The best camping in Cowichan Valley

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In the southern region of Vancouver Island is a scenic valley where temperate climates create a unique cultural center: the Cowichan Valley.  This area has the right combination of rich soils and mild temperatures to host vineyards, orchards, and productive farmlands year-round—not to mention incredible camping.Between visits to cideries and artisan markets, hit the trails to experience the Cowichan Valley’s hiking, mountain biking, and Cowichan Valley camping, from secluded tent campsites and amenity-rich RV parks to cozy cabins. From lowland routes to steep mountain climbs, the valley has something for every skill level.

95% (6.2K) 190 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Cowichan Valley

Shadow Mountain RV & Campground

1. Shadow Mountain RV & Campground

78%
(628)
Port Angeles, WA · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
!~PLEASE READ EACH SITE DESCRIPTION ~ LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE~! Whether you are looking to spend some quality time with your family or enjoy a weekend away with friends, you are going to find the perfect camping at Shadow Mountain Campground! SORRY NO WIFI Enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, or boating across the street at Lake Sutherland or Lake Cresent! Rent our newly added Kayak Rentals. We have a convenient General Store and Gas Station on-site with Firewood, beer/wine, ICE, grocery items and much more... We have beautiful campsites, entertaining activities nearby, and quality staff to ensure that your Olympic National Park camping vacation is all you need to relax and unwind! Come spend a weekend, a week, or a season and let us show you what we have to offer! Did I mention HOT SHOWERS and LAUNDRY FACILITY!!! Keep in mind we are on Hwy 101 (2 lane Hwy) at Lake Sutherlin so road noise is a factor, some seasons more than others, ear plugs available in-store if needed. The views are Amazing!
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Dawleys SolDuc River Campground

2. Dawleys SolDuc River Campground

98%
(1260)
Beaver, WA · 34 sites · Tents, RVs
Our private Campground is centrally located on the Olympic Peninsula. We are a Campground, we are not a Hip Camp, we just advertise through them. Paying for extra days or rentals, wood, propane fire-pits, are done at pay station at Campground or by calling the office. We have 21 tent sites on the West side of Pavel Road close to the river. 13 are river view sites. We have 15 tent sites and most are bigger tent sites, ones that are big enough for a RV on the East side of Pavel Road, Use our website dawleysrivercamping.com for details. We have beautiful woods with trees, ferns, moss, and the Sol Duc River runs adjacent to our property. Beautiful views of the Sol Duc River from some of the sites and a short walk to the right of the parking lot to the Fish Hatchery, stay to the right there will be a boat launch and beach to fish and play. Just a 20-minute drive to the Pacific Ocean and a 20-minute drive to the straits of Juan de Fuca. Just a one-hour drive from our site to Cape Flattery, short hike down to a rocky viewpoint overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Tatoosh Island, which is the farthest NW Point in the Continental US! We have sites with beautiful river views, 9 walk-in sites, and 12 drive-up sites. 4 of the walk-in sites are river views 4, 5, 6 and 8. The drive-in sites with river views are 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 20, and 21. There are more sites on the other part of the Campground. The Fish Hatchery is right next door and has a boat launch, beach, and lots of fishing. The river at the Hatchery is great to float on, fish, and just play. Activities nearby include: Pacific Ocean beaches, Pleasant Lake, Crescent Lake, Beaver Lake, Snyder Lookout for stargazing, Olympic Discovery Trail, kayak floating, the area is great for hiking, biking, mushroom and fossil hunting, wildlife viewing, ATV trails, and much, much more, come have some fun.
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Wandering Joy Campground

3. Wandering Joy Campground

98%
(890)
Port Angeles, WA · 12 sites
Located less than 10 minutes from Lake Crescent, directly across US-101 from Lake Sutherland, and 20 minutes west of downtown Port Angeles, Wandering Joy Campground is the perfect homebase for your Olympic National Park adventures! Wander the property trails to discover giant moss-covered boulders, aged big leaf maple, towering grand fir, and western red cedar. Heavily forested with mixed conifer species, dense alder stands, and a rich understory, you'll enjoy a vibrant habitat for wildlife, especially birds. We are committed to protecting the health and wellness of this magical forest and kindly ask that you pack out all trash, exercise extreme caution with campfires, be a respectful neighbor to fellow campers, and leave only good vibes behind! PLEASE NOTE: * We are primarily a tenting campground. Not all sites are suitable for car-camping/rooftop tents as the parking may not be level and/or large enough for your rig. Please send us a message PRIOR to booking and we’d be happy to recommend any available sites that may fit your need. *All of our sites have their own shape, size, and characteristics, no two are alike! Please refer to the site descriptions and pictures to assist you in choosing a site for your adventure. If in doubt, just send a message and we’ll help steer you in the right direction. Your experience is important to us! *We are a small, private campground. As such, our site limits are set to 2 ppl, 1 vehicle, 1 tent. You can select to add up to 2 more ppl on select sites, for an additional charge. Our sites are simply not large enough to be considered group sites. For your comfort, we recommended that you book multiple sites if you have a larger party. As always, we can help you choose the best site for your party, so don’t hesitate to reach out! * 4WD/AWD drive recommended for Sites 9-11 due to the steady uphill gravel access road. Especially recommended for vans and heavier vehicles.
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Picnic table
Olympic National Forest

4. Olympic National Forest

95%
(60)
National forest in Washington · 417 sites
Visit the beach, the mountains and the forest—all in one day, at the most beautiful place anywhere.
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Olympic National Park

5. Olympic National Park

96%
(511)
National park in Washington · 910 sites
Explore glaciers, hot springs, and rainforest in the jewel of Western Washington.
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Goat & Rose Farms

6. Goat & Rose Farms

100%
(1)
Ladysmith, BC · 1 site
We are Goat & Rose, and we welcome you to our quiet rural equine property tucked away in Cedar, BC, just a few minutes from Highway 1 and Nanaimo Airport. We invite you to stay in our newly built rustic cabin, situated at the back of our property and perfect for one guest or a couple. The cabin is a cozy one-room retreat with a private washroom, hot water on-demand shower, and flush toilet. It includes a mini fridge, coffee maker, basic cookware and dishes, a comfortable queen-size bed, and fresh linens and towels. There is also plenty of parking available. We are horse- and dog-friendly, and family-oriented. If needed, a single cot and/or a four-person canvas tent are available upon request. The cabin site features a private outdoor cooking area and picnic table with stunning views in every direction. You may even spot deer, rabbits, eagles, the neighborhood Highland cows, or our neighbors' rescued goats. *Two-night minimum stay. However, we're happy to discuss your needs and accommodate special circumstances when possible. We look forward to meeting you and are happy to answer any questions!
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sol duc rainforest retreat

7. sol duc rainforest retreat

93%
(1142)
Port Angeles, WA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay at our private piece of rain forest paradise. Our 9 acres of forest is adjacent to the Olympic national park and the Olympic discovery trail. Camp next to Lake Crescent and the Sol Duc river/ hot springs, immersed in the Olympic rain forest, next to a bubbling creek. There is hiking , biking and boating in all directions. Each camp is semi secluded, surrounded in ferns and old growth trees. With many trails that loop around and covered outdoor kitchens, its a great spot to chill and cook or explore the forests thousands of ferns and bubbling brooks . Located a mile and a half from Lake Crescent, adjacent to the Olympic Discovery Trail and the Olympic National Park, our property is a perfect gathering point to explore the possibilities of the peninsula. You will think you're in the park.
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Lyre River Retreat

8. Lyre River Retreat

98%
(168)
Port Angeles, WA · 6 sites
Come enjoy the relaxation and peacefulness of the beautiful outdoors. This 15 acre retreat lies directly on the Lyre River just 5 miles west of the quaint country town of Joyce. The 6 site flat next to the river is ideal for tent camping or camper vans. Lots of native plants to view through out the camp ground area. You may be visited by local wildlife in this secluded slice of heaven. Located just minutes from hiking trails, boating on the Strait of Juan De Fuca or freshwater lakes, the Spruce Railroad trail on Lake Crescent, and beautiful Hurricane Ridge. We look forward to sharing it with you.
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Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

9. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

76%
(272)
Tsawwassen, BC · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat. Imagine if you will, the setting sun, orange, huge, resting atop the Gulf Islands. The breeze is blowing inland today, bringing along scents of salt air, and all is well. A bald eagle glides overhead, nearly close enough to catch you up to soaring heights. Even before the sun falls out of the sky the luminescent moon rises opposite. 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 sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ Tsawwassen First Nation Traditional Territory. Conveniently located just minutes from the BC Ferries, easily accessible for travellers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat are Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, and Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded by 6 beaches, one of which you can windsurf. There are many other amenities nearby for your added convivence. Bordered by the Fraser River to the north; Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank and the United States border to the south; and the Salish Sea to the west. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on oceanfront property, to gather with friends, family, and 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 (inquire for more details, pricing etc.) The Glamping Tents are located on a large wooden deck, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and carefully selected decor to create an ambience of tranquillity. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of the tent. 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. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath an eagle’s 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 rides, paddle boarding, bird watching, nature photography, and some breathtaking 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 tranquillity and personal growth.
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Coyote Meadow Basecamp

10. Coyote Meadow Basecamp

98%
(101)
Port Angeles, WA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
5 Acre open field centrally located to Port Angeles, Olympic National Park, nearby beaches, Lake Crescent, and the Elwha River. Only a couple miles away you’ll find world class mountain biking trails at Dry Hill, the Zoo Loops, and the Adventure Route. The paved Olympic Discovery trail is only 1 mile down the road.
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Potable water
Secluded Olympic Beachfront Retreat

11. Secluded Olympic Beachfront Retreat

95%
(53)
Sekiu, WA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our little slice of heaven! This property has been part of our family’s story for years. Originally, we bought it as a summer getaway for fishing vacations, a place to build sandcastles, paddle the bay, and soak up those priceless family moments. This isn’t your typical vacation spot. Tucked amongst towering spruce and cedars, lush park-like spaces, and a private stretch of sandy beach, it’s the kind of place that takes your breath away. Sure, you’ll see stunning photos, but trust us being here is something else entirely. The moment you step foot on the property, the chaos of city life melts away, replaced by the soothing sounds of waves, birdsong, and rustling trees. For weddings, the natural beauty here is unmatched. Imagine exchanging vows with a backdrop of mountains, ocean views, and the gentle glow of golden hour lighting everything just right. It’s a setting so serene, it feels like nature itself is celebrating your love. Whether you’re staying in one of our beachfront rentals—some perfect for couples, others for families—or visiting as a guest for a wedding, this place is designed for connection. Connection to loved ones, connection to nature, and, most importantly, connection to the peace we so often forget exists. We’d love to welcome you to this place we hold so close to our hearts. Whether you’re here to tie the knot, catch the big one, or just breathe in the fresh, salty air, we hope you leave feeling a little lighter, a little more connected, and a lot more at peace.
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Glamping at the Gateway

12. Glamping at the Gateway

95%
(325)
Port Angeles, WA · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
Great base camp where the mountains meet the sea on the Olympic Peninsula. So many great sights in a short distance from camp. Salt creek recreation area is a short 3 miles away, beautiful views of the Straits of Juan de Fuca. NEW SHOWER on site!!! Tide pools to explore and WW2 bunkers. Striped peak trailhead offers panoramic views. Spruce Railroad trail to Devils punchbowl is 3 miles away as well as Log Cabin Resort. The resort offers paddle boats and kayaks for rent. (Closed for winter months) A restaurant and beautiful views of Lake Crescent await you. Hurricane Ridge visitor center is 16 miles away explore the glaciers of the Olympic mountains. Check out the Joyce General store for all your needs including wood for the fire and a laundry mat within 1 mile from the property. 2 night min stay in the RV no fireworks on property. No pets allowed in the RV RV has toilet, NEW OUTDOOR SHOWER, all bedding, comfy beds, dishes, cooking and cleaning supplies. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, 1 gallon drinking water and instant oatmeal are supplied. corn hole, charcoal bbq (not during burn ban), picnic tables, small zip line, rope swing, tire swing, port a potty, and fire pit are all in the communal area. During burn bans a propane fire ( included) is supplied in the firepit communal area only. 4 people per spot with a 5.00 charge per night for each additional up to max 6 people per site. please go to extras for the charge pick a unit per person per night. 1 car per site 5.00 charge per car per night max 2. please pay thru the extras.
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Crescent Beach & RV

13. Crescent Beach & RV

94%
(357)
Port Angeles, WA · 67 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Crescent Beach & RV! We are a privately-owned and operated campground and RV park located in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, just west of Port Angeles. With a wide range of accommodations, such as full and partial hook-up RV sites, tent sites, and rental cabins - our park is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. In addition to stunning views and access to our 1/2 mile sandy beach, we offer a variety of amenities, including a volleyball court, horse-shoe pits, camp store, and quarter-operated laundry facilities & quarter-operated hot showers (open 7am-9pm during the summer, 9am-5pm during the fall/winter). No need to limit stays to the summer, we are open year-round for overnight stays as well as day-use. Popular activities include walking on the beach, flying kites, building sandcastles, surfing and paddleboarding, birdwatching, playing with seaweed, checking out the tide pools at Tongue Point Marine Life Sanctuary, and hiking Striped Peak - to name a few. Our proximity to Olympic National Park and other local attractions make us a great base for exploring the nearby areas. Whether you're in a trailer, sprinter van, tent or even your car - we have a spot for you! Come and visit Crescent Beach and RV, where the staff feel like friends and the beach feels like home.
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Full hookups
The Rustic Retreat

14. The Rustic Retreat

92%
(73)
Port Angeles, WA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Come enjoy the serenity of The Rustic Retreat. Located on 50+ private wooded acres, over a mile off the highway our tent sites will give you the peace and quiet you are looking for. The night sky is clear and perfect for star gazing. This place truly is a piece of heaven. As of right now we have large and small tent sites. There are ponds to look at and eventually they will be stocked with fish. The campsites are not completely flat and may have a few small holes so please be careful and watch your step. A lot of this property has been left natural for years and we are trying to keep it as natural as possible. We do suggest sleeping on an air mattress or camping pad for your comfort. We are just starting out so this place will get better and better as time goes on. We at The Rustic Retreat value your privacy and we try not to interact with campers unless you request. The Peninsula Northwest has some amazing activities including hiking, biking, fishing, crabbing, shrimping, whale watching, beach combing, Kayaking, and so much more. The Rustic Retreat is about 20 minutes from downtown Port Angeles and the Victoria Ferry and about 30 minutes from Lake Crescent. It is the perfect place to stay in between everything. There is a communal firepit can be used by all campers until the Clallam County burn ban comes into affect. During the burn ban, the firepit will be closed off. We also have walking trails, more lighting and parking. We have not been able to get fish in the ponds yet, however some wild ducks stop by now and again to say hi. The hiking trail head is down the dirt road, west of the porta potty, it is roughly 316 yards to the trail head. Walking and biking is allowed. Trail is very natural so it is uneven, please be careful. 2026 Update: The property The Rustic Retreat Campground in on, is for sale. If the property gets sold we will ask to close after September. If you are interested in more information about the sale, just ask. You can get The Rustic Retreat Swag at https://the-rustic-retreat-store.printify.me/
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Maple Tree

15. Maple Tree

96%
(42)
Salt Spring Island, BC · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We have two full Large R.V. sites with 30 and 50 amp power service, sewer, water, WIFI service, Portable Washroom. Private land in residential neighborhood. areas for 2 Tenting spots also. 5 mins to Town of Ganges, Local shopping, banks, restaurants, golf course, Boating rentals, Fishing, Wineries, art galleries, waterfront, Hiking trails, Amazing Island views, and Saturday Markets. Summer live entertainment in town. Ocean boardwalks. Or just unwind in a private setting.
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Full hookups
Murphy’s Farm

16. Murphy’s Farm

98%
(66)
Parksville, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
we are within a10-15 minute walk to Coombs famous Goats on the Roof market. 10 minute drive from the sandy beach’s of Parksville and lovely Qualicum.Beach Qualicum falls and Englishman River Falls. Many other attractions We are on route to Port Alberni and Tofino Our lovely grass area looks out over our paddock that contains 3 horses and 2 mini donkeys We also have 3 dogs and 2 cats Our dogs are friendly We have a 2 year old bernedoodle, a 5 year old mini Aussie Shepard and a 15 year old maltese shitz zhu We have a hot outdoor shower available and potable (limited) water (outdoor sink) A locked gate for your safety a fire pit with propane fire ( bring your own large propane tank) and an quiet eating area We provide potable water from a tote Pets allowed on leash No Visitors Please One vehicle per site unless previous arrangements made
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Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

17. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

100%
(102)
Nanoose Bay, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Wild Coast has 2 nightly campsites for you to enjoy. Site one is a large, flat open gravel base. And Site 2 is a large, flat grass based site. Please note you must have your own trailer or tent. We’re a 5-10 minute drive to Rathtrevor beach/Parksville, Englishman River. We are right in the middle of an extensive trail network perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding.  Both sites have plenty of space for RVs and trailers - we can accommodate vehicles up to 45ft in length. 30 amp Electrical and potable water hookups are available on both sites. WI-FI onsite as well. There is a flush toilet and sink available in our farm store that is available for guest use. No shower yet, but we are working on it! The property is private yet close to all amenities. Local favorite Rocking Horse Pub is a quick walk next door and a must-stop for dinner and drinks!  Centrally located on Vancouver Island, it’s a perfect spot to set up the rig and day trip out to Rathtrevor, Little Qualicum, Parksville, Coombs, Port Alberni valley and Nanaimo, or go for an overnighter in Victoria, Tofino, Mount Washington and the Comox Valley. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban and we have dry firewood for sale onsite. If you would like firewood send us a message before you arrive. Pets are welcome, but please be responsible for them. There is a large open grass field for you to let them run and burn off that energy. PLEASE NOTE that this is a campsite and the trailers in the photos are not for rent.
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Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

18. Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

90%
(126)
Shawnigan Lake, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Are you looking for a secluded camping experience with a lot of privacy? Bring your tent and stay at one of our wilderness campsites. Our basic Campsites have picnic tables, fire pits and an outhouse close by. And if you want, you can explore the farm and all our animals or one of the many hiking trails close by. Firewood is available for a charge.Our property is located in Shawnigan Lake, BC on Vancouver Island. The area is renowned for its rugged beauty and its 7-kilometre long lake that provides the opportunity for fishing, swimming and sunbathing in the summer.Nearby is the recently restored Kinsol Trestle named for the short-lived “King Solomon Mine”. Restored in 2011, it is an engineering feat, even by today’s standards and remains one of the loftiest wooden railway trestles in the world.We look forward to hosting you!
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The PRSRV

19. The PRSRV

92%
(471)
WA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Relax on the shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca at this hidden off grid gem! Our philosophy on camping is that it should be enjoyed while immersed in nature and as comfortable and private as possible. Enjoy the 10+ Acres PRSRV Surf has to offer where our nearest neighbor is miles away, just the way we like it:) That isn’t to say there’s not locals🦭 Daily seal sightings are not just common, they’re expected! Some call it the “Seal sanctuary of the Strait!” This stretch of coast line accessible only from the PRSRV is also home to otters, whales, crabs, eagles and more! Explore the miles of uninhabited beaches boasting some of the best fossil hunting on the Olympic Peninsula! In addition to the natural wonders of the PRSRV, we offer private, comfortably separated, sites that can accommodate tent campers and some for Vans up to 22ft. Each campsite features its own ~10x10 tent pad, fire pit, parking spot, and amazing views of the Strait! *Be sure to book the sauna package at checkout! **Please note as this property is on a hillside, the road is steep but easily doable. Given the lands natural terrain, guests should be comfortable with uneven surfaces, hills, stairs, etc. There is a rope to assist you on the last few steps to the beach** A different way to experience the Olympic Peninsula, don’t just camp, PRSRV🤙
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Duck Creek Farm

20. Duck Creek Farm

96%
(27)
Salt Spring Island, BC · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Duck Creek Farm stands as a family-operated organic farm nestled on Salt Spring Island. Spanning over an acre, our grounds boast a thriving market garden comprising three greenhouses and a 65-ft hoop house, along with 75 fruit trees, a yoga platform, a refreshing swimming pond, and a charming vintage farmhouse. This idyllic retreat offers a serene oasis where nature flourishes. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of eagles, owls, herons, otters, beavers, salmon, and more. The meandering Duck Creek traverses the property, creating a natural habitat for an array of creatures. Operating as a high-production garden, our dedicated staff is on-site Monday through Friday. Despite our productivity, we employ manual methods, ensuring a tranquil ambiance for our guests. In addition to our agricultural pursuits, Duck Creek Farm is an ideal venue for weddings and various events. For a comprehensive overview, please visit our website. Discover the perfect blend of nature, sustainability, and rustic charm at Duck Creek Farm! Parking for the tipi is 80 - 100' from the tipi. An outdoor sink is about 45' from the tipi, the outhouse is a 2-3 minute walk through the meadow.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Cowichan Valley camping guide

Where to go

Watch the Wildlife

Diverse Cowichan Valley ecosystems offer a wide range of wildlife watching opportunities. Take a whale watching tour off the coastline, or stay inland to watch Roosevelt elk roam the hills and valley near Youbou. A number of estuaries attract diverse bird species, while sea lions and seals are prolific along the shorelines. Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park is a special protected wilderness offering permitted backcountry camping.

Test Your Legs on the Trails

Hiking is a favourite activity among Cowichan Valley campers thanks to extensive trail systems and a varied terrain that means you might find yourself navigating a peak one day and a coastline the next. Mount Prevost and Mount Tzouhalem are two of the more challenging peaks, but the views at the top make each well worth the effort. For a mild hike (or bike), try the Cowichan River Trail at the valley floor. Cowichan Lake, the Cobble Hill Mountains, and Heather Mountain are just a few of the many notable trail systems waiting to be explored, some of which run through Cowichan River Provincial Park

Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park

This park is home to a significant percentage of the largest old-growth Sitka spruce in British Columbia. Gnarled cedar trees are also estimated at more than 1,000 years old in parts of the park, which also features great trail systems and camping sites with backcountry and wilderness designations. Daytrippers can enjoy the picnic sites between hikes, as well as scenic drives in and around the area.

Cowichan Bay and the Coast

Conveniently located adjacent to the coast, the Cowichan Valley is also loaded with opportunities where the land ends. Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay, Crofton, and Maple Bay are some of the prominent coastal communities where campers can launch on guided boat excursions or sit back and enjoy the sunset while eating at a local waterfront restaurant. These communities offer great wildlife watching, places to walk along the shore, and opportunities to charter boats for fishing and touring.

When to go

The beauty of the Cowichan Valley is the pleasant climate. Summer temperatures are rarely hot, with daily average highs peaking in the low 70s. Although summer is perfect for outdoor fun in the Cowichan Valley, there really isn't a bad month to visit the valley. British Columbia is notoriously cold throughout the winter months, but this valley offers refuge. Winter temperatures are cool, but they tend to stay above freezing, which makes it possible to continue recreating outside without gearing up for full winter weather. Expect occasional rain throughout the winter in addition to plenty of sunny days. Rain can muddy trail conditions, but otherwise, it should have little impact on your ability to enjoy the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Diverse Cowichan Valley ecosystems offer a wide range of wildlife watching opportunities. Take a whale watching tour off the coastline, or stay inland to watch Roosevelt elk roam the hills and valley near Youbou. A number of estuaries attract diverse bird species, while sea lions and seals are prolific along the shorelines. Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park is a special protected wilderness offering permitted backcountry camping. You can also explore different options for camping near Cowichan Valley on Hipcamp.

The beauty of the Cowichan Valley is the pleasant climate. Summer temperatures are rarely hot, with daily average highs peaking in the low 70s. Although summer is perfect for outdoor fun in the Cowichan Valley, there really isn't a bad month to visit the valley. British Columbia is notoriously cold throughout the winter months, but this valley offers refuge. Winter temperatures are cool, but they tend to stay above freezing, which makes it possible to continue recreating outside without gearing up for full winter weather. Expect occasional rain throughout the winter in addition to plenty of sunny days. Rain can muddy trail conditions, but otherwise, it should have little impact on your ability to enjoy the outdoors.

Hiking is a favourite activity among Cowichan Valley campers thanks to extensive trail systems and a varied terrain that means you might find yourself navigating a peak one day and a coastline the next. Mount Prevost and Mount Tzouhalem are two of the more challenging peaks, but the views at the top make each well worth the effort. For a mild hike (or bike), try the Cowichan River Trail at the valley floor. Cowichan Lake, the Cobble Hill Mountains, and Heather Mountain are just a few of the many notable trail systems waiting to be explored, some of which run through Cowichan River Provincial Park

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

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