Park & nature

Buttertubs Marsh

Buttertubs MarshGeoff Peters from Vancouver, BC, Canada · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

Buttertubs Marsh is a serene nature reserve located within Nanaimo, offering a tranquil escape into a protected wetland ecosystem. A network of well-maintained trails and boardwalks winds through cattails and open water, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Visitors can spot ducks, herons, red-winged blackbirds, and occasionally muskrats or turtles. The marsh is a peaceful spot for a leisurely walk, photography, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

Don't miss

  • Walk the boardwalk trails for close-up views of marsh birds and aquatic plants.
  • Bring binoculars to spot waterfowl like mallards, wood ducks, and great blue herons.
  • Visit the observation platforms for panoramic views of the wetland and surrounding forest.

More attractions in Nanaimo

Planning your trip to Nanaimo? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Nanaimo itinerary.