Camping in British Columbia

A vast wilderness of mountains, backcountry trails, temperate rainforests, and a sprawling waterfront.

93% (3307 reviews)

Popular camping styles for British Columbia

Available this weekend

12 top campgrounds in British Columbia

99%
(114)

theDoighouse Earthship

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, Nanaimo
In your wildest dreams can you imagine a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans and concrete? Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship nestled in the forest just a 5 minute walk from Qualicum Bay. We are centrally located mid Vancouver Island, 20 minutes to the Old Country Market - Goats on the Roof, less than 30 minutes from Horne Lake Caves, or a 2.5 hr drive to Tofino and world class surfing. Into skiing? We're just a 45 minute drive to Mount Washington. There are lots of activities in our area, including beaches, lakes and hiking. You can pitch a tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff! Join us on Wednesdays in July and August for a drop-in gentle, mindful, and restorative yoga session in our beautiful gardens. Led by our wonderful yogi Lindsay, a true embodiment of grace. No prior experience, you are perfect just as you are. Come and unwind in nature. We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events. On arrival you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily. Our Earthship, currently under construction, is all about exploring a low-impact lifestyle, off-grid living in an energy-efficient dwelling built from recycled materials. It is love for the planet, people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive. Come visit, tour, and stay.
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CA$25
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84%
(88)

Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Tsawwassen, Greater Vancouver
Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat & Lodge. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is located in Tsawwassen BC, conveniently 5 mins from the BC Ferries, directly behind Splashdown Park and Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada, and Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, and we are surrounded 6 beaches, one of which you can wind surf. There are many other amenities near by for your added convivence. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on ocean front property, to gather with friends, family, groups, or a beautiful quiet getaway by yourself to recharge. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat also offers space for *Retreats *Weddings *Festivals *Birthdays* Holiday parties* Corporate parties* Receptions* Business Meetings* Bridal Showers *Family Events * Engagement Parties * Anniversary's We offer event planning services and provide facilities for group gatherings, ensuring a memorable and picturesque setting for guests. Please inquire for more information, we would be happy to help. From the moment you step foot into our enchanting retreat, you'll be enveloped in a world of elegance and serenity. Nestled in the heart of nature, our glamping tents offer a harmonious blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has been meticulously designed with your utmost relaxation in mind, providing you with a private oasis amidst breathtaking surroundings. Inside your tent, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, luxury bedding, and tasteful decor have been carefully selected to create an ambiance of tranquility. You can unwind and reconnect with nature while indulging in the modern amenities and conveniences we've thoughtfully incorporated into every aspect of your stay. But the wonders of our retreat extend far beyond the walls of your luxurious tent. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of our natural surroundings, whether it's the gentle rustling of leaves, the awe-inspiring vistas, or the melodious chorus of birdsong. Explore the nearby trails, engage in outdoor activities, or simply find solace in the stillness of the wilderness. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath a eagles nest, that you can view from the luxury and privacy of your own glamping tent. There is a nearby wooden boardwalk that takes you to the beautiful beachfront where you can have picnics, bike ride, paddle board, bird watch, nature photography, and watch some breath taking sunsets. Book your stay with us today and embark on a remarkable retreat that will leave you refreshed, renewed, and forever transformed. Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat, your gateway to tranquility and personal growth.
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CA$75
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93%
(163)

Canadian Rockies Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Columbia Shuswap
Experience true seclusion in a remote, picturesque setting. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy a private, nature-filled retreat in the Canadian Rockies. With access to a creek, 3 waterfalls and a surrounding forest, this is the perfect place to escape the busyness of city life. Spend your days exploring the waterfalls and the iconic Blaeberry River! Follow the Waterfall signs to get to the first waterfall then go up the canyon to see the other ones. The Blaeberry River offers gentler rafting and paddling opportunities. There are also SUP, kayak and canoe guided tours and rentals nearby. There’s plenty of hiking, fishing, paddling and biking to enjoy. We have 3 different listings available an off-grid cabin, 2 yurts or a tent site with 3 different campsites available. We look forward to hosting you!
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CA$30
 / night
97%
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Forager Hill Farm on Hayward Lake

3 sites · Lodging5 acres · Mission, Fraser Valley
Our 5 acre forested farm backs onto Hayward Lake and has the Stave River at the front of the property. Our farm has ducks, chickens, rabbits, and a collection of cats. There are wild berry bushes throughout the property and the surrounding forest. Lake access is private (people could hike in or canoe up, but normally we have it to ourselves) and the lake itself is a great spot for wildlife watching (beavers, deer, bats, fish, bears, owls, eagles, osprey etc.). The Stave River in the front of the property offers a more sunny spot for swimming and fishing. The Hayward Reservoir Trail circumnavigates the whole lake and the trail entrance is a 5 minute walk from the cabin. Guests can book our cabin and if you have additional bodies, add on our campsite ($30 a night) during the booking process. Both sites include picnic tables and outhouses. We provide fresh spring water and campfire wood can be supplied ($10 a bundle). The cabin is insulated and can be heated with the wood stove so it is suitable for use all year.
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CA$130
 / night
100%
(4)

Yurt At Inshallah

1 site · Lodging72 acres · Columbia Shuswap
Our cozy, rustic off grid yurt is located 20 min west of Golden in the Bleaberry Valley. It is nestled on the side of Willow Bank mountain. The views and nearby activities here are world class. The yurt has the necessities you need to have a comfortable stay anytime of year but is a very basic and rustic place, best suited to adventure seekers. Before booking this large TENT please take a minute and read all about the unique amenities (or lack thereof!!!) that we offer... or don’t :-).
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CA$89
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100%
(80)

Moon Gate Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Roberts Creek, Sunshine Coast
Moon Gate Farms offers a traditional camping experience with eco campsites in Roberts Creek, BC. You can bring your own camping gear or relax in a pre-set tent. Either way, you will find yourself surrounded by unspoiled wilderness. While located in a remote part of Roberts Creek, the campground is just a 10-minute drive from beaches, restaurants, and hiking trails. Moon Gate farms is an ideal getaway for family holidays, mountain walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, or couples looking to escape into the wilderness. Communal outdoor kitchen with camp stove, prep tables, toaster, microwave, are provided. Friend canine campers are also invited. We have two resident Bernese mountain x golden retriever dogs who love to bark when campers arrive! They are friendly and settle quickly when told to sit and chill. Best way to get directions is to use Google Maps and put in Moon Gate Farms in Roberts Creek. We are pinned to the map and on the East Wilson Forest Service rd.
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CA$45
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100%
(12)

Forest Sanctuary Cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Roberts Creek, Sunshine Coast
Experience a cute little off grid cabin in the beautiful forest setting of Forest Sanctuary Campground in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast, BC. This 350 sq ft simple cabin has a private camping kitchen, wood stove, a futon bed for 2, a couch, small dining table and ambient night time solar lighting. The cabin is situated in the midst of a beautifully landscaped forest setting. Please note that there may be tent campers within the campground in the vicinity. The cabin is situated near a communal pavilion, kitchen, lounge and fire pit that is available for you and all campers to use. Your bathroom is an open air outhouse nearby. Solar showers are provided in a private forest setting. Bring a cooler for your food as there is no refrigerator. Please note I am 1.8 kms up a private road. It is gravel and well maintained. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
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CA$135
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100%
(36)

Golden Ears Glamping - Suite

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Maple Ridge, Greater Vancouver
Golden Ears Glamping is a forested riverside getaway that has has two types of stays: The Cabin-like self contained suite with private entrance and hot tub or the riverside self-contained Glamping Tent. 1. The Bear Suite, attached to the house that has complete privacy. Private entrance, hot tub for two, and deck with personal BBQ. and personal lounge area. Walls are double and ceiling is soundproofed. 2. Rivers Edge, a riverfront (Alouette River South) glamping tent that is elevated in the large cedars overlooking the river. Personal kitchenette, full bathroom and outdoor shower. We have one Glamping tent and is completely private and is away hidden from the main house but close enough for anything you request. Either option of accommodation has everything you need to "Relax, Rejuvenate and Romance" (our motto). We are professional hosts and take this seriously, your happiness is our 1st goal. We have a huge river frontage with a swimmable natural pond and many relaxation areas that are very private and secluded. Great for fishing for rainbows all year round, salmon in fall, and steelhead in the winter. We have been hosting for seven years now and everyone loves this place and have many returning guests year after year. We are so close to metro Vancouver and anywhere in the Fraser Valley so you don't need a big road trip. We have people coming from Australia, Europe, lots from the U.S., even returning guests from Hawaii. This is the place where you can truly "Relax, Rejuvenate and Romance"
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CA$100
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100%
(7)

Eagle Eye

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Deroche, Fraser Valley
Flat 2 acres surrounded by trees and across from slough. Quiet country surroundings. Great for kayaking and biking. Wild life to see (eagles, bears, coyotes, beavers, otters etc). Beach over looking the water. Several local hot spots close by, such as waterfalls, golf courses, lakes, skiing and many other tourist destinations.
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CA$25
 / night
88%
(16)

City Blueberry Ranch

1 site · RV20 acres · Richmond, Greater Vancouver
A blueberry farm close to downtown Vancouver, with views of the mountains, easy access to the highway & over 20 acres of planted land for you to explore. We have been farming since the 1970's and take pride in producing and harvesting some of the best blueberries you will find in BC. Take advantage of our gravel area situated on on one side of our blueberry farm to set up your camper/RV. Enjoy the access to local parks, grocery stores, coffee shops and restaurants that are just a 2 minute drive away from our ranch. We are also 15 minutes away from Steveston Village - a cute waterside village with small businesses, bike paths and parks. 25 minutes away from downtown Vancouver & 15 minutes away from the Vancouver International Airport.
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CA$52.50
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91%
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Island Gertie

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Gabriola Island Trust Area, Nanaimo
The Gertie Bus is located a 5 min walk to a beautiful white sand beach (at low tide). There are walking trails all around and lots of beach access. Tucked into the front of our property in the quiet of Gabriola island you’ll find the converted Gertie bus with all the amenities you need. The bus has a gas stovetop/oven, bar fridge and sink with grey water system. Equipped kitchen and sofa area to hang out. The standard queen bed is great for sleeping in and relaxing with that second cup of coffee. Mountain biking, hiking, swimming and whale watching are just steps away. There is beach access across the street through a private park with picnic tables, a very old eagles nest and a private access to a rocky beach perfect for sunsets. The home itself has a pottery studio on the main floor with a full time studio Practice. Give Paige a ring if you’d like a tour, she’s usually working away. Our family lives on the top floor. Outside the bus is are lush veggie gardens, fruit trees and a nice private outdoor dining area. A BBQ and solar lights also help with evening hangouts. Family friendly! Also we love animals but we ask that you clean up after your pet and keep any animals that aren’t so great with kids and other animals on leash. We have a dachshund on the property that is friendly and old ( barks at strangers but is all bark I assure you, he just wants to be friends)
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CA$98
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Booked 5 times

Urban Camping

1 site · RV1 acre · Coquitlam, Greater Vancouver
Centrally located parking spot for a Trailer/RV/Fifth Wheel/Van/Bus up to 32 feet long. Additional parking available for tow vehicle. Easy access to Highway 1 & Highway 7. 35 min drive to downtown Vancouver. 15 min walk to Coquitlam Centre Skytrain station if you'd prefer to park and take transit to Vancouver. Fast Wi-fi, electricity (15 amp), and water included. NO dumping please. Closest dump site is a 10 minute drive away. Easy access to this driveway off of a wide back alley. If you're not looking for an urban adventure, this property is located close to hiking trails, bike trails, downhill biking, lakes (boating, fishing), ocean, wildlife. Buntzen Lake (boating/fishing/hiking/beach), Rocky Point Park (boat launch/paddleboarding/biking), Minnekhada Park (wildlife watching/hiking), Burnaby Mountain (downhill biking/hiking) are all nearby.
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CA$40
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Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

Value Prop
Value Prop

The best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in British Columbia guide

It’s hard to describe British Columbia as anything other than wildly breathtaking—quite literally when you swim in one of the province’s many turquoise glacier lakes, ride a wave, or catch a glimpse of a bear in the forest. For camping experiences and road trips, BC offers privately operated campgrounds and RV parks; a major network of parks with reservable and first-come, first-served tent camping sites; yurts and cabins; and thousands of recreation sites and trails on beaches, lakes, mountains, and meadows. Thanks to the mild climate and some winter huts, camping is possible year-round.

West Coast

The Pacific Ocean runs along the length of BC, offering plenty of oceanside spots to explore. On Vancouver Island, Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park are famous for cold-water surfing, whale watching, and hot springs, while nearby Ucluelet is a fisher’s paradise. Further inland, campers can find riverside camping in Squamish; backcountry huts around the resort town of Whistler; and reservable tent pads overlooking the jewel-toned Joffre Lake. For a true off-the-grid experience, head to Haida Gwaii's Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve—set about 100 kilometres off the northern British Columbia coast, this area is only reachable by sea or air.

Northern British Columbia

The northern part of the province is all raw, rugged beauty, with unique culture and untouched natural beauty. Soak in Canada’s second-largest hot spring in Fort Nelson, watch salmon spawning in the many rivers, and peek at bears catching some themselves at Kleanza Creek Provincial Park in Terrace. Options for outdoor stays include vast wilderness resorts, remote cabins, and private beach, lakefront, or rainforest campsites—but note that cell service and WiFi are rare in these parts. Bonus: Given its far north location, it’s relatively easy to snag last-minute campsites that still offer peace and quiet.

Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

With a blend of history, wildlife, adventure, and expansive grasslands, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is true Canadian countryside. Campers come to this wild western spot to spend time in the Great Bear Rainforest and at alpine rivers (whitewater rafting is big here), but travelers usually also visit lakeside fishing lodges and historic Gold Rush towns such as Barkerville. Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is a prime spot for the chance to spot a grizzly bear.

Kootenay Rockies

Set in the province’s southeastern corner and part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, the Kootenays are home to four national parks: Glacier, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho. Here you’ll find unrivaled wildlife—think black bears, mountain goats, and elk—much of which can be spotted even from the highway. Throughout the region are glaciers, peaks, waterfalls, and quirky little towns such as Golden, Cranbrook, and Kimberley, the highest in Canada at 1,113 meters up. Camping and tenting is typically open between May and September, with limited winter options.

Frequently Asked Questions

In British Columbia, camping is generally not allowed in public parks unless the park has designated camping areas or campgrounds. Camping in non-designated areas or outside of established campgrounds can result in fines, eviction, or other legal consequences. It is essential to respect the rules and regulations set by the park authorities to protect the natural environment and maintain the park's beauty. For legal camping options in British Columbia, including the Kamloops area, consider searching for designated campgrounds or sites on Hipcamp.

Yes, you can camp for free on Crown land in British Columbia (BC), Canada. Crown land comprises about 94% of BC's land base and is managed by the provincial government. Residents of BC can camp on Crown land for up to 14 days at a time, while non-residents are required to obtain a permit. It's important to note that not all Crown land is open for camping, and some areas may have restrictions. Always check the specific regulations and guidelines for the area you plan to visit and practice Leave No Trace principles. For more information on camping in BC, you can visit the British Columbia government website.

Several British Columbia provincial campgrounds offer electrical hookups for RVs and trailers. Some of these campgrounds include: 1. Cultus Lake Provincial Park: Located near Chilliwack, this park has a portion of its campsites with electrical hookups. 2. Porpoise Bay Provincial Park: Situated on the Sunshine Coast, this park offers a few campsites with electrical hookups. 3. Otter Lake Provincial Park: Located near Tulameen, this park has a limited number of campsites with electrical hookups. 4. Mabel Lake Provincial Park: Situated near Enderby, this park offers some campsites with electrical hookups. 5. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park: Located on Vancouver Island, China Beach Campground within this park has a limited number of campsites with electrical hookups. Please note that availability of electrical hookups may be limited, and it's always a good idea to get in touch with a campground for the most up-to-date information on their facilities and availability.

Yes, you can camp on Crown land in British Columbia, as long as you follow the guidelines and regulations set by the province. In general, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can camp on Crown land in BC for up to 14 consecutive days for free. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines to follow:

  • Stay at least 30 meters (100 feet) away from any water source.
  • Respect areas marked as "No Camping" or "No Trespassing."
  • Do not camp in areas designated for industrial or commercial use.
  • Be aware of any local fire bans or restrictions.
  • Leave no trace and pack out all garbage.
  • Respect wildlife and their habitats.

It's important to note that non-residents of Canada may need to obtain a permit to camp on Crown land in BC. Always check the specific regulations for the area you plan to camp in and follow all posted signage.

The cost to reserve a campsite in British Columbia, Canada, varies depending on the campground and the amenities offered. On average, you can expect to pay between CAD $20 to $45 per night for a basic tent or RV site. Additional fees may apply for extra services or facilities. To reserve a campsite in BC, you can visit the Discover Camping website, which handles reservations for BC Parks. For private campgrounds and unique camping experiences, you can explore Hipcamp options in British Columbia.

To book a campsite in British Columbia, visit the Discover Camping website, which is the official reservation system for BC Parks. You can search for campgrounds, check availability, and make reservations for provincial parks. For private campgrounds, you can visit Hipcamp to find and book a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and glamping experiences.

Yes, there is free camping in British Columbia. Many of these free campsites are located on Crown land, which is public land managed by the provincial government. Some popular free camping areas in BC include the Squamish region, Whistler, and Vancouver Island. Keep in mind that these free camping spots are typically more rustic and may not have amenities like running water or toilets. It's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these areas.

Yes, wild camping is legal in British Columbia. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed on Crown land, which makes up approximately 94% of the province. Campers can stay at a site for up to 14 days before having to move at least 100 meters away. It is important to follow Leave No Trace principles and adhere to any local regulations or restrictions. In addition to Crown land, BC also offers numerous provincial parks and recreation sites, where camping fees and regulations may apply. For more camping options in BC, visit Hipcamp.

Camping is allowed in British Columbia, but it is essential to check the most recent information before planning a trip. Some parks may have limited services or facilities, so it's essential to stay informed and be prepared for your camping trip.

Camping fees in BC Parks vary depending on the park, type of campsite, and the season. For frontcountry camping, fees typically range from CAD $13 to $45 per party per night. Backcountry camping fees are generally around CAD $5 to $10 per person per night. Group camping fees vary based on the size of the group and the specific park but can range from CAD $50 to $160 per night. Note that some parks may also require a reservation fee or a day-use fee in addition to the camping fees. You can find more information about BC Parks camping fees on their official fees page.

In British Columbia, many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, where you don't need a reservation. Some options include:

1. Recreational Sites: Managed by Recreation Sites and Trails BC, these campgrounds are often more rustic and remote. You can find a list of these sites on their official website.

2. Provincial Parks: Some provincial parks have first-come, first-served campgrounds. Check the BC Parks website for details on specific parks.

3. Crown land: Dispersed camping is allowed on Crown land, which makes up approximately 94% of British Columbia. Keep in mind that there may be no facilities or services available, and you should follow Leave No Trace principles. Remember that popular areas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so it's always a good idea to arrive early or have a backup plan in case your desired campground is full.

Provinces near British Columbia

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