Robert V. Ostler Park

On the shores of the picturesque Discovery Passage in the heart of Campbell River lies Robert W. Ostler Park — one of the most beloved vacation spots for both locals and travelers alike. This green gem, often simply called "Foreshore," is a classic coastal park where urban comfort meets the rugged natural beauty that Canada is famous for.

The park is famous for its panoramic views of Quadra Island and the Georgia Strait. It features immaculate lawns, comfortable benches for watching passing vessels, and a rocky beach where you can feel the breath of the ocean. For active recreation, there is a modern playground and a paved promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls.

As part of the historic Pier Street area, Robert W. Ostler Park is not only a natural site but also an important cultural space. With all the necessary infrastructure, including picnic areas and public amenities, it has become the heart of the city's social life, regularly hosting holidays and festivals.

If you need to book a space for an event or clarify infrastructure details, you can use the city's official resources. The park is a public space open to everyone.

There is something for everyone at Robert W. Ostler Park. The main draw for visitors is the paved Seawalk, which is pleasant for strolling or morning jogs while admiring the passing ferries and cruise ships. If you are lucky, you might see majestic bald eagles or herons hunting at the water's edge.

Excellent conditions have been created for families with children: a modern jungle gym and spacious fields where you can fly kites or play ball. Those seeking a quieter getaway can settle in at one of the picnic tables or simply relax on a bench, enjoying the ocean breeze and the view of the snow-capped mountain peaks on the horizon.

The totem poles installed in the park create a special atmosphere, serving as a reminder of the rich heritage of the region's Indigenous peoples. On Sundays during the summer, the park comes alive with a farmers' market, and during public holidays such as Canada Day, it hosts grand fireworks displays and city-wide celebrations. The park is also very dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for walks with pets.

The park is located in the heart of Campbell River, directly along the Island Highway (BC-19A). Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot from most hotels and cafes in the downtown area, especially if your route takes you through the historic Pier Street.

For those who prefer a private vehicle, there is ample parking on-site, making the park a convenient stop during a trip across Vancouver Island. Cyclists will also appreciate the location's accessibility: the well-maintained Seawalk promenade connects the park with the local museum and marinas.

The city's public transit also serves the area, and its proximity to the ferry terminal connecting the city to Quadra Island makes the park an excellent place to wait for a departure. If you are staying in outlying areas, you can use a local taxi; the ride from the center takes only a few minutes.

This scenic spot was previously known as Foreshore Park, but it was later renamed in honor of a prominent local resident. Robert W. Ostler (Bob Ostler) served as the Mayor of Campbell River from 1983 to 1990. It was under his leadership that the city underwent a significant transformation: the airport and downtown were expanded, and the Tidemark Theatre and the famous Discovery Fishing Pier were built.

The park grounds are part of the historic Pier Street zone. This was the city's first commercial center, where as early as 1901, a pier, the first Willows hotel, a store, and a courthouse appeared. Creating the park required significant shoreline restoration work to transform the rocky coast into a pleasant recreational area.

Interestingly, in 1983, during Ostler's mayoralty, Campbell River became a sister city to the Japanese city of Ishikari. Bob Ostler himself became an honorary citizen of Ishikari, highlighting his contribution to the development of international relations. Today, the park serves as a living reminder of the man who dedicated years to the development of culture, education, and infrastructure in his home region.

For a simple stroll along the promenade to breathe in the sea air and take some beautiful photos of the passage, 45 minutes to 1 hour is quite sufficient. It is a great spot for a quick break while exploring the town.

If you plan to have a family picnic, let the children play on the playground, or head to the adjacent pier for some fishing, you should set aside 2–3 hours. During summer festivals or Sunday markets, you can easily spend half a day here, immersing yourself in the local community atmosphere.

Robert W. Ostler Park is a public recreational area and is officially open for visits 24 hours a day, daily. You can enjoy a walk along the promenade early in the morning, meeting the sunrise over the passage, or late in the evening under the glow of the city lights.

Despite the 24-hour access, guests are recommended to plan their visit during daylight hours for a full sightseeing experience and to observe safety rules. For information on special events or temporary changes to the operation of specific facilities (for example, during festivals), it is worth checking the city's official website.

A visit to Robert W. Ostler Park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting locations in the city center. Just a few minutes' walk away are cultural sites and cozy venues that will help you get to know life in this coastal region better.

Exploring the surroundings will allow you to see historical vessels, meet the inhabitants of the deep at the local aquarium, or simply enjoy a meal at one of the pubs overlooking the water. Below is a list of nearby attractions: