Camping in Cowichan Valley with campfires
The Cowichan Valley is a scenic highlight for campers on BC’s Vancouver Island.
94% (2393 reviews)
- Cowichan Valley
94% (2393 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Cowichan Valley
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
12 top campgrounds in Cowichan Valley with campfires
100%
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Red Bell Farm
7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Duncan, BC
Access the Cowichan Valley Trail system right from our back yard! Easy access to either enjoy a leisurely walk, hike, bicycle, or horse ride along the trail to many destinations including Lake Cowichan, Shawinigan Lake, Duncan & more... or simply take in the beauty of the private pond area and picnic for the day with access to our Kitchenette with many extras! This is peaceful enjoyable tenting at its finest
We have 4 pond tent sites, 1 RV site is situated away from the pond, and 1 camper-van site within a few steps to the pond for visiting your tenting friends; there is a shared bathroom, municipal water, fire-pit, and kitchenette a relaxing sitting area.
Enjoy seeing what’s available at our small working hobby farm which includes eggs, chickens, and fresh berries, fruits, vegetables.
15min. to Lake Cowichan or travel 5min. to Duncan, Saturday is Farmers Market all year round and entertainment. Check out the "Duncan Showroom" or other venues for nightly live entertainment! Explore the many side streets for unique stores & food that is unique to Duncan. Did you know Duncan has 40 totem poles to find throughout the town?
Visit local wineries, breweries, distilleries, Raptors bird Sanctuary, Hand of Man Museum, or many other sights!
We’re also an easy drive away from Ladysmith, Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay (warmest ocean water on the island), or look for one of the largest Trestle bridges in North America... Just provide us with an idea of what you'd like to see and we can help with your adventure!
Only 1hr from Victoria or Nanaimo.
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CA$39
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(5)
Sensational de paradisio
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Duncan, BC
Learn more about this land:
Hello we have 1 new cabin available for stays which we just added at 125.00 per night 6 rv spaces and a large tenting area
Come and enjoy a quiet camping experience near Cowichan River. A perfect getaway from Nanaimo (45-minute drive) or Victoria (1-hour drive). We are pleased to offer cabin and tenting sites as well. The cabin is 140.00 per night. We offer 24 extremely private campsites that can accommodate 35 people and are easily accessible by car. While camping with us you’ll have access to a fire pit, firewood, cedar gazebo koi pond and the tranquil sound of our west coast frogs at night. and a picnic table to comfortably enjoy your meals. We also have a wood bbq and basic cooking utensils for your stay.
We’re a family-friendly camping experience and have plenty of activities on our property including hiking, swimming, mountain biking and more. Nearby you can explore the world-famous Cowichan River and Lake Cowichan. Within a short drive, you’ll find even more hiking and biking trails and tubing and swimming options.
Other amenities we offer include: a shower and toilet, access to electricity for charging phones and other devices.
Come and stay with us for an unforgettable camping getaway.
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CA$65
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Beautiful Rainforest Camping Along the Cowichan River
28 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · East Sahtlam, BC
In the heart of the Cowichan Valley and along the pristine Cowichan river this breathtaking acreage offers nothing short of an incredible experience. Explore our endless rainforest trails, with multiple beaches, tubing, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, campfires, volleyball, swimming in the famous Robson pool and kicking back and enjoying nothing but the sound of water and birds.You may catch a glimpse of many of the local resident animals including semi-wild horses.We have 10 campsites available for tent campers. Amenities include a toilet, potable water and a picnic table.Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, pets are welcomeCowichan River Provincial Park is a 15-minute drive. If it’s outdoor recreation you’re after, Cowichan River is the place to go. Whether you want to go swimming, canoeing, white-water kayaking, tubing, camping, fishing or hiking, or just want to take it easy in the sun, you’re bound to find something to do in this “recreation corridor” south of Duncan.
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CA$55
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95%
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Surrounded by Nature!
3 sites · RVs2 acres · Victoria, BC
We live on 2 private acres completely surrounded by Elk Lake Regional Park. There are 3 generations of family living here as well as 2 dogs, a one-eyed cat, and 19 chickens!Our campsite is in a beautiful location situated 20 minutes from the Swartz Bay Ferry terminal and downtown Victoria. PLEASE NOTE: we are an RV-only campsite! NO tent campers as there are no bathroom facilities on site.Access to great hiking just out your door at Elk Lake Regional Park (a 5 min walk to the beach for a swim, paddle, or fish at the nearby fishing dock) and Bear Hill Regional Park (20 min hike through fir and arbutus trees with beautiful views of the peninsula from the top). 10 minutes to Butchart gardens, with Butterfly Garden on the way. Ideal spot for campers looking to stay 1-2 nights. Great as a stopover to Tofino. Perfect for couples or groups of two, with a maximum of 4 campers.There are many wonderful farms and stands, wineries, coffee shops, and restaurants close by. Your site is a semi-private flat gravel area surrounded by fir trees. Easy access and plenty of turnaround room.
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CA$30
/ night
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Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat
47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Tsawwassen, BC
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 travelers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded 6 beaches, one of which you can wind surf. 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; the Salish Sea to the west.
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 (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 ambiance of tranquility. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of 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 a eagles nests, 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
/ night
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(18)
Forest Hideaway
1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Duncan, BC
Hi!
We’re your hosts, Seth, Jodie, and Megan Williams.
Recently we decided to share our property that we love and have enjoyed so much for two reasons: to give others the opportunity to enjoy it and to put money away for university. Our parents, Mark and Sarah, got behind the vision and are excited to be part of this project with us.
We would describe our property as: home…and a really fun place to grow up! Our parents thought that wasn’t descriptive enough for Hipcamp so they’ve helped us describe it more.
We live in a quiet neighbourhood in a forest that has been a source of peace, relaxation, and fun for us in our growing up years. We’ve noticed that people who visit here say they feel the same way.
With plenty of space for kids to explore and adults to relax, our 3 acre forest is perfect for down time with a book in the hammock or a nature walk before dinner.
Amenities and service:
A single, tidy campsite with picnic table surrounded by mature and gently manicured forest, as well as a hammock, and a new construction outhouse. (Go dad!)
We love hospitality, so though we won’t always be around when you’re here, if we are and you need something you can simply ask and we’ll do our best to provide what you need.
To help you feel welcome we provide a fresh, cool jug of drinking water and large container of fresh potable water as well as access to an outside tap to fill water containers if needed (upon request) , power to charge devices (upon request), and a campfire ring with firewood (sorry about the frequent fire bans. Huge bummer. We will post current fire ban status while you’re here.)
Surroundings and local attractions:
Our property is situated in a low traffic rural residential area within
¬ 3 km to Sandy Pool Regional Park (5 min) A family favourite!
¬ 10 km to the Cowichan Valley Museum (Duncan Totem Tour) (13 min)
¬ 14 km to the Pacific Northwest Raptor Center (15 min)
¬ 19 km to the Hand of Man Museum (20 min)
¬ 20 km to Lake Cowichan (16 min) for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc
Note: Lake Cowichan is also home to ‘The Tube Shack’ where you can rent tubes to float down the Cowichan River and catch the Tube Shack Bus back to your car. We do it every summer!
Fun fact! It’s a 10-minute bike ride from our house to the Cowichan Valley Bike Trail.
*(All destinations calculated from our dining table by Google maps)
There are multiple well known hikes within 20 minutes (we suggest googling Stoney Hill Trail, Mt Tzouhalem, and Mt. Prevost.)
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CA$45
/ night
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Bunkie Glamping in Cowichan Valley
2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Duncan, BC
Welcome to Glamping in Glenora. Discover one of the sweetest secrets in the Cowichan Valley: the perfect place to unplug and unwind. Re-wild yourself in nature by exploring the region's rivers, lakes, trails, vineyards, cideries and farms. The Glamping Bunkies are nestled within our 6 acre property amongst, Dogwoods, Maples, and wildflowers. Marvel at the stars while frogs serenade you, enjoy a drink next to the fire pit, listen to the river flowing below, or simply cozy up inside your bunkie.
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CA$95
/ night
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Lot4.Caycuse
1 site · Lodging5 acres · Youbou, BC
***This site is currently being upgraded to a larger tent and adding more amenities for our guests. We will reopen on April 15th this year***
Welcome to our magical property nestled in a semi-remote temperate rainforest on Vancouver island. The 5 acre property is filled with wonderful trails to explore, a nearby lake, and a custom Sauna & Ice Plunge to take the stress of the day away.
You'll wake up to the calmness of the forest, the sounds of the birds, and the sun shining through the moss covered trees.
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CA$165
/ night
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Sassy Gardens
5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Duncan, BC
We welcome nature lovers to our raw land outside the town of Duncan on southern Vancouver Island near Lake Cowichan.
Come and meet our famous Sasquatch "Sassy" the Guardian and get your picture taken while you stay.
This is no-frills camping with no power or water hook-ups, but we do have a brand new outhouse and a potable water source to fill your containers.
Bring your tents, your coolers, your pets, and your vehicles right up to the site, and wake up surrounded by trees. The property sits near the Cowichan River, and a variety of activities are available including fishing, biking, off-roading, hiking, swimming, and paddling.
With drive-up parking available at the property, you can bring everything you need to be comfortable in the woods without having to hike in and out. Enjoy the proximity to the shops and restaurants of Duncan while still getting an off-grid camping experience. Firewood is available for purchase.
Duncan is located midway between Nanaimo to the north and Victoria to the south, and there are many nearby scenic spots along the Cowichan River for outdoor activities. In town, Rotary Park is a great choice for kids and dogs; heading west out of town, you can find hiking, swimming, kayaking, picnic areas, and more at Sandy Pool Regional Park, Glenora Riverside Park, and Cowichan River Provincial Park, about 15 kilometres west of Duncan. For a more cultural look at the area, take a tour of Duncan’s renowned collection of totem poles.
Firewood is available for purchase when fires are allowed.
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CA$50
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Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Shawnigan Lake, BC
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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CA$45
/ night
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(3)
"Island on an Island" Billy Goat#4
1 site · Lodging4 acres · Nanaimo, BC
Tenting/Done Amazing one of a kind private Island in the heart of Youbou, BC, minutes away from amenities Including a pub, grocery and liquor store. The island is completely private, yet it is only 250 meters from the mainland. There are a couple of kayaks you can use and the waters are teaming with fish! It truly is a piece of paradise! And needs to be shared…. We are building two more domes and a 24 foot yurt this spring /summer… But for now we have one 16 foot dome with a wood stove. As well as two platforms set up for tenting. It is probably one of the most beautiful places you will see on Lake Cowichan. There is a double bed and three fold out foam bed cushions in the dome. We ask that you bring your own bedding and towels. We provide a bbq and Blackstone cooking grill and an outhouse (we are working making improvements and should be ready by June 1st). I guarantee you will make life long memories, it is a very special place.
We are not set up to provide transportation to and from the Island yet, but we are working on a solution for this summer. We do have a large dock for your boat, as well as there are plenty of places to simply put your boat on shore.
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CA$200
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Pacific Ranch
5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Victoria, BC
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 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 26 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 are welcome!
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CA$50
/ night
Available this weekend
Star Hosts in Cowichan Valley
Camping in Cowichan Valley with campfires guide
Overview
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.
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.
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