The best mountainous campgrounds 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.

97% (597)

Top-rated campgrounds

A map of our 10-acre property with our sites and amenities listed

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.

97% (597)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

92%

(299)

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.

2. theDoighouse Earthship

99%

(268)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Qualicum Bay, BC

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

3. Moon Gate Farms

100%

(132)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

We are currently undergoing renovations and will be closed until finished. Moon Gate Farms offers an unique glamping and camping experience in Roberts Creek, BC. Please note we have strict quiet times from 9pm to 8am. The property is just a 10-minute drive from beaches, restaurants, and hiking trails. Moon Gate farms is an ideal getaway for a nature experience and perfect for mountain walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, or couples looking to escape into the wilderness. Communal outdoor kitchen with camp stove, prep tables, toaster, microwave, are provided. Hot outdoor showers and flushing toilets. Friendly canine campers are also invited. We have two resident Bernese mountain x black retriever dogs who love to bark when campers arrive! They are friendly and settle quickly when told to sit and chill. The best way to get directions is to use Google Maps and follow directions to Moon Gate Farms in Roberts Creek. We are pinned on the map on East Wilson Forest Service Rd.

4. Alpine View Full Service RV PAD

1 site · RV · Parksville, BC

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

5. Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

100%

(4)

4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Garden Bay, BC

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

6. Strongwater Camping and Cabins

97%

(29)

10 sites · Lodging · Egmont, BC

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

7. Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Port Alberni, BC

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

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!

9. Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

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

10. Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

7 sites · Lodging · Powell River, BC

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

11. 2 Tide on the Hillside

88%

(4)

1 site · Lodging · Egmont, BC

12. Lot4.Caycuse

100%

(3)

1 site · Lodging · 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.

Camper favorites in and near Hornby Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Port Alberni, BC

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

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!

Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

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

Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

7 sites · Lodging · Powell River, BC

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

2 Tide on the Hillside

88%

(4)

1 site · Lodging · Egmont, BC

Lot4.Caycuse

100%

(3)

1 site · Lodging · 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.

Stories from the community

K

Kyle

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

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

J

Jordan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

Putting the final touches to the cabin garden.

k

kevin

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at theDoighouse Earthship

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

M

Mario

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

G

Gannon

October 2025

Tent

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

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

S

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

c

christopher

October 2025

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

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

P

Pierre

September 2025

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

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

K

Katie

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

Peta

September 2025

1 night at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

There's lot of room around the cabin to play and enjoy.

Christin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Staying in Karen & Kito's A-frame cabin was a super unique experience! With a solar-powered battery, a little propane heater a stove and BBQ, I had everything I needed to enjoy a lovely night at the Tiny Secrets Farm :) I was able to have the window wall open late into the night. There were no bugs!! It was fun to explore the property, visit the rabbits and chickens and chat with Dan, the caretaker, who was super friendly and made sure I had a great stay! I really loved how quiet and peaceful it was! The shower is rustic but hot water is really all I needed ;)

G

Gillian

September 2025

3 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Love this little micro cabin! It was well stocked with everything one could need and oh so cozy. The loft is so fun (gets a little warm at times) and the multi directional windows are great for letting a breeze through. The compost toilet isn’t my favourite but I am grateful for a warm shower (it’s a little inconsistent but it’s not cold!) Dan the groundskeeper and Kito and Karen are all lovely and leave you to relax but are readily available should you need anything. Very kind and receptive hosts. Looking forward to returning one day ☺️

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

Lisa

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

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

a

aria

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

Campsite in the woods with everything that you need, including solar lights lol

L

Laura

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

The property is beautiful and a great setup with so much equipment! Made our experience much easier and more pleasant. We also loved visiting the chickens and rabbits on site. The on-sight staff, Dan, was a joy and made us feel so welcome.

Beautiful, large sunny campsite with picnic table and fire pit.

Mark

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

For an overnight stop whilst cycle touring this is a good bet. However, the climb up from the main highway is very steep in parts. But the downhill the next morning is a great start to the day. The shower was VERY hot and needed adjusting. There is only one shower and one toilet so plan your ablutions well in advance.

Laura

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tranquility by the Lake

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

B

Ben

August 2025

38 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

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

P

Phoebe

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Well maintained and managed site! Highly recommended.

Gravel driveway with deck suitable for pitching tent. Shown here with a small RV.

C

Charlotte

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Karen and Kito put a lot of love into their little slice of paradise and you can really feel it. There are so many interesting books and crannies to explore.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best mountainous 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.