The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Cowichan Valley

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% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Several covered outdoor kitchens with cooking utensils provided

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% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. sol duc rainforest retreat

92%

(1061)

15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Port Angeles, WA

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.

2. Glamping at the Gateway

94%

(296)

13 sites · Lodging · Port Angeles, WA

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.

3. The PRSRV

92%

(449)

17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · WA

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🤙

4. Maple Haven Treehouse

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Sooke, BC

Nestled on 5 private acres, the Treehouse offers a unique escape complete with its own zipline, basket swing, and relaxing hammocks. Ideally located in the heart of the region’s best adventures and amenities, it’s the perfect base for exploring the great outdoors. Step out your door and directly into the stunning Sea to Sky Park—9,000 acres of designated hiking and mountain biking trails that lead to serene lakes and breathtaking viewpoints. Cool off with a swim at the world-renowned Sooke Potholes, just a 10-minute drive away, or enjoy a peaceful walk or ride along the scenic Galloping Goose Trail, a multi-use path that winds from Victoria to Sooke. Looking for more to do? Try horseback riding lessons at Cherry Lane Equine, or treat yourself to a craft beer at Oceanside Brewery—only a 10-minute walk from the Treehouse. Stock up on fresh produce and groceries at nearby Daniels Market, or visit Mrs. Lewers Organic Farm for eggs, homegrown veggies, and homemade jams. And when hunger strikes, indulge in delicious oceanfront dining at the Stickleback Cider & Taphouse—just minutes away. All of these incredible experiences are within a 3-minute drive, 5-minute bike ride, or 20-minute walk from your private treetop hideaway.

5. Elwha RV Park

96%

(135)

25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Port Angeles, WA

Our RV Park & Campground has sites for RVs, van life, and tenting alike whether full hookups, partial hook ups or just dry camping. We have our dry camping and tenting sites listed through Hipcamp. Please inquire with us directly at www. elwhadamrvpark .com for sites with hook-ups and for RVs larger than 20' long. We will need the specs of your tent or RV, your preferences as far as power, or privacy, as well as the number of people, so we can check availability easier. Our Elwha campground property has a peaceful healing vibe, with majesty all around: surrounded by forest with natural springs and the Elwha River just a walk down the trail. We have mountain peaks stand in the distance; with lakes, waterfalls, and ocean experience 5 minutes away, as well as biking and hiking trails starting right from our property. We include amenities of Wi-Fi, garden, laundry and showers, games, and more. We usually fit people to the best site available according to their preferences. You'll find this park conveniently located just off of Scenic Highway 112, by the beautiful Elwha River Canyon and the former Lower Elwha Dam site. ***PLEASE NOTE: Our site number assignments are subject to change at any time. We do not have designated RV site assignments in advance of your reservation date. WE CANNOT PROMISE SPECIFIC SITE NUMBERS, although we can guarantee that you will be accommodated in the site class you have booked and we will do our best to accommodate any request for a specific area.***

6. Secluded Forest Oasis, Maple Bay BC

100%

(3)

1 site · Lodging · Duncan, BC

We affectionately call this place “The Tardis” because its transformation from an RV, gutted into a modern cozy hi tech space with a cozy county feel, an outdoor kitchen / living / dining / hot tub areas in a forest setting. It’s got super high speed Internet, 2 TVs, a faux fireplace. Inside a live edge old growth cedar counter with Italian tile, modern connected features, fireplace, heat pump, flooring and great feel. Private inside a 5 acre estate with grounds and a private forest. Everyone loves this space. Tech wise there is super fast ethernet straight to the unit at around 600 download for zoom calls. There is also a super fast wifi for exclusive mobility, 2 flat screen TVs, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus. The space is really idea for 2 people however there are 2 bunk beds in a smaller space that could accomidate smaller children or other smaller stature adults that don't mind a small bunk bed sleeping area. A lot of remote worker like this place. It's faster and quieter than home surrounded by nature. We've focused on the outdoor area covered and private decks outside giving it the feel of an outdoor living, complete with a new BBQ, outdoor living room / seating area / kitchen. There is a private soft tub for comfy soaks.

7. Jordan River's Little Airstream

100%

(3)

1 site · Lodging · Jordan River, BC

Welcome to JR’s Little Airstream! This space is small but mighty, and designed to provide guests with a cozy and memorable stay on Southern Vancouver Island, close to surf, beaches, and hiking trails! A private rustic outdoor shower, covered outdoor patio area, and bbq expand on the classic airstream interior with warm and comfortable touches. Your Airstream dream awaits!

8. Mountainaire Campground and RV Park

83%

(27)

86 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nanaimo, BC

Nestled on a beautiful 40-acre park, our Campground and RV Park provides a relaxed, natural atmosphere perfect for family fun. Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver Island, just beside the Nanaimo airport (a 5-minute drive) and approximately 20 minutes by car from both ferry terminals connecting to Vancouver. Featuring 30 and 50 amp fully or partial-serviced sites, ample green spaces, and cozy on-site RV Glamping units and cabins tucked away in the woods, Mountainaire is your ideal starting point or departure spot for a Vancouver Island vacation. Enjoy our newly renovated bathrooms, warm showers, and on-site laundromat, along with the added convenience of an onsite store. Take a short hike through the rainforest to the breathtaking Crystal Bowl for activities like river swimming, cliff diving, kayaking, or even crayfish catching with your little ones. Young campers can bike down ramps, play in the playground, and witness the fascinating transformation of tadpoles into western toads (a species at risk). Don’t miss our renowned special events and unwind with a Friday night movie accompanied by free popcorn. PARK AMENITIES: Lots of mature trees, green space and ramps. Bring your bikes. Outdoor playground with loads of fun Convenience store and Arcade Washroom and showers Laundry room Rainforest trail to the Crystal Bowl of Nanaimo River Pond Horseshoe pits Beach volleyball court Outdoor stage Secure property, gate locked at 10:00pm

9. The Rad Shack

92%

(12)

1 site · Lodging · Jordan River, BC

Aloha, Brah's, Wahine's and all those in betweeny's! The Rad Shack is a most excellent west coast cabana. Surrounded by incredible forests, spend your day surfing, exploring the Juan de Fuca trails, hiking along the local beaches or just chillin in The Rad Shack. We are within walking distance of Jordan River and China Beach. The immediate environment is a beautiful, lush, west coast forest with a creek, a froggy habited lagoon, and all kinds of birds, raccoons, salamanders, and bears, oh my!

10. Camas Creek Retreat

100%

(42)

1 site · Lodging · Victoria, BC

Welcome to Camas Creek Retreat, a secluded nature getaway 40 minutes outside Victoria BC. We are steps from Sitting Lady Falls, birdwatching at Witty's Lagoon, and some of the best hiking in BC. Bring your bike and coast down the hill to the Galloping Goose bike trail, go swimming at Matheson Lake, plunge into the Sooke Potholes, or visit one of the many beautiful farm stands in Metchosin and of course....llamas! Our property sits on two acres of Douglas fir forest and Garry Oak meadow. Camas Creek runs under a little bridge as you enter our lane. Watch for woodpeckers, ravens and birds of all types here. Nature and tranquility is all around.

11. Woodland at The Shamba

67%

(12)

1 site · Lodging · Saltspring Island, BC

In a cedar grove, nestled among the ferns, a lotus belle tent awaits you. A unique bed and breakfast in an off-grid tent. Inside the belle tent there is a comfortable double bed with clean sheets, plump pillows, and a warm Pendelton blanket. A 'west coast homestead basket' with granola, fruit ,and farm eggs is provided for a nutritious breakfast. A Berkey water filter provides delicious water from our mountain well. Inside the tent, a comfortable chair looks out over the mossy forest toward the creek. There is room to stretch, and a couple of yoga mats to use. A stretch is especially nice after exploring the nearby trails through Mount Maxwell forest. The trails take through a varied and fascinating forest. Along the way are mossy knolls with vistas of the valley, ocean, and Vancouver Island. One trail leads all the way to Burgyone Bay. The belle is an off-grid seasonal tent with electric candles for lighting and a composting toilet. At night there are solar string lights--should you want them--which illuminate the path to the tent. On clear nights, turn the lights off to star-gaze through the branches.

12. Coastline Wanderer Getaway

100%

(2)

1 site · Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

Enjoy the sounds of nature on forested acreage in Roberts Creek. Unwind with the abundant wildlife and the sounds of creeks in the forest. Stay in our thoughtfully furnished renovated private camper on a secluded grassy meadow with ponds and a towering cedar forest on six acres. This is a rural property in a small horse ranch community. In the spring to fall, you will likely come across owls in the trees, frogs, crayfish, ducks and a turtle in the creeks and ponds, deer, coyotes, cougars, and bears, who will walk through the land on a daily basis. Please be aware, keep your distance from all wildlife and use your bear smarts. This really is a wonderful coastal experience with a balance of comfort and rural. 15 mins from the Ferry, close to Gibsons boasting cideries, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, and shops. This is a rural property with extensive wildlife. Please expect to come across bears, deer, and coyotes with the occasional cougar sighting. Please keep your space clean and make your presence known.

13. Old Growth Forest Moon Dome

100%

(5)

1 site · Lodging · Sooke, BC

Get away from it all when you stay under the old growth cedars and maples of the Sooke River. This nature dome has one bunk bed with an additional pullout. A small solar system will run lights and a fan. There is a composting toilet, a wood burning fireplace in the winter, and a propane fireplace in the summer. The dome is totally private on a 10 acre farm with nature trials. This quiet and tranquil setting is perfect for family camping, mediation and writing retreats, or a quiet getaway.

14. Tobegreen In A Creek Side Farm

1 site · Lodging · Parksville, BC

You come and stay in our 5th Wheel RV . Outside the RV is a small deck with a table and 2 chairs that you can be used. Most of the area is protected and therefore you cannot camp inside the protected area. A minute walk will allow you access a creek. The creek subdivides our property into 2 halves. Beyond the Cree, Some areas are very steep and challenging to climb.

15. Sleep By The Creek

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

Escape to a serene tent by a stunning creek on a 5-acre property of old growth forest. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the water and wake up surrounded by nature. Enjoy a cozy fire pit, and an outdoor picnic area. Explore hiking trails or simply relax in this hidden gem. Just a short walk to the beautiful beaches, our retreat offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Reconnect with the tranquility of the wilderness. Full washroom is available inside the house just a short walk away.

Camper favorites in and near Cowichan Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camas Creek Retreat

100%

(42)

1 site · Lodging · Victoria, BC

Welcome to Camas Creek Retreat, a secluded nature getaway 40 minutes outside Victoria BC. We are steps from Sitting Lady Falls, birdwatching at Witty's Lagoon, and some of the best hiking in BC. Bring your bike and coast down the hill to the Galloping Goose bike trail, go swimming at Matheson Lake, plunge into the Sooke Potholes, or visit one of the many beautiful farm stands in Metchosin and of course....llamas! Our property sits on two acres of Douglas fir forest and Garry Oak meadow. Camas Creek runs under a little bridge as you enter our lane. Watch for woodpeckers, ravens and birds of all types here. Nature and tranquility is all around.

Woodland at The Shamba

67%

(12)

1 site · Lodging · Saltspring Island, BC

In a cedar grove, nestled among the ferns, a lotus belle tent awaits you. A unique bed and breakfast in an off-grid tent. Inside the belle tent there is a comfortable double bed with clean sheets, plump pillows, and a warm Pendelton blanket. A 'west coast homestead basket' with granola, fruit ,and farm eggs is provided for a nutritious breakfast. A Berkey water filter provides delicious water from our mountain well. Inside the tent, a comfortable chair looks out over the mossy forest toward the creek. There is room to stretch, and a couple of yoga mats to use. A stretch is especially nice after exploring the nearby trails through Mount Maxwell forest. The trails take through a varied and fascinating forest. Along the way are mossy knolls with vistas of the valley, ocean, and Vancouver Island. One trail leads all the way to Burgyone Bay. The belle is an off-grid seasonal tent with electric candles for lighting and a composting toilet. At night there are solar string lights--should you want them--which illuminate the path to the tent. On clear nights, turn the lights off to star-gaze through the branches.

Coastline Wanderer Getaway

100%

(2)

1 site · Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

Enjoy the sounds of nature on forested acreage in Roberts Creek. Unwind with the abundant wildlife and the sounds of creeks in the forest. Stay in our thoughtfully furnished renovated private camper on a secluded grassy meadow with ponds and a towering cedar forest on six acres. This is a rural property in a small horse ranch community. In the spring to fall, you will likely come across owls in the trees, frogs, crayfish, ducks and a turtle in the creeks and ponds, deer, coyotes, cougars, and bears, who will walk through the land on a daily basis. Please be aware, keep your distance from all wildlife and use your bear smarts. This really is a wonderful coastal experience with a balance of comfort and rural. 15 mins from the Ferry, close to Gibsons boasting cideries, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, and shops. This is a rural property with extensive wildlife. Please expect to come across bears, deer, and coyotes with the occasional cougar sighting. Please keep your space clean and make your presence known.

Old Growth Forest Moon Dome

100%

(5)

1 site · Lodging · Sooke, BC

Get away from it all when you stay under the old growth cedars and maples of the Sooke River. This nature dome has one bunk bed with an additional pullout. A small solar system will run lights and a fan. There is a composting toilet, a wood burning fireplace in the winter, and a propane fireplace in the summer. The dome is totally private on a 10 acre farm with nature trials. This quiet and tranquil setting is perfect for family camping, mediation and writing retreats, or a quiet getaway.

Tobegreen In A Creek Side Farm

1 site · Lodging · Parksville, BC

You come and stay in our 5th Wheel RV . Outside the RV is a small deck with a table and 2 chairs that you can be used. Most of the area is protected and therefore you cannot camp inside the protected area. A minute walk will allow you access a creek. The creek subdivides our property into 2 halves. Beyond the Cree, Some areas are very steep and challenging to climb.

Sleep By The Creek

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

Escape to a serene tent by a stunning creek on a 5-acre property of old growth forest. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the water and wake up surrounded by nature. Enjoy a cozy fire pit, and an outdoor picnic area. Explore hiking trails or simply relax in this hidden gem. Just a short walk to the beautiful beaches, our retreat offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Reconnect with the tranquility of the wilderness. Full washroom is available inside the house just a short walk away.

Stories from the community

W

Whitney

October 2025

With kids

1 night at sol duc rainforest retreat

It was a really beautiful campsite with a lot of convenient amenities available. The only thing I really have to complain about is that the heater in the tent wasn’t enough to keep us warm at night.

Z

Zach

October 2025

3 nights at Secluded Forest Oasis, Maple Bay BC

Great time, great property and a great host. I’d highly recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful secluded place to stay. Very convenient location that is close to lots of mountain biking and good restaurants, breweries and wineries. Steven, the host is a very nice guy and super helpful and easy to work with.

L

Lorna

October 2025

2 nights at Maple Haven Treehouse

We had a beautiful stay at Maple Haven tree house! The space was quiet, well-appointed, and beautiful- everything you need for a quiet cozy getaway to the forest. We loved how comfy the mattress was!

T

Terri

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The PRSRV

We had a great experience. I would easy both return, and recommend to anyone.

Coral

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camas Creek Retreat

We enjoyed our weekend stay in the cabin! Upon arrival, Heloise and Ruth were welcoming and showed my husband and I around the property, and the details of the cabin space. It’s about a 40 minute drive from downtown Victoria and easy to find markets and shops from the cabin. The cabin has a fence around the front and is backed up against a small hillside. The bedroom is complete enclosed in the cabin space, but the rest (kitchen, dining, and shower) are more of an open concept space. Outside has a cozy ceiling heater where we played cards on the table in the evenings after a long day of adventuring and touristing around. There is plenty of space for cooking and lots of pots and pans. Plus a mini fridge for cold drinks of food items. The shower is outside against the hillside, and the toilet is compostable (don’t worry instructions are posted inside). Inside, the cabin has a full size bed which slept my husband and I comfortably. A space heater in case it’s cold, and extra blankets. The cabin is located on-site where the owners live, just a ways from their house, and near another neighbor that shares the driveway. WiFi is available if needed. My advice for showering is 1.) shower in the evening/ at night since it’s sort of open space and during the day some children were outside playing and 2.) undress inside of the shower space before turning the water on for maximum privacy. But it is a nice hot shower! We had a great stay, had everything we needed, and felt right at home.

S

Samantha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to sol duc rainforest retreat

Very thoughtful tent set up. Beautiful area. We loved our stay

Jon

September 2025

2 nights at sol duc rainforest retreat

The campgrounds were amazing!! the setting was beautiful and the directions were on point!! Everything listed was there: kitchen, kitchenware, running hot water for bathrooms, functional toilets in restrooms. Though the tent had a heater, it didn't do a great job, but thank goodness for blankets! (bring your own sleeping bag if you'd like extra comfort and warmth). was a perfect location for my hikes within Olympic; 30-45 mins to Hurricane Ridge and 15 mins from Storm King. I'd surely consider staying here once I plan my Pacific NW road trip!

A

Apoorva

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camas Creek Retreat

Had the best time at camas creek cabin. Heloise and her family are wonderful and got us fresh produce of fruits from their garden to welcome us and also when we were leaving. The property is so peaceful and exactly what we wanted - away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The open kitchen and shower were super nice and we had a great time there . Ruth was incredibly sweet and helped us understand the life there. Their pup jeena is the cutest

G

Grace

September 2025

3 nights at sol duc rainforest retreat

What an amazing place! You can tell that the owners of this location put a lot of love and mindfulness into this place, from the amenities of well-furnished kitchens(!) and hot(!) showers, to the hand-carved and selected decorations hidden everywhere and multitudes of places to sit by yourself or hang out with others. Even with all of the pleasures of civilization, it still feels like you're truly camping inside the rainforest, which was exactly what I was hoping for. (And I spent more than a little time on the rope hammock platform, just soaking it all in!) Aside from the nearby roadway during the day, which isn't terrible and is less noticeable in the further campsites, it's incredibly peaceful and quiet, and that same road takes you to so many nearby sites for exploring and hiking that I can't find it in me to mind the mild noise! I'm so glad I stumbled across this place, and I greatly look forward to returning! I was in one of the "glamping" spots, #5, and very much appreciated the setup and available power, as well as the clever use of padding between tent and platform. It was perfectly cozy on the mild September nights - I brought an electric blanket just in case but didn't need it - and there was more than enough room and height to not struggle with space at all.

Anna

September 2025

2 nights at sol duc rainforest retreat

Really cute and magical green space! Appreciated the amenities of hot showers and cooking spaces along with all the cute spots to sit around the retreat site. Would recommend and would go back!

S

Sierra

September 2025

2 nights at Glamping at the Gateway

My husband and I loved staying here. Perfect spot to be able to explore the Olympic National Park. Teresa was super friendly and gave us suggestions on places to visit. The RV was super comfortable and outdoor shower was nice. Would definitely stay here again in the future.

J

Jude

September 2025

2 nights at The Rad Shack

We had the most wonderful time at the Rad Shack. Such a cute place which has clearly been made with a lot of love. Madeline was a very responsive host and we enjoyed the guide book inside of the nearby area. It is very remote and private, with its own trail down to a completely quiet beach which is fantastic for a sunset. Outdoor shower is very fun!

B

Benjamin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The PRSRV

friendly host, beautiful property and nice amenities. thank you.

M

Mary Margaret

September 2025

Weekend Trip to sol duc rainforest retreat

I had a nice time at Sol Duc Retreat and got very lucky with temperate weather and even some sunshine. My stay was in the glamping tent site 5 and it included a full sized air mattress and a single person cot with pillows and blankets. The site was gorgeous and really felt like you are camping in the rainforest, but its pretty close to the highway so car traffic noise could always be heard. Finding the campsite was a breeze with the directions from the host. Sol Duc Retreat is a skip away from Lake Crescent and relatively close to so many hikes in Olympic so location was awesome. The amenities were just fine - the kitchen equipment seems to just be cleaned and maintained by the guests so it was a tad grimy. I would recommend bringing some of your own utensils and plates to eat with, but I felt fine using pots and pans because I could burn off any germs through cooking. The bathrooms also followed suit with the kitchens and felt unclean, but I was fine with that for a few nights! They were always properly stocked with toilet paper and hot water. Definitely bring shower shoes! The kitchen and bathrooms were not as clean as I had hoped but they were there and still super helpful to use. Overall, I would recommend staying at Sol Duc Retreat because it was a solid accommodation that allowed me to soak up every bit of Olympic!

T

Tbrawlen

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Jordan River's Little Airstream

My girlfriend and I loved this place! It was quiet and clean, the vibe was so lovely we had a hard time leaving. Lots of hikes close by and the best little coffee shop at the bottom of the hill. Robyn was super helpful and kind! 10/10, 5 stars! Will be back!

r

russ

September 2025

1 night at The PRSRV

Great spot. The buckle and dime for everything is kind of annoying. They charge you for each chair and anything else even though it’s already there and you don’t have to request it

N

NathanielBoon

September 2025

1 night at sol duc rainforest retreat

Honestly really cool, the vibes where good, it was like a little gnome wonderland tucked into the woods

A

Alethia

September 2025

1 night at Camas Creek Retreat

Heloise is a wonderful host! We absolutely fell in love with this hipcamp! It was very charming and unique, with everything we needed and more! Our favorite stay by far! Heloise was a very gracious host, and we loved the fruit bowl that she left from their own garden! 💕 Would stay here again and again!

K

Kristin

September 2025

1 night at Camas Creek Retreat

Great cabin! Very clean and well kept. The host was very friendly and welcoming. I really liked the outdoor shower and kitchen. Great location too. I would definitely come back!

Angela

August 2025

Weekend Trip to sol duc rainforest retreat

This is my second time camping here, although it's my first time in this specific spot. I love that the tent is all set up for you, including a mattress and blankets. The tent was cozy, had a small space heater, and was close to the bathrooms. It wasn't too loud, though you can hear Highway 101 occasionally. I don't think it's a big deal or a reason not to stay here. The bathrooms and showers were clean and functioned well. The kitchen had everything we needed to heat our meals. This location is perfect for exploring the North Coast (1-2 hours), Sol Duc Hot Springs (30 minutes), and Lake Crescent (15-30 minutes). This spot has now become part of our annual Olympic National Park trip.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Cowichan Valley 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.