Draft:Prospect Lake (British Columbia)

Prospect Lake is a lake and community in the municipality of Saanich on Vancouver Island near the border between Saanich and The Highlands in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The Prospect Lake community is designated as a part of the Rural Saanich Area within the municipality of Saanich.

History
On July 18, 1864, members of the Vancouver Island Exploring Expedition discovered gold in the Leech River. It is believed that the name "Prospect Lake" originated from Forty-Niners who followed the gold vein from Leechtown into the Prospect Lake area. These prospectors found some gold in Webb Creek, which flows into the nearby Durrance Lake. Although no gold was found in Prospect Lake itself, the name endured even after the prospectors moved on.

Parks
Prospect Lake features several parks that are popular destinations for swimming, fishing, and boating. These parks are managed by Saanich, with support from the Prospect Lake Preservation Society, Friends of Tod Creek Watershed, and the Prospect Lake District Community Association.

Whitehead Park
Whitehead Park, the most developed of the four parks surrounding Prospect Lake, is situated at the north end of the lake. Visitors can access the park via parking lots located on Prospect Lake Road and Goward Road. The park features a dock, a carry-in boat launch, and a playground. Additionally, seasonal washrooms are available from May through November.

Estelline Park
Located on the west side of Prospect Lake, this small park is next to the larger South Prospect Lake Park. It features open green space, excellent bird-watching spots, and scenic views of the lake. Although parking is limited, visitors can take advantage of a carry-in boat launch, popular among anglers and recreational boaters.

South Prospect Lake Park
This expansive wooded park offers access to Prospect Lake through multiple secluded, rocky entry points. Visitors can park in the main lot off Prospect Lake Road and follow natural trails that lead down to the lake.

Echo Place Boat Launch
This small boat launch is located at the end of Echo Drive. There is limited parking along the road. The boat launch has controlled access via a gate open from approximately 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.