the late 19th century, reflecting early settler life. Visitors can explore a network of trails that traverse forests, meadows, and rugged beaches, providing opportunities to spot bald eagles, herons, sea otters, and deer. The park’s camping facilities, including waterfront sites, allow overnight stays with stunning ocean views and easy beach access. For hikers, the park offers both short shoreline walks and longer forested routes. Ruckle also supports fishing and kayaking along its sheltered bays and tide pools. Its remote location combined with well-maintained facilities and natural beauty make it a top destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor recreation and cultural heritage on the Southern Gulf Islands. The area is cared for with a focus on preserving fragile Garry oak ecosystems and intertidal habitat, making it an important conservation site as well as a popular recreational spot.

Highlights

Highlight

Historic Ruckle Farm site with heritage buildings and farming history

Highlight

Coastal Douglas-fir and Garry oak ecosystems supporting unique flora and fauna

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Rocky shorelines and sandy coves ideal for tide pooling and beachcombing

Highlight

Waterfront campsites with panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia

Notable Natural Features

Ruckle Heritage Farm

A historic farmstead featuring original buildings dating back to the late 1800s, offering insight into early settler agriculture on Salt Spring Island.

Garry Oak Meadows

Rare Garry oak ecosystems within the park support wildflowers and insect species unique to the region.

Seawall and Rocky Shoreline

The rocky coastal areas provide excellent tide pooling, beachcombing, and scenic views of nearby islands and marine life.