The RDN's Regional Parks function was established in 1989. The RDN Board adopted the Parks System Plan in 1995. Regional Parks are funded by taxpayers in the RDN's eight Electoral Areas. Bensen Creek Falls, located above Brannen Lake in Electoral Area 'D' was the RDN's first regional park. The 22 ha.
Site features a spectacular waterfall and a number of petroglyphs.
The RDN will complete a master plan for the site in the spring of 1999 which will establish a development program for the park. While the park has numerous informal trails visitors are asked to use caution when visiting and exploring the site. In 1999 the Regional District of Nanaimo will acquire a new regional park site in the Corcan Road area of the Electoral Area 'H' as part of a development project in the community. The new 44 ha. Site follows the Little Qualicum River providing a public land corridor and trail connections from the Qualicum River Estates community through to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.