Sproat Lake Provincial Park has some of the best prehistoric petroglyphs found in BC. Created by First Nations people, these panels of ancient rock carvings are some of the finest in British Columbia.
Prehistoric petroglyphs at Sproat Lake
This archaeological site, K’ak’awin, offers nine ancient rock carvings for viewing. Over the years, natural erosion has taken its toll on the panels of prehistoric drawings, causing them to deteriorate and fade.
The photo below, from the 1970s, clearly shows the difference caused over time by water runoff, water level changes, thawing and freezing.
The etchings look like they represent creatures from the lake, real or mythical.
To reach the petroglyphs, take the pathway leading to the left of the main day use picnic and beach area of Sproat Lake. It is a short walk through the forest and along the shoreline to the viewing platform.
Top things to do on Vancouver Island, discover prehistoric petroglyphs at Sproat Lake Provincial Park. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Walk along the trail to view the ancient petroglyphs at Sproat Lake. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Walk along the trail to view the ancient petroglyphs on Sproat Lake. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Walk along the trail to view the ancient petroglyphs on Sproat Lake Provincial Park. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Walk along the trail to view the ancient petroglyphs at Sproat Lake Provincial Park. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Historic Martin Mars Waterbombers
Two historic waterbombers, the Hawaii Mars and the Philippine Mars, have had their home base at Sproat Lake since the 1950s. These aircraft were originally built for use during the Second World War. After the war, vintage planes were used to help fight forest fires by dropping water or fire retardant.
In years past, two of these huge historic planes would have been seen sitting in the middle of the lake, waiting to be called into action. In the 1950s, B.C.’s forest industry purchased four of the aircraft and repurposed them into wildfire-fighting machines.
The planes have been retired, and the last waterbomber, the Philippine Mars, left its longtime base in February 2025 and now resides at the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona, one of the world’s largest aviation and space museums.
The Hawaii Mars moved to the B.C. Aviation Museum in North Saanich on August 22, 2024. However, donations are needed to cover the significant costs of restoring the massive vintage aircraft.
The last of the remaining famous Martin Mars waterbombers,( seen in the distance) the Hawaii Mars is sitting in drydock at Sproat Lake. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Sproat Lake outdoor activities
Sproat Lake Provincial Park offers a warm freshwater lake for swimming in the summer months. It is also a popular spot for picnics, windsurfing, waterskiing, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Find out more about the park.
There are two campsite areas in the park. To avoid disappointment, be sure to make a reservation. Download a park map.
On a hot summer day, take a swim at Sproat Lake Provincial Park. A great family-friendly area to explore. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Getting to Sproat Lake Provincial Park
Sproat Lake Provincial Park is located on Vancouver Island, off Highway #4, 13 km north of Port Alberni on the road to Pacific Rim National Park.
Looking for the best things to do in Port Alberni? Don’t miss our Port Alberni Travel Guide to 21 Great Adventures
Discover some of the best places to stop on a scenic road trip from Victoria to Pacific Rim National Park.
Explore the top 10 things to do in Victoria
If you are planning a visit to Vancouver Island be sure to check out our guide to the top 10 things to do in Victoria, BC. In addition to exploring the vibrant city of Victoria, don’t miss the spectacular outdoor adventures and hidden gems that Vancouver Island has to offer. For those visiting during the summer, make sure to research the **best July events in Vancouver** to fully experience the local culture and festivities. From music festivals to outdoor markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the beautiful coastal city.
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
Great and fascinating post. You live in a wonderful area! Cheers!