BC Parks Foundation

Environmental Education in Vancouver Island's Provincial Parks

Whether you're a camper, a teacher or just out for a stroll, don't miss out on the amazing opportunities to learn and experience the magic of parks offered at our Nature Houses.

Goldstream Nature House

Open Wed - Sunday, 9:30am - 4:00pm

Re-opening March 7th, 2025!

This spring, we are excited to offer school programs at Goldstream Park, hosted by our Discover Parks Ambassadors. Join us at the Goldstream Nature House on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from March 19 – May 16 for three unique, one-hour programs: Junior Explorers, Wildlife Detectives, and Eco-Stewards. Public programs are also available on Saturdays and Sundays! Follow the link here to visit our DiscoverParks.ca online booking portal.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors visit Goldstream Park to experience the magic of this park. The Goldstream Nature House with it's staff, volunteers and exhibits provides visitors with a deeper connection and in-depth learning opportunity for all that they experience at Goldstream.  Whether you are a teacher, student, community group leader or visitor in the park, the Goldstream Nature House has lots to offer.

Don't forget to visit the giftshop and make a donation - all proceeds go directly back to the Nature House to keep the doors open and education programs happening.

With programming designed to inspire, engage and entertain, the Nature House is where the next generation of environmental stewardship is fostered.  Visitors have the opportunity to learn about responsible salmon biology and ecology, local flora and fauna, and experience all the recreational opportunities that our parks provide.

A LOOK BACK: Fall 2024 we had four Discover Park Ambassadors welcoming and engaging with groups, schools and visitors who wanted to learn more about the salmon run, check out the report on how it went!

Rathtrevor Beach Nature House

The Nature House is open from June-August - See you in Summer 2025!

We opened the doors of the Rathtrevor Beach Nature House in the summer of 2023 for the first time since September 2019. Park Visitors were able to meet with our Discover Park Ambassadors, ask questions about the park and participate in the many programs offered Thursday through Sunday in the park. 

This past summer, the Discover Parks Ambassadors greeted over 3000 park visitors into the Nature House and offered over 100 educational programs. We look forward to opening the doors again in summer 2025!

Check out activities offered at this park on the Rathtrevor Beach Park Page. 

Miracle Beach Nature House

Closed for the 2024 season - see you in summer 2025!

Updated operating hours posted here.

In 1959, Miracle Beach Nature House was established in the form of a single tent staffed by one naturalist. It became the second of its kind in a BC Park, and provided park visitors with the opportunity to participate in both indoor and outdoor activities that educated them about local flora and fauna. Over the years, the Nature House has evolved into a permanent building that continues to educate and enthral visitors of all ages.

Inside the Nature House, visitors can view preserved specimens, informative displays, and beautiful murals by local artists. Two new touchscreen kiosks provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the area’s history, geography, and biodiversity in an interactive audio-visual experience. For younger visitors, there is a small library of books which can be borrowed, an area for arts and crafts, and sensory activities like the mystery box. The Nature House also has a selection of snacks available for purchase.

During the summer, Jerry’s Rangers activities, special guest speakers, trivia nights, and movie nights are held regularly in the nearby amphitheatre! Upcoming events will be posted on the Miracle Beach Park Page.

Entry to the Nature House and participation in all activities is free, however donations are always appreciated!