Just 30 minutes from Parksville lies a hidden gem that’s perfect for both adventure seekers and nature lovers: Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, more commonly known as simply Horne Lake Caves.
Part of Vancouver Island’s vast network of well over 1,000 caves, Horne Lake offers a unique opportunity to explore what lies beneath—literally. Whether you're new to caving or a seasoned explorer, these caves in Parksville promise an unforgettable experience with unique geology, rich history, and guided tours catering to all interests and experience levels.
Best Time to Visit Horne Lake Caves
Horne Lake Caves is one of the Parksville attractions that is accessible year-round, with each season offering its own apparel and type of adventure. Winter and spring are particularly interesting, as the island's rainy season brings the caves to life in their natural wet state.
Water drips constantly from the stalactites, and the underground rivers flow at their fullest, letting you experience the caves as they were meant to be—wild. And despite being wet inside, the caves maintain a constant temperature of 8°C (47°F), regardless of what the weather's like outside.
This is one of the best Parksville activities, especially on cold or poor weather days, and a great way to get a winter hike! During the dry summer and fall, the park runs guided tours daily, so it's a bit easier to drop in on a whim.
What to Expect
If you're a first-time visitor, get ready for a raw, natural caving experience. Unlike developed "show caves" that have paved walkways, lights, and handrails, Horne Lake Caves are nearly untouched. You'll scramble over rocks, crouch through narrow passageways, and get up close and personal with the cave's features...in the dark, relying on ALL your senses!
What to Wear
Remember, the caves are cool and often wet (and therefore, slippery) inside, so comfortable, durable clothing is a must. Layers and non-slip footwear are essential—hiking boots or other shoes with good grip are ideal. Avoid wearing jeans or other thick cotton material, which can take quite a long time to dry. Also, be prepared for a bit of mud, especially during the rainy season. Insider tip: Bring dry, clean clothes to change into in the car.
Self-Guided vs. Guided Tours
You have the option to explore some of these caves in Parksville on your own, but for the best experience, a guided tour is highly recommended. The tours range in length and difficulty, so whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a more technical adventure, there’s something for everyone.
What You’ll See
Inside the caves, you’ll encounter stunning limestone formations like stalactites and stalagmites and experience a variety of rooms, including both narrow passageways and huge chambers. Keep your eyes peeled for fossils embedded in the rock walls and even under your feet, too. The caves are also home to various species of small wildlife, though it's unlikely you'll see them as they tend to stay out of sight.
Guided Tours at Horne Lake Caves
All tours include helmets and lights for explorers, and costs range from $54 to $199 per person.
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Riverbend Cave Explorer: The easiest, "most spacious" tour (meaning you have to do less squeezing through!), ideal for families and beginners. While you have to do some light bending and crouching, this tour gives you a taste of the underground world without too much scrambling. 1 hour, 45 minutes; minimum age 6
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Multi-Cave Experience (Riverbend + Main Caves): After exploring the Riverbend Cave, continue on to the Main Cave, where you'll get the chance to climb a multi-tiered waterfall and experience the ONLY cave slide in Canada! 2.5 hours; minimum age 8
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The Action Pack (Main + Lower Caves): An extremely popular tour, the aptly-named Action Pack has loads of fun obstacles, such as climbing and squeezing, plus a memorable glow-in-the-dark calcite formation. 1.5 hours; minimum age 8
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Vertical Cave Tours (available in the summer months only): For more experienced cavers and things to do in Parksville with teenagers, a variety of vertical cave tours includes challenges like rappelling, rock climbing, and crawling on all fours. 4-5.5 hours; minimum age 13-16
In addition to guided tours, visitors have the option of exploring some of the caves on their own. The first section of the Main Cave, as well as Andres Annex Cave, are open to exploration, while Riverbend, Upper, and the remainder of Main Cave are gated off and accessible only on guided tours. The park strongly urges self-guided explorers to rent helmets with lights and cave maps before setting out.
Other Things to Do at Horne Lake Caves in Parksville
For those who aren’t too keen on the underground, Horne Lake Caves has plenty to do on the surface.
The 1.5-km Phil Whitfield’s Fossil Geology Trail is a great way to explore the area and learn about the caves from a different perspective. Explore on your own, stopping at the eight interpretive signs along the way, or look out for the park's occasional guided hikes to the cave entrances, where you’ll get a detailed explanation of the geological forces and history that shaped them, without actually having to venture into the dark.
In addition to the trail, the visitor centre is worth a stop. Here, you'll find museum-quality displays with information about the cave system, plus some fun souvenirs to bring home.
Choose The Beach Club for Your Caving Adventure
Exploring Horne Lake Caves is a unique way to experience Vancouver Island’s untamed beauty, particularly an aspect of it that few visitors ever see. Whether you’re diving deep underground or sticking closer to the surface, this park offers an unforgettable adventure just a short drive from The Beach Club Resort in Parksville. Only here can you enjoy exploring the underground world, then unwinding at a beachfront resort and dining while you look out over the sea. Sounds like the perfect adventure! Book your stay today.
