The best mountainous campgrounds near Courtenay, British Columbia

With the Pacific Ocean to the east, Puntledge River to the north, and Comox Lake to the west, Courtenay is swimming in summertime watersport options. Paddle along the shoreline to spot seals and orcas, float down the river in a tubing flotilla with your friends, or try your luck in a lake teeming with trout. And in Courtenay the fun doesn’t stop when summer does—as the weather cools, skiers and snowboarders head just out of town to the slopes of Mount Washington, Vancouver Island’s largest year-round alpine resort.

97% (285)

Top-rated campgrounds

With the Pacific Ocean to the east, Puntledge River to the north, and Comox Lake to the west, Courtenay is swimming in summertime watersport options. Paddle along the shoreline to spot seals and orcas, float down the river in a tubing flotilla with your friends, or try your luck in a lake teeming with trout. And in Courtenay the fun doesn’t stop when summer does—as the weather cools, skiers and snowboarders head just out of town to the slopes of Mount Washington, Vancouver Island’s largest year-round alpine resort.

97% (285)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. theDoighouse Earthship

99%

(268)

40km from Courtenay · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Qualicum Bay, BC

Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, minutes from Qualicum Bay waterfront. Our location is a haven for adventurers and peace-seekers alike, offering easy access to the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. An hour north of Nanaimo, our property is an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Many of our guests stop here for a night or two on their way to and from the mainland to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing, or if skiing is your calling, Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive away. Spend time discovering forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park here in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches, including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes. Or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! If you're into hiking, use your All Trails App to discover the Lighthouse Country Trail (at our doorstep), including the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that the running shoes were lost, not the people wearing them! You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the forest's edge, or stay in our cozy tiny cabins. Wander our gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and good stuff! Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans and glass bottles? 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. Love for the planet and people and sharing of abundance make this project come alive, and why we don’t increase our rates for holidays and long weekends. Book a private Earthship tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project and answering any and all questions you may have. On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) Come visit, tour, and stay. Susan and Tony Doig

2. Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

100%

(4)

71km from Courtenay · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Garden Bay, BC

Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, North Vancouver brings you to the Sechelt Peninsula, and just an hour's travel North up the coast is the Pender Harbour district. With beautiful scenery, hiking, kayaking, fishing, lakes and beaches, it's no wonder it's referred to as the Venice of the North. Choose your glamping experience: bunkie cabins, 38' 2 bedroom park model trailer, 14 x 24 offered safari tent, or bring your RV and set up at one of our serviced RV sites.

3. Strongwater Camping and Cabins

97%

(29)

77km from Courtenay · 10 sites · Lodging · Egmont, BC

A magical experience awaits you on the majestic Sunshine Coast of British Columbia near the Village of Egmont. Nestle into our modern rustic cabins or set up camp beneath the towering evergreens. We, your hosts, and our yard-full of farm friends live just up the hill, but we sneak out often to welcome our guests. Strongwater Camping and Cabins offers bookings year-round. Choose from our 8 rustic cabins or 8 large campsites to accommodate your next relaxing get-away or refreshing retreat. Bookings are usually a 2-night minimum. 1-night may be available at the discretion of the Hosts. New to our accommodations are the SkookumBus and a Glamping Tent (summer only)! Our hand-built cabins provide a simply magical experience, with warm, comfy beds and bedside table, a fan for summer or a heater for winter. Nearly every cabin features a small table and chairs and a mini-fridge plus an outdoor fire pit and a picnic table. The cabins’ decks are surrounded by forest. Firewood is available for $30/wheelbarrow on site when available (unless we have a fire ban.) All campsites include the fire pit and picnic table. Everyone has easy access to the spa-like washrooms with coin-operated hot showers and flush toilets. Children 8 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult in the Wash house. There’s a dish washing station in the center of the Wash House where you can refill your water jugs and bottles or wash dishes. Please do not use for washing hair or laundry or tooth brushing. We ask that you conserve water and keep the Wash House clean. If a peaceful experience is what you seek, enjoy the restful, soothing atmosphere of the forest. Learn to really appreciate the simple things in life. Take in the mountain, ocean, and lake scenery. Fishing, canoeing, or just lying on a beach. Sitting on the deck of your cozy cabin, reading a book or soaking in the magic. If you are a thrill-seeker, then adventure awaits on the turbulent waters of Skookumchuk Narrows, the rapids for which our magical place is named. Skookumchuk is an old Chinook word meaning Strong Waters. There’s a timetable for you to consult to catch the tides at the best times. Follow the link below. Hit some rigorous trails on your mountain bike, hike through forests, up mountains, or at oceanside. Take a wild ride to untouched wilderness with our neighbouring Adventure Boat Tours.

4. Sonora Island Cabin

70km from Courtenay · 1 site · Lodging · Campbell River, BC

3 bed Cabin built on a bluff among the maples. Cabin includes 3 double beds. One is a private room and two up in the loft. Boat access only! Sonora island does not have a ferry. We are currently only accepting booking from folks who have access to a private boat. Once on the island it is a 3-4km walk down the main road (which is usually muddy if there was recent rain) to the cabin. No service and no wifi. Make sure you arrange your pick up before being dropped off. Guests need to be fit to hike up to the cabin. This is a unique fully remote and off grid escape that is not for everyone! Please reach out if you have any questions! Pack in your own bedding/ sleeping bags. 5 minute walk to our private gravel beach over looking the ‘Hole in the Wall’ rapids. Our water reservoir that collects from a near by creek, feeds the house. Boiling before drinking advised. Also included in the cabin is two wood stoves, Propane stove for cooking, hot water on demand and solar power make this get away completely off the grid.

5. Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

47km from Courtenay · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Port Alberni, BC

Surrounded by tall trees on Vancouver Island this property is scenic, quiet and near to endless outdoor adventures. Located on 1 acre, fully fenced. Its a 200 metre walk to a community dock and boat launch (room to park your toys in our driveway). 500 metres from endless forest trails for hiking and biking. 10 minutes to/from the highway to Tofino (1hr30)/Parksville (1hr). A few minutes’ walk to warm and welcoming Sproat Lake. Enjoy your own outdoor space among the trees. Free Blackberries!

6. Alpine View Full Service RV PAD

55km from Courtenay · 1 site · RV · Parksville, BC

Welcome to our Fully Serviced RV Pad with breathtaking Mountain Views! Escape the city and enjoy nature. Amenities include water, 30 amp power, septic, and Wi-Fi. With ample parking available for an extra vehicle, you'll have no trouble bringing along everything you need for your adventure. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views that surround our tranquil and idyllic new-acreage community. 15 mins to Qualicum, 8 mins to Cameron Lake, and Little Qualicum Falls, 25 mins to Port Alberni! Book now for a memorable stay! (Sorry, no tent camping as we have no bathroom)

7. Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%

(9)

20km from Courtenay · 3 sites · Lodging · Black Creek, BC

We are located on a beautiful forested acreage! Our property is in the heart of Black Creek, BC. We have two RVs turned into an enclosed space available for campers. Either those who are passing by or would love to explore our little community. We are a small walk away to Saratoga Speedway and the mini gulf course. We are a short distance away from two amazing beaches; one is pristine sandy beach and the other is Miracle Beach Provincial Campground. At low tide it is the perfect place to explore. When your done from your days journey, you can walk our beautiful farm trails. Our community and property is perfect for children to explore. On our property we even have a small playground and a pond to explore. Don’t forget to feed the chickens your leftovers :) Our home away from home offers every you need. Just bring you, family or friends. We have bedding, towels, shampoo, conditioner and more!

8. Quadra Vista Mountainside Farmstay

100%

(5)

56km from Courtenay · 1 site · Lodging · Quathiaski Cove, BC

Escape to Quadra Island, away from crowds. Enjoy endless vistas and exclusive access to the calming embrace of the ocean and a short drive to pristine lakes, with nearby deer and human-made trails guiding you through untouched beauty. Experience the charm of a free-range farm where our feathered friends eagerly interact with guests. Committed to a serene atmosphere, our property is alcohol, drug, smoking, vaping, and nudity-free. In addition across of the yurt we offer an RV pad. Please note: We are located in a truly natural setting, where the forest is alive and thriving. Bugs and mosquitoes are not sprayed, and creatures like mice and harmless, non-poisonous snakes are simply part of the forest’s circle of life. Very occasionally, nature might find its way into the yurt—it is, after all, a well-equipped and cozy “luxury tent.” We do our best to keep curious visitors outside, but staying here is very much an immersive nature experience.

9. Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

70km from Courtenay · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

The owner of this property has passed away. Any existing bookings will be honored, but no future bookings will be accepted. A description of the property is below: Six open sites-each private, possible power, house water(your own cables and some hose extensions), vehicles with trailers up to 35 ft maximum as 90 degree right turn past horse stable required immediately - bucolic 9 acres cleared with mature trees for shade, equestrian zone, loping ring, rare wood chip covered path and corral entrance to creek to THE GLEN. One night stay is fine, day visits to THE GLEN welcomed....entry to garage bathroom room, gate next to tool shed through garage personnel door at right of #3 bay garage. Bathroom on left side Bay # 1. Bring your flash light at night. 600 yard path through forest to running stream "the "Path" to "Whinny The Poo's "THE GLEN".....John Howard Society Members admitted free with Children wishing to view THE GLEN. .....excellent biking , forest bike trails, one site with power site for large Motor Home, exterior bathroom facility. NO HOT TUB Learn more about this land: Bicycling "Old Growth" forest trails, walking path to flowing all seasons creek with respite sitting, paved road walks around large properties, Eagles, Plenty of foraging deer Deer, ( Lynx, Cougars), Many Rabbits, Canada Geese, Trumpeter Swans, numerous bird species, Turkey vultures No effluent connection, WiFi is good, iPhone service is ok , Longleat House is free range camping , dispersed camping sites with three designated sites. Only Site #1 and #3 may reach for power and water connection, washroom in garage for all guests. Is no hot tub for hipcampers . Closest Sani-Dump is located at RATHTREVOR Provincial Park just 3 Km . Day visits to "THE GLEN" Ok.. No minimum number of nites. Registered overnight visitors welcome to explore Foot Path to "THE GLEN" OLD GROWTH FOREST. MAXIMUM 35 FT Length tow trailer as 90 degree right turn next to horse corral required to enter camping zones, registration of all persons is mandatory at front door of home.

10. Quadra Vista Farmstay- RV pad

56km from Courtenay · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Campbell River, BC

Fully serviced, all-included RV pad. (electricity, water, sewage, wifi) Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times outside the RV/camper, as chickens roam freely on the property. Also, included is a spacious shed for storage. 22FT maximum size trailer. 4wheel-all-wheel drive is a must-have. The pad is spacious to accommodate an exterior relaxing space for a table and chairs, lounge chairs, etc In addition, across from the RV pad, we offer a spacious Yurt with amenities and a queen-size bed (please see the listing for pricing).

11. Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

74km from Courtenay · 7 sites · Lodging · Powell River, BC

Our property is an outdoor enthusiasts haven, surrounded by walking, hiking & cycling trails on the side of one of BC's most beautiful swimming lakes. We offer onsite boat and paddleboard rentals as well as a private dock, seasonal onsite yoga classes. Our property also features a large lagoon that doubles as a natural wildlife and bird sanctuary and the property is home to hundreds of birds, both wild and tame. You'll also see beavers, otters, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and more! Our renowned onsite restaurant, La Trattoria Italiana, offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine, with both indoor lakeview dining as well as outdoor seating on our covered waterfront patio.

12. 2 Tide on the Hillside

88%

(4)

74km from Courtenay · 1 site · Lodging · Egmont, BC

Camper favorites near Courtenay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%

(9)

20km from Courtenay · 3 sites · Lodging · Black Creek, BC

We are located on a beautiful forested acreage! Our property is in the heart of Black Creek, BC. We have two RVs turned into an enclosed space available for campers. Either those who are passing by or would love to explore our little community. We are a small walk away to Saratoga Speedway and the mini gulf course. We are a short distance away from two amazing beaches; one is pristine sandy beach and the other is Miracle Beach Provincial Campground. At low tide it is the perfect place to explore. When your done from your days journey, you can walk our beautiful farm trails. Our community and property is perfect for children to explore. On our property we even have a small playground and a pond to explore. Don’t forget to feed the chickens your leftovers :) Our home away from home offers every you need. Just bring you, family or friends. We have bedding, towels, shampoo, conditioner and more!

Quadra Vista Mountainside Farmstay

100%

(5)

56km from Courtenay · 1 site · Lodging · Quathiaski Cove, BC

Escape to Quadra Island, away from crowds. Enjoy endless vistas and exclusive access to the calming embrace of the ocean and a short drive to pristine lakes, with nearby deer and human-made trails guiding you through untouched beauty. Experience the charm of a free-range farm where our feathered friends eagerly interact with guests. Committed to a serene atmosphere, our property is alcohol, drug, smoking, vaping, and nudity-free. In addition across of the yurt we offer an RV pad. Please note: We are located in a truly natural setting, where the forest is alive and thriving. Bugs and mosquitoes are not sprayed, and creatures like mice and harmless, non-poisonous snakes are simply part of the forest’s circle of life. Very occasionally, nature might find its way into the yurt—it is, after all, a well-equipped and cozy “luxury tent.” We do our best to keep curious visitors outside, but staying here is very much an immersive nature experience.

Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

70km from Courtenay · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

The owner of this property has passed away. Any existing bookings will be honored, but no future bookings will be accepted. A description of the property is below: Six open sites-each private, possible power, house water(your own cables and some hose extensions), vehicles with trailers up to 35 ft maximum as 90 degree right turn past horse stable required immediately - bucolic 9 acres cleared with mature trees for shade, equestrian zone, loping ring, rare wood chip covered path and corral entrance to creek to THE GLEN. One night stay is fine, day visits to THE GLEN welcomed....entry to garage bathroom room, gate next to tool shed through garage personnel door at right of #3 bay garage. Bathroom on left side Bay # 1. Bring your flash light at night. 600 yard path through forest to running stream "the "Path" to "Whinny The Poo's "THE GLEN".....John Howard Society Members admitted free with Children wishing to view THE GLEN. .....excellent biking , forest bike trails, one site with power site for large Motor Home, exterior bathroom facility. NO HOT TUB Learn more about this land: Bicycling "Old Growth" forest trails, walking path to flowing all seasons creek with respite sitting, paved road walks around large properties, Eagles, Plenty of foraging deer Deer, ( Lynx, Cougars), Many Rabbits, Canada Geese, Trumpeter Swans, numerous bird species, Turkey vultures No effluent connection, WiFi is good, iPhone service is ok , Longleat House is free range camping , dispersed camping sites with three designated sites. Only Site #1 and #3 may reach for power and water connection, washroom in garage for all guests. Is no hot tub for hipcampers . Closest Sani-Dump is located at RATHTREVOR Provincial Park just 3 Km . Day visits to "THE GLEN" Ok.. No minimum number of nites. Registered overnight visitors welcome to explore Foot Path to "THE GLEN" OLD GROWTH FOREST. MAXIMUM 35 FT Length tow trailer as 90 degree right turn next to horse corral required to enter camping zones, registration of all persons is mandatory at front door of home.

Quadra Vista Farmstay- RV pad

56km from Courtenay · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Campbell River, BC

Fully serviced, all-included RV pad. (electricity, water, sewage, wifi) Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times outside the RV/camper, as chickens roam freely on the property. Also, included is a spacious shed for storage. 22FT maximum size trailer. 4wheel-all-wheel drive is a must-have. The pad is spacious to accommodate an exterior relaxing space for a table and chairs, lounge chairs, etc In addition, across from the RV pad, we offer a spacious Yurt with amenities and a queen-size bed (please see the listing for pricing).

Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

74km from Courtenay · 7 sites · Lodging · Powell River, BC

Our property is an outdoor enthusiasts haven, surrounded by walking, hiking & cycling trails on the side of one of BC's most beautiful swimming lakes. We offer onsite boat and paddleboard rentals as well as a private dock, seasonal onsite yoga classes. Our property also features a large lagoon that doubles as a natural wildlife and bird sanctuary and the property is home to hundreds of birds, both wild and tame. You'll also see beavers, otters, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and more! Our renowned onsite restaurant, La Trattoria Italiana, offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine, with both indoor lakeview dining as well as outdoor seating on our covered waterfront patio.

2 Tide on the Hillside

88%

(4)

74km from Courtenay · 1 site · Lodging · Egmont, BC

Stories from the community

K

Kyle

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

Was great to get off the grid and see the Earthship!

J

Jordan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

Gorgeous property, thoughtfully designed spaces, and a very warm, welcoming, and accommodating host. The description of the cabin we stayed in captured its essence so well and we had a beautiful stay here. Thank you Cheyenne for having us!

Putting the final touches to the cabin garden.

k

kevin

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at theDoighouse Earthship

Both Susan and Tony were amazing hosts. They were always quick to answer any questions and were incredibly kind! We did end up booking a tour with them of their place which was truly spectacular and original. Me and my parter have already discussed when we will return next. We will be forever thinking about our conversations with them both sharing our love for the environment and dogs:) Looking forward to our next visit!

M

Mario

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

Very serene! Perfect for a quiet weekend. Will return!

G

Gannon

October 2025

Tent

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

Susan was an excellent host. When we first showed up we were a little lost and she guided us right to our campsite. We were camping on Thanksgiving and she invited us into her home and gave us a slice of homemade pumpkin pie (it was amazing). We left in a hurry but we would definitely go back again.

S

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

We had the best experience at strongwater cabins. The cabins are cozy and picturesque, with all the essentials. An electric kettle and mini fridge made our experience so much better, since we were able to store our food and enjoy hot drinks on the chilly autumn nights. The cabin comes with an electric fireplace that kept us perfectly toasty as well. Hot showers and clean bathrooms and area to wash our dishes was so convenient! Cheyenne has put her heart into the property and it shows. The hosts are super accommodating! We even got to use their canoe and paddle out on Waugh Lake, and check out their infrared sauna. The cherry on top is the delightful animals that live on the property. Geese, chickens, mini ponies, guinea fowl, and more. We explored the Skookumchuck trail and checked out the amazing whirlpools. Every inch of this forest is beautiful, made better by our time at the cabin. We will absolutely return! A 10/10 experience.

c

christopher

October 2025

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

Maple Cabin was comfy and all I say about the Earthship is, “Wow”!! Completely off the grid, it's a unique and wonderful building. Thank you Tony and Susan for showing us around your amazing creation and well done. Bravo!!

P

Pierre

September 2025

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

Great spot, very nice and welcoming hosts, cosy cabin 👍

K

Katie

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

We LOVED staying at Cheyenne's Treehouse Cabin. We stayed in cabin 2 for 2 nights and it was pure perfection. It truly felt like you were in a treehouse among the trees. The whole property was gorgeous and miraculously upkept. The heater kept the cabin warm at night, towels and loonies for showers were provided. Close to Skookumchuk Narrows and Skookumchuk Bakery and Cafe (the cinnamon buns are a MUST). Would absolutely recommend for a friend.

Peta

September 2025

1 night at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

This was our second time staying at Strongwater, we just love it so much. The treehouse vibe is so cozy and relaxing. Cheyenne is great to communicate with and is always so accommodating. We will be back again for sure.

Our dog loves chickens so she was happy to make new chicken friends.

Lisa

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

Danielle has thought of every detail that made our glamping vacation easy, comfortable and full of memories! Highlights were: coffee on the patio, feeding the chickens, picking blackberries and taking our dog for walks on the property. Our hosts were so friendly and responsive to any questions we had. A great place to unplug and unwind!

a

aria

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

Great place. beautiful cabins and great hosts. Will come back again.

Laura

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tranquility by the Lake

Beautiful and quiet place with all that you need. Jen and her family are very kind and helpful.

B

Ben

August 2025

38 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

Garden Bay is an absolutely beautiful place. Michelle was an excellent host and the location of the camp is just right.

C

Cheryll

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

This was our second time booking Whimsical Red Barn and it was just as wonderful as the first! Danielle, Warren and their family are such warm and welcoming hosts—they put so much heart into this space, and it really shows. Their place is cozy, charming, and full of thoughtful touches that make it feel special. It’s just one of those places that makes you feel good just to be there- relaxing and uplifting. Just what we needed before school starts for our kids. We loved everything about this place. Way better than a hotel.

K

Katie

August 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

Michelle and her husband were great hosts. The trailer had everything we needed. We really enjoyed our girls weekend away.

A

Andre

August 2025

1 night at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

I loved being up in the forest, waking up surrounded by trees. The double doors that open up to the front deck make the whole room feel a part of the outside world which was amazing! Sitting on the deck reading and enjoying a glass of wine was spectacular! Friendly hosts who run a great pizza truck and serve ice cream! Short walk to the harbor and trail to Skookumchuck Narrows. A truly beautiful piece of this magical part of the Sunshine Coast!

K

Kirsten

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

14 nights at Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

We absolutely loved the peace and quiet at this place. It's walking distance to Provincial Park which was just lovely being able to take our puppers on evening strolls to watch the sunset on the water. The hosts are lovely people! And have done such an amazing job developing the property. It's a bit steep, we were happy to have 4WD.

S

Sean

August 2025

With pets

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

An absolutely wonderful stay with Susan and Tony, amazing property just as advertised we had only a short one night stay but would highly recommend!

M

Madison

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

Absolutely adorable, cozy and practical setup. I dream of hosting a party here. Two completely separate living spaces, separated by a comfy covered seating area full of arts & crafts and boardgames. The owners are beyond lovely people. Would return in a heartbeat.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best mountainous camping near Courtenay guide

Where to go

Horne Lake Cave Park

Less than an hour south of Courtenay on Highway 19 waits one of the coolest (and largely undiscovered) underground experiences you’ll ever have— exploring the caves at Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park. While these are wild, untouched caves without walkways, lights, or handrails, expert guides lead the way through echoing chambers and tight fissures.

Hornby Island

Known as the Gulf Island with the most spectacular white-sand beaches, warmest swimming spots, and colourful locals, Hornby Island may be off the beaten track but it’s a track worth taking. To get there, drive 20 minutes south along Highway 19 to Buckley Bay and take two short ferry rides. Visit the Hornby Island Co-op for supplies and a slice of island life with food stalls, artisan markets, and live music happening throughout the year.

Cumberland

Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Courtenay, tucked down in the foothills of the Beaufort Mountains, Cumberland is the spot for mountain biking. With more than 80 kilometres of well-maintained single-track trails, bike enthusiasts are rewarded for their efforts with pristine forests and epic mountain vistas. This vibrant community is home to a wave of new businesses opening up along the charming historic streets to serve outdoor lovers.

When to go

Summers are short, warm, and sometimes quite cloudy, while winters are long, cold, and wet. The best time to enjoy warm-weather pursuits in Courtenay and the Comox Valley is mid-July to mid-August, while snow-focussed alpine activities are doable from December to early April. The area is the island’s epicentre for skiing and mountain biking, meaning school holidays are very busy.

Know before you go

Courtenay is a 2.5-hour drive from Victoria, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It’s just over an hour’s drive from Nanaimo, the island’s second-largest city.
Ferries from the mainland (Vancouver) service Nanaimo (Departure Bay) and Victoria (Swartz Bay). There is also a ferry route to Courtenay from Powell River on the Sunshine Coast.
Main highways are well maintained, but many of the secondary roads can be rough. Make sure your vehicle is up to the challenge.