There are a number of historically significant landmarks in and around the City of Campbell River. Many of these landmarks are associated with significant City milestones throughout our history.
Ripple Rock
Ripple Rock is a marine hazard within the Seymour Narrows, near Campbell River. It is responsible for damaging or sinking more than 20 large vessels. It has done the same for at least 100 smaller vessels. Before it was destroyed in 1958, Ripple Rock claimed at least 114 lives.
Read more about Ripple Rock from the Campbell River Museum
Historic Pier Street
The first commercial wharf in Campbell River was located along Pier Street. Union Steamships stopped there to load and unload freight and passengers. The first barbershop, the first general store and the first café were also located along this stretch.
Today, Historic Pier Street extends from the Museum at Campbell River to the tip of Robert V. Ostler Park. It includes such historical locations as:
- the third Willows Hotel, built in 1901 by Frederick and Charles Thulin (now the site of the Bargain Shop)
- the former Courthouse, Police Station and Jail (later became Pier House B&B)
- the Iaci Block (now the Foreshore Building)
Along Pier Street, there are many interesting shops to browse through, and community events are often held at Ostler Park. On Sundays in the summer, the Pier Street Association holds a farmers market.
Learn more about how the Pier Street Association is highlighting the area's history
Big Rock
Big Rock, a 10-metre tall glacial erratic, is just south of the 50th parallel. It can be found along the Sea Walk in Campbell River. According to native folklore, the rock was originally a grizzly bear that claimed he could jump from the mainland to Vancouver Island. The Great Spirit told the bear he would turn to stone if he touched the water. The bear jumped across the strait and reached the island, but his back paw landed in the water. As warned, the bear turned to stone.
Painters Lodge
Painter's Lodge is a sport fishing icon. It opened in the 1920s with a few rustic cabins operated by Ned and June Painter on Campbell River Spit. Ned Painter was also associated with the famous Tyee Club and built wooden rowboats that he rented and sold to anglers.
In 1938, the Painters moved their operation to the oceanfront, where the resort now stands. June Painter worked steadfastly to ensure its success, and after ten years in their new location, the family sold the lodge. Tragically, in 1985, fire destroyed the historic lodge and its irreplaceable memorabilia.
Before long, Painter's Lodge was rebuilt. Over the years, Painter's, as it is fondly called, has hosted a number of Hollywood celebrities including John Wayne, Bing Crosby and Bob Hope, and many others aspiring to join the legendary Tyee Club.
The Tyee Club
The Tyee Club of British Columbia began in 1924 with a group of anglers. This group returned to Campbell River each year in pursuit of the elusive "Tyee" — a Chinook salmon, 30 pounds or larger.
Willows Hotel
A Campbell River landmark during the town's early years, the Willows Hotel served both an international sports fishing clientele and the rough and ready loggers from isolated camps. The Willows Hotel's history is on display as a permanent exhibition at the Campbell River Museum.
Visit the Willows Hotel exhibit
Discovery Fishing Pier
Address: 655 Island Highway
The Discovery Fishing Pier is Canada's first salt water fishing pier. Located next to the Government Wharf, it extends 150 feet from the shore and spans 600 feet. Rent fishing equipment, or bring your own, and enjoy a day at the pier with ice cream and fish and chips.
Elk Falls Provincial Park
Just six kilometres outside the City on Highway 28 you'll find Elk Fall Provincial Park. This 1087 hectare park features great views of the canyon and 25 metre waterfalls. You can sight-see, hike, picnic, camp and fish at Elk Falls.
Strathcona Park
Strathcona Park is the oldest provincial park in BC, and home to 500,000 acres of wilderness. The park features many hiking trails, kayaking and two provincial campgrounds.