Sayward Futures Society

Sayward Futures Society (SFS) is a dedicated non-profit organization responsible for the long-term, sustainable operation of the Kelsey Bay Wharf, vibrant trail networks, and outdoor opportunities that introduce the world to the Sayward region.

SFS also owns and operates the Kelsey Bay Wharf where you will find the Oceanview Gallery & Café and the Sayward Visitors Centre, located in Al’s Room.  

If you love the outdoors and are passionate about our community we are always looking for volunteers to help with a variety of community projects, events and operations including supporting the Oceanview Gallery & Café, Visitors Centre and our trail network. Whether you have a few hours or want to get more involved, your time makes a real difference.  Contact us today!

Kelsey Bay Wharf

 Kelsey Bay Wharf is proudly owned and operated by Sayward Futures Society. On the Wharf you will find the Oceanview Gallery & Café and the Sayward Visitor Centre. The Port of Kelsey Bay is located in the Johnstone Strait, along the inside passage of the beautiful Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. It’s home to a variety of marine life, often seen right from the wharf including orcas, grey whales, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, and dolphins! 

Oceanview Gallery & Cafe

On the Wharf, Sayward Futures seasonally operates the Oceanview Gallery & Café to raise funds for maintenance of  the Kelsey Bay Wharf.  Come on down and enjoy a coffee/tea, cold beverages, muffins, snacks, or ice cream while you browse the eclectic displays of artworks from various artists across Vancouver Island.   Fishing licenses can be purchased on site and fishing rods are available for rent with a small deposit.

Sayward Visitor Centre

The Sayward Visitors Centre is located in Al’s Room which was built in memory of Al Wright by his family.  Al was was a local conservationist and Sayward Futures board member who passed away in 2004.  Al’s room is currently open 24/7 with FREE WIFI, water, craft supplies for kids, and puzzles for all ages.  Come and check out the selection of books, travel and informational brochures, and area maps.  Do not forget to sign the guest book and take a moment to enjoy the scenery!

Mt. H’Kusam & Kusam Klimb

“Bill’s Trail — The Kusam Klimb Story” is a 15 minute mini-documentary celebrating Bill West-Sells’s perseverance and dedication to his community!

The Kusam Klimb has an amazing history with humble beginnings, and through the passion and dedication of the community, it has grown year over year to what it is today. This locally grown event now has 1000 participants and is the 2nd largest endurance race in British Columbia. A race of this scope and location requires a lot of planning as well as a variety of permissions, permits and insurances to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. The focus needs to continue on trail maintenance, structures and other key infrastructure that are also of critical importance and must be compliant with provincial standards. 

Sayward Futures Society, a nonprofit society operating from the Kelsey Bay Wharf has maintained a contract with Recreation Sites and Trails BC for many years and this event falls within the jurisdiction of that contract. This event brings 1000 participants, 150+ volunteers, friends and family members to our community and while there are dollars donated back to the community, as well as money towards trail maintenance, there are also immense benefits to local business and the opportunity to grow. We are very excited to see where this event can go from here and proud of this community we call home!

Recreation Sites and Trails BC

Elk Creek

You’ll find this shady creekside site about 500 yards north of the Sayward Junction. This site offers open forest for easy exploration with a trail on the south side of the access road. Visit nearby Sayward Village, Kelsey Bay Wharf ’s Oceanview Gallery & Café, the Sayward Visitor Centre, and the Salmon River Estuary. 

Stewart Lake

About 37 km south of Sayward, are four sites nestled in an old growth forest at lakes’ edge, a fifth site is perched on a hill across the road and a trail circles the lake through the trees. A very popular spot for fishing but is restricted to electric motors only.  This site does include a cartop boat launch.

Tlowils Lake

 A short journey of approximately 20 km north of the Sayward Junction, this beautiful site is nestled amongst a small old growth cedar grove on beautiful Tlowils Lake. This site has a cartop boat launch with five smaller sites more appropriate for tenting or a truck and camper.

Santa Maria Day Site

 Located just 7 km from the Sayward Junction, this gorgeous little day getaway is wonderful for picnicking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking or just lounging. As a Day Site, there is no overnight camping.