Getting to Gulf Islands National Park
Gulf Islands National Park sits in BC, Canada, with Ganges the nearest town of any size — about 3.7 km (2.3 mi) out, or roughly 6 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Ganges | 3.7 km (2.3 mi) | 6 min |
| Maple Bay | 12.9 km (8 mi) | 22 min |
| Crofton | 14.9 km (9.3 mi) | 25 min |
| North Cowichan | 17.3 km (10.7 mi) | 29 min |
| Cowichan Bay | 17.8 km (11.1 mi) | 30 min |
| Deep Cove | 18.6 km (11.5 mi) | 31 min |
| Koksilah | 19.4 km (12.1 mi) | 32 min |
| Duncan | 19.9 km (12.4 mi) | 33 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Gulf Islands National Park?
Ganges, about 3.7 km (2.3 mi) away — roughly 6 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Gulf Islands National Park?
The practical bases are Ganges, Maple Bay, and Crofton — all within a reasonable drive of the park.