Secret Beach Campground & Kayak Launch

Secret Beach is a Toquaht Nation-operated campground and kayak launch on Toquaht Bay in Barkley Sound. For paddlers heading to the Broken Group Islands, it is a road-access base for a maze of forested islands, sheltered channels and rocky reefs that you explore by boat. Make it a staging stop for a planned paddle, not a quick scenic pullout; the crossings call for strong navigation and rescue skills in changing marine conditions.

The main campground and marina are about half a kilometer beyond the kayak-launch office and tent platforms. Confirm which area your reservation uses before driving in. Platforms by the launch are tent-only, with one tent and two people per platform. An overnight on the islands is a separate trip: it requires a Parks Canada backcountry permit and park entry pass.

From the Highway 4 turnoff, allow about 30 minutes on the rough gravel logging road to Toquart Bay. The road passes through a logging area, so take it slowly and check current access before setting out. This is a seasonal operation with a winter and spring closure; confirm opening dates before making the drive.

Campsites have fire pits and picnic tables; water, washrooms and showers are listed near the marina and launch. Confirm water, washroom and shower availability before leaving town. There is no cell service, though the offices have Wi-Fi. A small essentials shop is available, so bring the food you want to cook and other supplies you need.

The Toquaht people are Nuu-chah-nulth people of Toquaht Bay, Mayne Bay and western Barkley Sound, with a presence on Vancouver Island’s west coast extending back more than 10,000 years. Whaling, salmon fishing, sea mammals and shellfish are part of the region’s long history, as is cedar used for homes, clothing, canoes and storage.