The best waterside camping in British Columbia

·

British Columbia’s waterside camping scene is stacked—over 960 options where the water’s always close. You’ll find campsites along lakes, rivers, and tucked beside quiet inlets. Average nights run $47, but you can snag a spot for as little as $12. Campfires are allowed, and most spots have toilets and showers, so you don’t have to rough it unless you want to. Winter snow-sports, forest hikes, and swimming in glacier-fed lakes keep things interesting. Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp (232 reviews) draws regulars with its river access and wild, open meadows. theDoighouse Earthship (178 reviews) sits near a pond and lets you sleep in a solar-powered home. Back Forty Vineyards (151 reviews) offers a spot by the water with local wine within reach. Pack for weather swings, and don’t forget your swimsuit—these sites are all about getting your feet wet.

95% (6.6K) • 62 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in British Columbia

An Experience!-Golden Ears Glamping

1. An Experience!-Golden Ears Glamping

100%
(95)
Maple Ridge, BC · 1 site
Not a suite in a house in a subdivision! 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 your personal hot tub or the riverside self-contained Glamping Tent with seclusion and a personal 2 person tub. 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"
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
theDoighouse Earthship

2. theDoighouse Earthship

99%
(381)
Qualicum Bay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship — the ultimate central basecamp for your Vancouver Island adventure. Nestled under the canopy of a beautiful West Coast temperate rainforest in Qualicum Bay, theDoighouse Earthship is a peaceful eco-retreat and the perfect jump-off point for exploring in any direction. Our campsites are mindfully scattered across two acres of our larger woodland property. They are designed to offer a peaceful forest experience—spread out enough that you won't be bothered by neighbouring camping sounds, while still letting you catch a friendly glimpse of tent lights through the trees. 📍 Great Location on Vancouver Island Our spot is ideal for both adventurers and peace-seekers. Use us as your ideal base to explore local trails, visit the iconic ancient giants at Cathedral Grove, and take an inspiring tour of our Earthship before you head further west to explore Tofino or journey up north. Located about an hour north of Nanaimo, we’re a great stopover for guests travelling to or from the mainland. Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive if skiing is on your itinerary, and we’re also well-positioned for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. 🥾 Hiking, Beaches, and Outdoor Fun Nearby Explore forest trails, a children’s playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. The Lighthouse Country area offers endless outdoor adventures, including: • Sunny Beach • Spider and Horne Lakes • Horne Lake Caves (great for climbers and explorers) Hikers can use the AllTrails app to find the Lighthouse Country Trail at our doorstep, including the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. (Urban legend says the running shoes were lost—not the runners!) ⛺ Stay your way: Lodging in the Forest Whether you are looking for an off-grid cabin experience or pitching a classic camp under the canopy, we have a spot for you: • Cozy Tiny Cabins: Unwind and relax in one of our intimate, rustic forest cabins. • Forest RV Sites: Park your rig right at the quiet edge of our woodland. • Garden & Under the Canopy Tent Sites: Pitch your tent amidst our green spaces and trees. While you are here, wander the property and enjoy our young permaculture food forest, filled with fruit trees, hazelnuts, berries, and other good things growing with care. 🌎 Discover Our Off-Grid Earthship Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, earth, pop cans, and glass bottles? Our Earthship - currently under construction - is an exploration of low-impact, off-grid living in an energy-efficient home built from recycled materials. This project is rooted in a love for the planet, people, and sharing abundance—which is why we don’t raise our rates for holidays or long weekends. 🔍 Book a Private Earthship Tour (Optional) Guests can book a private Earthship tour, where Tony will spend a couple of hours sharing the story behind the Doighouse project and answering all your questions. 🌿 Come Visit, Tour, and Stay We look forward to hosting you. Susan and Tony Doig
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Pacific Ranch

3. Pacific Ranch

97%
(79)
Victoria, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
On a hillside property in the heart of Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Ranch offers amazing views, stream-side forest walks, and private tranquillity. Driving in along the winding and steep driveway, you will arrive on our unique property and find rocky, moss-covered bluffs, and fern-carpeted forests. Across these settings are two private campsites for one to choose from. There are no toilet facilities at our site so you will have to bring your own toilet. There is a lot to do in the area for outdoor adventurers, including walks along the Galloping Goose Trail, many local beaches, as well as biking and hiking trails right off of the ranch. You can visit picturesque local villages close by, as well as head to one of the local lakes for a day of swimming. Bring your own tents and van/truck campers. We can accommodate vehicles under 22 feet (water hookup available). You will be parking on loose gravel and the site requires levelling. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban.
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
Mountain Air

4. Mountain Air

100%
(5)
Chilliwack, BC · 1 site
Best-Kept Secret Enjoy a single RV site offering a peaceful, private space all to yourself, on our property in the community of postcreek. Surrounded by fir and pine trees, this forest retreat features majestic mountain views and is located just 2 km from spectacular Chilliwack Lake. Explore the numerous hiking trails in one of British Columbia's most beautiful natural settings. Enjoy world-famous fishing on the Vedder River, or bring your boat to Chilliwack Lake for a day of fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and other water activities. ATV trails are also nearby for even more outdoor adventure. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, countless adventures await in this beautiful paradise.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Peaceful Vibes Camping (off-grid)

5. Peaceful Vibes Camping (off-grid)

100%
(15)
Seymour Arm, BC · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Private sites of various sizes, river trails, and mostly treed space. Relaxed and community oriented. Note we are off-grid with no hook-ups of any kind. Peaceful Vibes Campground is place to relax and enjoy the most remote part of the Shuswap Lake. There are trails to explore, a river to play in, and we are 6mins from town of Seymour Arm and 6mins from a fantastic beach (silver beach--see pics below).
Pets
Toilets
Wilkinson Lakefront

6. Wilkinson Lakefront

83%
(3)
Riondel, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Waterfront camping next to marina with boat launch and public beach. Plenty of space with half acre, only 3 camping spots available for booking. Larger parties, events or gatherings must contact before booking. Shared use of outdoor kitchen containing sink, bbq, propane camping oven with three stove top burners, toilet, canoe, hammocks, and small cabin rental available as well. Sites are spacious with a limit of two tents. Parking is provided. Fire department , ambulance bay, small market, R.O cafe, library, all within walking distance.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Living Large on Chilliwack River

7. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(164)
Chilliwack, BC · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Camping is open and the weather is beautiful! Enjoy the beautiful acres right on the Chilliwack River! A wonderful family-friendly (including pets!) getaway with endless activities nearby. (no pets allowed for glamping) Our camp sites are great for anyone wanting to camp, including groups. Walk in tenting only. We have Glamping tents as well - we provide everything except your food, drinks and personal items! They are situated beside the river, with a eating bar overlooking the river and with beautiful views. For the romantic couple - but we also can accomodate a small child (inquire). Our campsite is available in the spring and summer and is just 20 minutes from the city of Chilliwack, BC. We provide a fire pit and campfires are allowed as long as there is no fire ban. (then you can have a propane campfire) The sites are quite private but there will be other campers nearby. We try to keep a large amount of space between sites and some are separated by trees. We are a walk in tent only site- parking is very close, 30 second walk. We can also provide access to electricity so you can charge your phones or other devices if needed. There is no cell reception, but we do have wifi that you can use. Potable water is available. We supply natural spring water but you must bring your own jug. We live in an adventure playground! Activities nearby include hiking, white rapid river rafting, fishing, watching bald eagles, Cultus Lake water slides and adventure park, mountain biking, cold plunge and sauna retreats, wine tastings and more! The stargazing at night is beautiful as there is no light pollution here. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp

8. Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp

99%
(491)
Canal Flats, BC · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Hosted by Berny and Stuart Moore, Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp is nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountain Trench in Southeastern BC, just a short drive from Lussier natural hot springs, hiking, boating, canoeing, golfing, breathtaking WhiteSwan Lake, Premier Lake, Findlay Falls and the Kootenay and Columbia rivers. Questions . Many people ask… 1) .”How far are we from Banff… 2 hours of a beautiful drive that includes kootenay national park. 2)..Important ❗️❗️Please do not bring firewood from other areas to our camp as our property is heavily treed forest and we do not want any transfer of raw wood bugs. We offer $10 generous bundles of wood. 3) When you book, One tent or RV and one vehicle per site. If you are looking to book for a group of friends/family area, we can help with that.. prior to booking. Also, we reserve the right to put you in the best possible spot to fit in a proper site for what you are camping in and what your needs are. Often people book a site that’s completely wrong for them… but that’s ok… we will fix it. 😊 4) Smoking only on sand at sites and nowhere else on our property Please use a container to hold your butts. 5) Noise restrictions after 9pm…no music or loud behaviour after that. Strictly enforced. We value respect in the camp for all campers. 6) Once you book, we will reply back with important information on the phone number you booked with. Please check for our messages to you for a smooth booking and arrival. Campers… please do Not put any garbage, of any kind, and especially diapers in our pit toilets. . thank you Blacksmith Landing is a safe, spacious and peaceful camp where minimal environmental impact is encouraged. We are faithful stewards and respect our beautiful forested lands and animals Our expectation is that campers will also share this respect for our Eco systems in an environmentally friendly way. As we take this Hipcamp journey together, we are finding little things we can do to make your stay better…Like offering a complimentary table at your site should you require one…. or adjusting the site you booked to one that would perhaps fit your needs much better as we know it’s difficult to choose a perfect site on line. If you forgot something, we probably have one…. Feel free to ask.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Murphy's Gold Creek Ranch

9. Murphy's Gold Creek Ranch

95%
(236)
Wardner, BC · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
I sold a business in Toronto and moved West in 1990 and drove all over North America looking for a new place to settle and raise a family. While camping in the Kootenay's I found this oasis and bought it. I have raised a family living totally off the grid since and love it. The water here is so clean and and the air is so fresh is why I stay. The night sky is so hard to explain it has to be seen to believe. Come check it out and you will agree. Learn more about this land: Enjoy camping on our 25-acre property just outside of Cranbrook, BC! We have multiple spots to choose from. You can camp beside the creek, in an open field, or up high with beautiful views of the valley. It all depends on your preferences and the privacy that you desire. We welcome tent and RV campers. If you're bringing an RV, there are sites that do not require levelling and we can accommodate vehicles up to 75ft in length. Bring your animals - there are a lot of great spaces for them to play! Our yard is equipped for horseback riding with a horse ring and stable.  The property is a great step-off point for ATV, dirt bikes, horseback and hiking adventures.  Potable water, toilet, picnic table, wifi and showers are available. Pets welcome, campfires permitted.  We are a 15-20 minute drive to Cranbrook. As the basecamp of the Kootenay Rockies, Cranbrook has it all - From all the trails one can dream of to multiple award-winning golf courses all within a 20-minute drive out of town, Cranbrook is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. PLEASE USE GOOGLE MAPS FOR CORRECT DIRECTIONS I look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

10. Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

100%
(6)
Creston, BC · 1 site
Unique Mountain Retreat in Creston Valley’s Community Forest Perched on 22 private, secluded acres bordering the vast public-use forest of Arrow and Goat Mountain, this unique geodesic dome offers an unforgettable three-season glamping and comfort-camping escape with panoramic valley views. Enjoy complete privacy: only one group is booked at a time, giving you the entire clearing and surrounding acreage all to yourselves. Property Highlights and Amenities: * Furnished Geodesic Dome: Queen bed and convertible single pullout (comfortably sleeps 3 inside the dome). Additional space and clearing available for group camping, RVs, and tents. * Large Screened Gazebo: Shaded, bug-free sanctuary for outdoor dining, board games, and relaxing during warm summer afternoons. * Private 9-Hole Disc Golf: Custom 9-hole disc golf course woven directly through the property landscape. * Outdoor Solar Shower: Sun-heated shower deck with mountain views (warmest on sunny afternoons; cooler in mornings/shoulder seasons; available June–August). Please bring your own towels. * Scenic Outhouse: Clean, functional outhouse with perhaps the best panoramic valley view in the region! * Campfire & BBQ: Propane BBQ provided. Large wood fire pit with cooking grill (free firewood included) + propane fire bowl for use during regional summer fire bans. * Potable Water & Power: Fresh drinking water provided in jugs inside the dome. Solar power bank available to charge phones/USB devices. Excellent cellular reception. * Trail Access: Endless hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and wildlife watching right off the property into Crown forest land. 15 minutes to downtown Creston, Duck Lake, Kootenay Lake, and local river swimming holes. --- What to Expect (Comfort Glamping vs. Hotel): This is an authentic off-grid glamping experience (similar to a yurt, safari tent, or oTENTik)—not an insulated hotel room. Guests who arrive with a camping mindset and prepare for mountain weather have a wonderful 5-star experience! * Dome Temperatures: The dome functions like a sturdy, hard-walled tent. In the summer, direct daytime sun warms the dome up like a greenhouse—plan to be out swimming, hiking, exploring wineries, or relaxing in the shaded gazebo! Once the sun dips behind the ridge in late afternoon, mountain breezes cool it down quickly for crisp, restful sleeping. In cooler spring/fall months, the indoor temp matches the outside mountain air—check the forecast and pack warm layers, cozy socks, and a toque (beanie). * Diesel Heater: A small diesel heater is provided in the dome to take the chill off brisk mornings, but note the uninsulated dome does not hold heat continuously. * Solar Shower: Water is heated naturally by the sun. It is wonderfully warm on sunny afternoons, but will be brisk in the morning or during overcast weather. * Towels: Towels are NOT provided—please pack your own bath and beach towels. * Bugs & Spray: Nature happens in the forest. We apply natural organic garlic suppression around camp, but mosquitoes vary with weather. A screened gazebo is provided for bug-free meals; please bring your own bug spray/repellent. * Utensils: Basic disposable cups, plates, and cutlery are provided along with the BBQ. Feel free to bring your favorite coffee mug or special camp cookware!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Akasha

11. Akasha

100%
(2)
Mesachie Lake, BC · 1 site
RELAX - REJUVENATE - CONNECT Escape the noise and reconnect with what matters. Nestled among towering old-growth trees and the soothing sounds of the nearby river, our off-grid retreat offers a chance to completely slow down. Whether you’re seeking adventure, rest, or a peaceful reset, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and more connected than ever. Choose to stay in our fully furnished glamping geodesic dome or pitch a tent.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Kootenay Lake Lodge Cabins & RV

12. Kootenay Lake Lodge Cabins & RV

Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC · 8 sites
The resort provides numerous RV sites, ranging from fully serviced waterfront sites to partially serviced mountainside RV parking. Sites are available on a seasonal and monthly basis, with some also reserved for short-term stays. A sani-dump is available free of charge for resort patrons. Outdoor flush toilets are located at the beach area and next to the office, which is conveniently located at the entrance to the upper campground area. At this time, we do not offer hot showers or laundry facilities—but there is always the lake. Included: • Fully serviced sites • Partially serviced sites • Sani-dump access • Flush toilets • High-speed internet at the office and in some upper sites • Creekside (upper sites) • Lakefront (full hookups)
Pets
Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Provinces near British Columbia