Quinsam Hatchery: Free Self-Guided Tours

Monday, October 12, 2026

Quinsam River Hatchery, 4217 Argonaut Road, Campbell River

Published by Campbell River Now

The river is quite busy this time of year… salmon, bears, people fishing… and of course people watching the salmon, bears, and fishing! It’s a great time visit the Quinsam River Hatchery & trails along the river! Please note: The Hatchery tours are free, but have limited hours. Call ahead. Remember: Gates close at 3:30pm! You can still walk the trails around river around after 3:30pm, but gates close & indoor displays are only open from 8am to 3:30pm. Just park outside the gates if you arrive near or after closing. Learn more about the hatchery here Bears & Bear Safety Remember to be aware that the bears frequent the area at this time of year, especially so be bear smart: Be noisy, don’t tread softly. Be known. Speak to your hiking partner as you are walking. The times I have gotten uncomfortably close to a bear is when they were unaware of my presence. I’ve almost walked right into bears along the Quinsam River — most often on narrow paths lined with steep salmonberry bushes that I call “bear gauntlets”. I make it a point to be especially noisy & walk with heavy feet in these areas so the bears can hear & feel me, and avoid me. Also, it should be obvious, but apparently it isn’t. Don’t pet the bears!