Dubbed the "birthplace of British Columbia," the village of Fort Langley is best-known for its historic and heritage sites, but it also features scenic parks with camping, hiking and fishing opportunities.
Brae Island Regional Park
This 64ha/158ac park is located on Brae Island, immediately northwest of Fort Langley and accessible by bridge across the Fraser River's Bedford Channel. Brae Island Regional Park became Metro Vancouver's 21st regional park when it officially opened on July 21, 2007. Rent canoes, boats, and kayaks at Fort Camping, an RV campsite in the park. The island's forested terrain is rich with freshwater marshes. Hike along more than 2km/1.24mi of wheelchair-ready interpretive trails. Brae Island Regional Park is a great place to relax and watch the river flow at the waterfront day-use area. Neighbouring McMillan Island is home to a Kwantlen First Nations reserve.
Derby Reach Regional Park
Located a brief walk or drive northwest of Fort Langley, Derby Reach Regional Park is a pleasant day-use park that offers first-come, first-served camping sites facing the Fraser River. It's popular for picnicking, fishing, horseback riding , and cycling, and also has a leash-free area for dogs. The 297ha/733ac park includes giant cottonwood trees, bogs, and meadows. Derby Reach Regional Park is the starting point for the 4km/2.5mi Fort-to-Fort Trail (rated easy) that runs from the original site of the Fort Langley trading post (1827) to the current National Historic Site (1839) next to the village. Native wildflowers, river views, and interpretive signage adorn the trail.
For a quiet, one-hour nature walk, exit the southern parking area next to McKinnon Crescent and head through the forest on the circular Houston Trail.
There are more parks to explore throughout the greater Langley area. Check with the Visitor Centre for updated information about the parks and their amenities.