A wildfire near Cameron Lake on Vancouver Island prompts evacuations and park closures. Highway 4 remains open, but travellers are urged to use caution.
Fire Sparks Emergency Response Near Cameron Lake
An out-of-control wildfire ignited early Thursday on Vancouver Island’s Cameron Lake north shore has prompted an evacuation order and alert, raising concern among local residents and emergency officials. The fire, dubbed the Wesley Ridge wildfire, was discovered just after midnight on August 1, 2025, and is burning in steep terrain that is challenging for crews to access.
Evacuation Orders and Alerts Issued
The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) declared a state of local emergency Thursday and issued an evacuation order for homes along Chalet Road and Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. An evacuation alert was extended to Little Qualicum River Village, near Qualicum Beach, affecting nearly 300 properties. Residents are being urged to be ready to leave with little notice due to rapidly changing fire conditions.
Crews Battle Difficult Terrain and Intensifying Flames
According to the B.C. Wildfire Service, the fire has grown to 0.6 square kilometres and is burning at Rank 2 to Rank 3 intensity—indicating a moderately vigorous surface fire with visible flames. About 40 wildfire personnel are battling the blaze with support from local fire departments in Coombs and Dashwood, four helicopters, and air tanker support.
Highway 4 Remains Open—But Warnings Issued
Despite the fire’s proximity to the critical Highway 4 corridor, the route remains open. However, both B.C. Wildfire Service and DriveBC have advised extreme caution for drivers. “Please be mindful, crews and aircraft are working in the area,” officials urged, warning drivers not to disrupt traffic or stop on the highway to observe the fire.
Park Closures Implemented to Support Firefighting
To aid firefighting efforts, B.C. Parks has closed day-use areas at Cameron Lake and Beaufort. While Little Qualicum Falls Campground remains open, officials say this status could change with fire activity. The wildfire is suspected to be human-caused, though specific details have not been released.
Region on Edge After 2023 Wildfire Fallout
The current fire has reignited anxiety for locals, who remember the June 2023 wildfire on the south side of Cameron Lake, which forced a three-week closure of Highway 4. That incident cost the region an estimated $61 million in lost tourism revenue. The highway is the only paved route connecting Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet, and Nuu-Chah-Nulth communities with the rest of the island.
As conditions evolve, residents and travellers are urged to follow updates from RDN, DriveBC, and the B.C. Wildfire Service. Evacuees are advised to register with local emergency centres and monitor regional channels for the latest alerts.
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