The best family-friendly camping in Hornby Island

·

Hornby Island, the northernmost of the Gulf Islands between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island, is a quirky piece of Earth. You’ll find funky touches, like water tank art installations and the community hall reminiscent of a giant mushroom—anywhere you look, the population of counterculture creative types is evident. The island comes alive in July and August with festivals and a market, while winters and shoulder season weekdays (from mid-May to June, plus September) are much quieter. Getting to Hornby is part of the adventure, with a ferry running from Buckley Bay (30 minutes south of Comox) on Vancouver Island to Denman Island, then a quick drive across Denman, where you can catch the Hornby Island ferry.

98% (803) 25 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hornby Island

Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

1. Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

92%
(300)
18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Halfmoon Bay, BC
Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat is an Award-winning Glamping Nature Retreat. We are centrally located on the Sunshine Coast (only a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay) on a spectacular 10-acre ocean-view property. We run a small, organic farm and host guests in intriguing tiny homes and glamping tents. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view, furnished RV's with large decks, to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabins, RV's, and assortment of glamping tents. Our property is a nature oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 20 minutes north of Sechelt, we're close to beaches and lakes. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond (much smaller in the summertime), our small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails, visit our chickens, or sit near our seasonal waterfall. There are many spots on the property to sit and chill. We've also been Airbnb hosts for over 13 years. If you come during campfire season, please bring your firewood. You're also welcome to scavenge for dead dry wood on the property, but we no longer have firewood for purchase. Typically, gas stations and some grocery stores have some for sale.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$34
 / night
Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

2. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%
(90)
2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Black Creek, BC
We are located on a beautiful farm with lots of animals to see! Our property is in Black Creek, BC. We have one private site available for tent and RV/trailer campers. The site is level and grassy and it can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. We provide a picnic table, wifi, and potable water. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We also have a new tiny home situated beside our field where the llamas, goats and sheep hang out, with a covered deck and firepit area. Black Creek is a small town located on the eastern shore of North Central Vancouver Island, home to stunning beaches and outdoor recreation. At nearby Saratoga Beach, the tide goes out for over a quarter of a mile, creating a hard-packed oceanfront playground perfect for children to safely explore. Miracle Provincial Park is close by with a picnic area overlooking the water and a series of lovely trails winding through lush forest. You can visit the Oyster River Hatchery, check out the seals and sea lions in Seal Bay Regional Park, do some saltwater fishing for salmon, or even rent a go-cart and race around the Saratoga Speedway, or just watch others do it.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$40
 / night
Forest Sanctuary

3. Forest Sanctuary

99%
(111)
6 sites · Tents · Roberts Creek, BC
Hi. My name is Christian and welcome to my beautiful Forest Sanctuary on the slopes of Mt. Elphinstone in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast. My property is a magical private nature retreat created in the spirit of love and reverence for the land on which it is built. It is a sanctuary to nurture the body, mind and spirit. A place to come back to One's Self. I have taken a piece of forest and transformed it into a Premium camping experience with pastures, terraces, pathways, a pond and island, level campsites with grass and sand and a communal outdoor pavilion lounge with fully stocked kitchen at your disposal. A large communal campfire is available. I have solar showers too. This is a magnificent place to bring the kids, a wonderful place to hang with friends and family, a peaceful place for lovers and a great place to come on your own to remember how awesome and talented you really are. I can accommodate larger groups, workshops, parties and special events. Ask me about renting the entire site for your private event and family and friend gatherings. Please note, these are walk-in campsites. Park and make a short walk to your beautiful campsite. One large grass pasture is available upon request for car, campervan and RV camping. My fully stocked pavilion, kitchen and lounge has all the cookware, dishware and utensils needed to prepare your meal. There is also a BBQ and Coleman stove with propane provided. Drinking water is provided. Firewood is sold onsite for when campfires are permitted. Propane fire pit rentals available. For bathing I have cold showers and seasonal warm solar showers on hot days. Plus an aquifer-fed pond for clean, cold water dips. If you want something a little fancier I have a great little off-grid camping cabin and a Bell tent. Ask me about them. A beautiful mobile sauna care of Pranasauna is available for rent. Roberts Creek is a peaceful, eclectic, rural community seated between Gibsons and Sechelt, and possesses a stunning blend of beaches, forest, and some of the friendliest people you will come across. A relaxing atmosphere awaits you here, where both your artistic and outdoor adventure self is sure to feel at home. Please note I am two kms up a well maintained private gravel road. 2 wheel drive vehicles are ok.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$100
 / night
Dashwood Meadows

4. Dashwood Meadows

98%
(238)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC
Welcome to Dashwood Meadows! We are located in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. This is a hobby farm with sheep, mini goats, donkey, dog and cat. We grow berries, plums, cherries, nuts and wildflowers. Child-friendly and family friendly environment. You can walk the labyrinth of forest trails nearby. There is a beach 9 km from the farm. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, provincial parks, caves, golf courses, children's playgrounds and country markets, all within less than an hour's drive. In Qualicum Beach, you will find amazing sandy beaches, picture-perfect views, world-class biking and hiking trails, salt-tinged ocean air, and the small town charm of our communities. Seeing goats on a roof, exploring underground caves, strolling endless beaches at low tide, and walking among ancient old-growth forests are just some of the experiences you’ll be able to tell your friends about back home.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$54
 / night
Murphy’s Farm

5. Murphy’s Farm

98%
(58)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Parksville, BC
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 Our lovely grass area looks out over our paddock that contains 3 horses and a mini donkey. We also have 3 dogs and 3 cats Our dogs are friendly We have a 10 month old bernedoodle, a 4 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 propane) and an quiet eating area Pets allowed on leash No Visitors Please
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$36
 / night
Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

6. Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

95%
(219)
11 sites · Tents, RVs · Campbell River, BC
A beautiful campsite located in Campbell River, BC. Pastoral open field for RVs & tents. Easy access from the road and private secluded sites for single vehicles & tenters. We can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. No services/utilities this year. Only a 2-minute walk to the beach and several trails. Shelter Point Distillery is just next door. Other activities near include wandering along oceanside trails, fishing for salmon, swimming, or simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying nature. The region is a mecca for outdoor and marine enthusiasts as it boasts 5 Provincial Parks, several marine parks, golf courses, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing hotspots galore. Explore the wilds of Strathcona Provincial Park, paddle the calm waters of the estuary, get out on the water for a thrilling whale-watching excursion and so much more. Pets welcome, campfires permitted according to BC Forest fire ban limits. 10 sites available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$45
 / night
Alpaca Haven

7. Alpaca Haven

99%
(76)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Parksville, BC
Recently moved to property to begin our new journey, this property holds an immense sense of peace and wellness, grazed by lamas and alpacas for past 2 decades &10acre farm property completely fenced in and void from predators, general public, and unwanted guests. Pockets of old cedars, ponds, forest trail and privacy. Feel at one with surrounding nature. Gated and fenced in access points for use coordinating with grazing animals. Learn more about this land: Our property is located in between Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Vancouver Island! We have a friendly, small alpaca herd and 6 blissfully friendly goats. You have the option to interact with them if you'd like! We are minutes from beautiful ocean beaches, river access, lush green trails, or the amenities of the Parksville/Qualicum Oceanside region.  Parksville is one of Canada's most popular summer destinations for families. Everyone loves Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, with its beaches, tidal flats and pools, and wildlife. Quiet nights with moonlight, stars, crickets singing and owls hooting. Qualicum Airport and restaurants nearby. You'll have access to potable water from the well if needed. Pets are welcome at the discretion of property owners. Campers can expect a peaceful retreat closely located to some of Vancouver Islands' most sought off adventures, experiences, and memories.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
CA$60
 / night
Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

8. Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%
(9)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$102
 / night

Hornby Island, the northernmost of the Gulf Islands between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island, is a quirky piece of Earth. You’ll find funky touches, like water tank art installations and the community hall reminiscent of a giant mushroom—anywhere you look, the population of counterculture creative types is evident. The island comes alive in July and August with festivals and a market, while winters and shoulder season weekdays (from mid-May to June, plus September) are much quieter. Getting to Hornby is part of the adventure, with a ferry running from Buckley Bay (30 minutes south of Comox) on Vancouver Island to Denman Island, then a quick drive across Denman, where you can catch the Hornby Island ferry.

98% (803) 25 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hornby Island

Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

1. Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

92%
(300)
18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Halfmoon Bay, BC
Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat is an Award-winning Glamping Nature Retreat. We are centrally located on the Sunshine Coast (only a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay) on a spectacular 10-acre ocean-view property. We run a small, organic farm and host guests in intriguing tiny homes and glamping tents. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view, furnished RV's with large decks, to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabins, RV's, and assortment of glamping tents. Our property is a nature oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 20 minutes north of Sechelt, we're close to beaches and lakes. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond (much smaller in the summertime), our small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails, visit our chickens, or sit near our seasonal waterfall. There are many spots on the property to sit and chill. We've also been Airbnb hosts for over 13 years. If you come during campfire season, please bring your firewood. You're also welcome to scavenge for dead dry wood on the property, but we no longer have firewood for purchase. Typically, gas stations and some grocery stores have some for sale.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$34
 / night
Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

2. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%
(90)
2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Black Creek, BC
We are located on a beautiful farm with lots of animals to see! Our property is in Black Creek, BC. We have one private site available for tent and RV/trailer campers. The site is level and grassy and it can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. We provide a picnic table, wifi, and potable water. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We also have a new tiny home situated beside our field where the llamas, goats and sheep hang out, with a covered deck and firepit area. Black Creek is a small town located on the eastern shore of North Central Vancouver Island, home to stunning beaches and outdoor recreation. At nearby Saratoga Beach, the tide goes out for over a quarter of a mile, creating a hard-packed oceanfront playground perfect for children to safely explore. Miracle Provincial Park is close by with a picnic area overlooking the water and a series of lovely trails winding through lush forest. You can visit the Oyster River Hatchery, check out the seals and sea lions in Seal Bay Regional Park, do some saltwater fishing for salmon, or even rent a go-cart and race around the Saratoga Speedway, or just watch others do it.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$40
 / night
Forest Sanctuary

3. Forest Sanctuary

99%
(111)
6 sites · Tents · Roberts Creek, BC
Hi. My name is Christian and welcome to my beautiful Forest Sanctuary on the slopes of Mt. Elphinstone in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast. My property is a magical private nature retreat created in the spirit of love and reverence for the land on which it is built. It is a sanctuary to nurture the body, mind and spirit. A place to come back to One's Self. I have taken a piece of forest and transformed it into a Premium camping experience with pastures, terraces, pathways, a pond and island, level campsites with grass and sand and a communal outdoor pavilion lounge with fully stocked kitchen at your disposal. A large communal campfire is available. I have solar showers too. This is a magnificent place to bring the kids, a wonderful place to hang with friends and family, a peaceful place for lovers and a great place to come on your own to remember how awesome and talented you really are. I can accommodate larger groups, workshops, parties and special events. Ask me about renting the entire site for your private event and family and friend gatherings. Please note, these are walk-in campsites. Park and make a short walk to your beautiful campsite. One large grass pasture is available upon request for car, campervan and RV camping. My fully stocked pavilion, kitchen and lounge has all the cookware, dishware and utensils needed to prepare your meal. There is also a BBQ and Coleman stove with propane provided. Drinking water is provided. Firewood is sold onsite for when campfires are permitted. Propane fire pit rentals available. For bathing I have cold showers and seasonal warm solar showers on hot days. Plus an aquifer-fed pond for clean, cold water dips. If you want something a little fancier I have a great little off-grid camping cabin and a Bell tent. Ask me about them. A beautiful mobile sauna care of Pranasauna is available for rent. Roberts Creek is a peaceful, eclectic, rural community seated between Gibsons and Sechelt, and possesses a stunning blend of beaches, forest, and some of the friendliest people you will come across. A relaxing atmosphere awaits you here, where both your artistic and outdoor adventure self is sure to feel at home. Please note I am two kms up a well maintained private gravel road. 2 wheel drive vehicles are ok.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$100
 / night
Dashwood Meadows

4. Dashwood Meadows

98%
(238)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC
Welcome to Dashwood Meadows! We are located in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. This is a hobby farm with sheep, mini goats, donkey, dog and cat. We grow berries, plums, cherries, nuts and wildflowers. Child-friendly and family friendly environment. You can walk the labyrinth of forest trails nearby. There is a beach 9 km from the farm. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, provincial parks, caves, golf courses, children's playgrounds and country markets, all within less than an hour's drive. In Qualicum Beach, you will find amazing sandy beaches, picture-perfect views, world-class biking and hiking trails, salt-tinged ocean air, and the small town charm of our communities. Seeing goats on a roof, exploring underground caves, strolling endless beaches at low tide, and walking among ancient old-growth forests are just some of the experiences you’ll be able to tell your friends about back home.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$54
 / night
Murphy’s Farm

5. Murphy’s Farm

98%
(58)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Parksville, BC
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 Our lovely grass area looks out over our paddock that contains 3 horses and a mini donkey. We also have 3 dogs and 3 cats Our dogs are friendly We have a 10 month old bernedoodle, a 4 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 propane) and an quiet eating area Pets allowed on leash No Visitors Please
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$36
 / night
Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

6. Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

95%
(219)
11 sites · Tents, RVs · Campbell River, BC
A beautiful campsite located in Campbell River, BC. Pastoral open field for RVs & tents. Easy access from the road and private secluded sites for single vehicles & tenters. We can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. No services/utilities this year. Only a 2-minute walk to the beach and several trails. Shelter Point Distillery is just next door. Other activities near include wandering along oceanside trails, fishing for salmon, swimming, or simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying nature. The region is a mecca for outdoor and marine enthusiasts as it boasts 5 Provincial Parks, several marine parks, golf courses, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing hotspots galore. Explore the wilds of Strathcona Provincial Park, paddle the calm waters of the estuary, get out on the water for a thrilling whale-watching excursion and so much more. Pets welcome, campfires permitted according to BC Forest fire ban limits. 10 sites available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$45
 / night
Alpaca Haven

7. Alpaca Haven

99%
(76)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Parksville, BC
Recently moved to property to begin our new journey, this property holds an immense sense of peace and wellness, grazed by lamas and alpacas for past 2 decades &10acre farm property completely fenced in and void from predators, general public, and unwanted guests. Pockets of old cedars, ponds, forest trail and privacy. Feel at one with surrounding nature. Gated and fenced in access points for use coordinating with grazing animals. Learn more about this land: Our property is located in between Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Vancouver Island! We have a friendly, small alpaca herd and 6 blissfully friendly goats. You have the option to interact with them if you'd like! We are minutes from beautiful ocean beaches, river access, lush green trails, or the amenities of the Parksville/Qualicum Oceanside region.  Parksville is one of Canada's most popular summer destinations for families. Everyone loves Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, with its beaches, tidal flats and pools, and wildlife. Quiet nights with moonlight, stars, crickets singing and owls hooting. Qualicum Airport and restaurants nearby. You'll have access to potable water from the well if needed. Pets are welcome at the discretion of property owners. Campers can expect a peaceful retreat closely located to some of Vancouver Islands' most sought off adventures, experiences, and memories.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
CA$60
 / night
Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

8. Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%
(9)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$102
 / night

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

The best family-friendly camping in Hornby Island guide

Where to go

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Home to the sandy beach and warm water of Tribune Bay, this provincial park is one of the most popular spots on Hornby Island. There are a few camping options within walking distance of the park, including the largest campground on the island, Tribune Bay Campground. Make sure you book a Tribune Bay campsite in advance, as it gets very busy in summer. An outdoor adventure centre also entertains families with tent camping. Just remember: Don’t confuse family-friendly Tribune Bay Beach with Little Tribune Bay Beach—the “little” one is clothing-optional.

Helliwell Provincial Park

At the southeast tip of the island is Helliwell Provincial Park. There is no camping within the park, but on a small island such as this, the campgrounds near Tribune Bay are also close to Helliwell. The park is popular for birding and wildlife watching, canoeing, and even scuba diving, as well as hiking along the bluffs for stunning bay views. Head north to Whaling Station Bay for a swim—it’s one of the most popular beaches on the island.

Ford's Cove and Mount Geoffrey Escarpment Park

On the west side of the island, Ford’s Cove has a small campground, a marina, and a shop. The beach is known for strange rock formations, which campers check out before heading onto the water for fishing or kayaking from Ford’s Cove. You can also stay on land to take the short walk to Mount Geoffrey Provincial Park. Here, you can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the three trails, and take in the views from the rocky cliffs.