Campbell Valley Regional Park is a hidden gem. Wander through the forest, watch for birds next to the river, or go for a hike. There is a lot to explore at this park in southern Langley.
How to Get to Campbell Valley Regional Park
From Vancouver, take Oak Street south as it crosses the bridge into Richmond and becomes Highway 99. Continue south on Highway 99 through the tunnel into Delta and then towards White Rock. Take exit 2A to go east on 8 Avenue into Langley. Stay on 8 Avenue for about 8 km, then look for the south park entrance on your left just before the intersection with 204 Street. You can also head north for a few minutes on 200 Street, then turn right on 16th avenue to reach the north park entrance.
Tips for Visiting
- Visit the park website and use the park map to plan your trip.
- The park gate opens at 7 a.m. each day and closes in the early evening. Closing times vary with the season. Check opening hours on the park website so you don’t get locked in.
- Dogs must be on leash in the park to protect wildlife. There is a small off-leash area in the southwest corner of the park near the intersection of 4 Avenue and 204 Street.
- Smoking, vaping, cannabis, drones, alcohol, and collecting plants are not allowed.
- There are washrooms at the north and south park entrances as well as the Campbell Valley Downs Equestrian Centre.
- Be safe in the park. AdventureSmart recommends bringing a backpack with essential safety and first aid gear on every hike. Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for the weather. Leave a trip plan so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back.
- Read our tips for safe winter hiking in Vancouver.
Walk or Roll the Accessible Little River Loop Trail
This flat trail uses raised boardwalks and well-graded paths to make a 2.3 km loop that is wheelchair accessible. Allow about 1 hour to make the trip around the Little Campbell River valley. Be sure to stop to watch for birds and other wildlife at the Listening Bridge and along the boardwalks.
Watch for Birds and Wildlife
Campbell Valley Regional Park is one of the best spots for birding in the Vancouver area. With several different habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, the park attracts many bird species. Watch for songbirds in the reeds, ducks bobbing in the water, and raptors soaring overhead. The park is also home to lots of other wildlife, including squirrels, raccoons, coyotes, and deer.
Have a Campfire
Pack some firewood, hot dogs, and marshmallows to enjoy a campfire. There is a first-come, first-served campfire ring at the Old Orchard Picnic Shelter near the south entrance.
Admire the Horses
Campbell Valley Regional Park is a popular destination for local equestrians. The Campbell Valley Downs Equestrian Centre on the east side of the park has a riding ring and cross-country course. You may also encounter horses on shared trails throughout the park, especially the Shaggy Mane Loop.
Explore the Trails
The park has 33 kilometres of hiking trails to explore. Popular options include the shorter Little River Loop and Ravine Loop. If you’re up for a longer trail, hike the 11-km-long Shaggy Mane Trail, which takes about 3.5 hours. If you explore some of the park’s less popular trails, such as the Deer Trail Meadow Trail, you have a good chance of spotting wildlife.
Go Biking
The flat Perimeter Trail on the east side of the park is the only route in the park open to cyclists. It passes through open fields and forest and is a great place to spot red-tailed hawks. Campbell Valley Regional Park also makes a good starting point for exploring the quiet country roads of south Langley by bike.
Visit Historic Buildings
The park includes several heritage buildings, a legacy from the area’s farming past. Find the Annand/Rowlatt Farmstead and Lochiel Schoolhouse near the south park entrance. Parts of the farmstead were built in the 1880s and the school dates back to 1924.