Camping in Hornby Island: The 20 Best Campgrounds

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% (775)

Top-rated campgrounds

Rod and Joyce have a beautiful garden at the front end of the property

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% (775)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Decourcy Meadows

99%

(78)

1 site · RV · Ladysmith, BC

Decourcy Meadows is a peaceful forested site within a short walking distance to a safe local swimming beach. We are an RV-only campsite. The site is level and can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. Electrical, sewage, and potable water hookups included. Amenities include a picnic table, wifi and a fire ring and some fire wood supplied at no cost. If there is a campfire ban in effect we will provide a propane campfire. The property is about half natural forest and so it's not unusual to see local critters, large and small peeking out! There are several hiking trails in the area and local parks as well. There are 3 artisans on Decourcy Drive. The world-famous Crow and Gate pub is 4 km from here and the historic Wheat Sheaf Hotel (Pub) is about 5 km. Local restaurants and Cafes, Groceries, Pharmacy are 5 km. We are a quiet country getaway located 25 minutes from Nanaimo Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. Duke Point Terminal is about 20 minutes. Picturesque town of Ladysmith is about 25 minutes south and the very Unique town of Chemainus is 35 minutes and very worth seeing.

2. Moon Gate Farms

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(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.

3. Poplar Grove Family Farm

97%

(51)

1 site · Tent, RV · Qualicum Beach, BC

Welcome to our secluded and peaceful camping spot nestled on our 10-acre family property, formerly a Poplar Plantation. Located just 1 minute from Alberni Highway in Qualicum Beach, our site offers over 1 km of trails to explore, with the opportunity to wander through lavender or sunflower fields depending on the season. Bring the kids to explore and find more than 40 fairy houses along the trails. Dogs are free to roam off leash. Off Season Nov 1 -March 1 receive a $10 a day discount please message We provide 50 amp and separate 30 amp hookups, filtered potable water, and a grey water dump (no black water) along with dedicated site Wi-Fi access. Your trailer or RV can enjoy a spacious 50 x 15 area, with room for one additional vehicle and multiple tents on grass. We also provide a picnic table for your convenience. Additional options include: Propane fire pit or full-size BBQ rental ($5 per day including propane) Large tote of pre split firewood $10 SUP or kayak rental with deposit (please inquire) Mountain bike rental with deposit (please inquire) PMBIA certified instructor available for guiding at Hammerfest or Cumberland trails (please inquire) Enjoy the convenience of being just 10 minutes away from the ocean in beautiful Qualicum Beach, as well as 10 minutes from Little Qualicum Provincial Park or Cameron Lake. Additionally, you're only 5 minutes away from the world-famous Goats on the Roof in Coombs. Our location also serves as a great stopping point on your trip to Tofino, just 1 minute off the Alberni Hwy.

4. Mi Casa Es Su Casa

2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nanaimo, BC

This home is close to spring beach, we have stand up paddle, 2 kids kayaks, one double kayak. The house is turning into a guest house and camp ground for the summer. BBQ picknik table family and pet friendly. Gabriola is surrounded by beaches and trails. So many things to do. There are drawings on the walls from my kids and cats scratches on door frames, it’s family life here.

5. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%

(90)

1 site · Tent, RV · Black Creek, BC

Learn more about this land: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.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.

6. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

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(84)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

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

7. Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

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(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.

8. Salmon Point on Nature Trail

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(78)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Campbell River, BC

This is a natural rustic west coast experience of peaceful wilderness where there are possible sightings of deer, bears, seals, herons, eagles, swans, geese, ducks and many songbirds depending on the seasons. The property is located at Salmon Point between Campbell River and Comox/Courtenay, BC. This is your gateway to everything that makes Vancouver Island the ultimate destination if you love the outdoors. Saltwater and beach fishing, kayaking, boating, golfing, and hiking are just minutes away. There is a resort and marina across the road and an Italian kitchen restaurant . Shelter Point Distillery property is adjacent to the property. The trail goes along the ocean, through old-growth forests and along the river ending at a grocery, liquor store, coffee and pizza place, medical clinic and a small pharmacy. The property does have an outhouse, electrical plug-in option at house and water hose close to house. This place is best suited for self-contained campers who can park in the open field or under fir trees near to the house. Tents, smaller travel trailers and camper vans can be accommodated. In the early 1900s, a hotel was on the property that serviced the ships heading north in the straight and those travelling between Campbell River and Courteney. The area is within 2 km of two large sand beaches, a Chinese restaurant, and a Spa. Between Salmon Point and Courtney, you will find farm land with local fruits, vegetables, eggs and meat for sale and wineries.

9. The Field Of Dreams

87%

(23)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Courtenay, BC

You will cross the bridge of troubled waters and enter your dream space for simple relaxation. Experience the beauty of a wide open field, mountain and forest glimpses, and the peace of mind that comes with being so removed. Yet, this property is only 10 minutes from town, has a general store within 500m and only 5 minutes from Kitty Coleman Park, Seal Bay Forest Trails and the Tsolum River!

10. 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.

11. Private & Peaceful Escape

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(5)

1 site · Lodging · Courtenay, BC

🌿 Peaceful Private Escape Near Comox Valley & Campbell River 🌿 Escape to this quiet, private, and peaceful bachelor suite, perfect for 1-2 people seeking a relaxing getaway. Located between Comox Valley and Campbell River, this cozy retreat offers easy access to some of Vancouver Island’s best outdoor adventures. Enjoy being just a short drive from: • Mount Washington – Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter. • Miracle Beach & Saratoga Beach – Perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. • Kayaking, rivers, and lakes – Explore the region’s serene waterways. • Golf courses and hiking trails – For outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. • Ocean adventures – Discover nearby coastal activities and breathtaking views. The suite is fully furnished and features: • Wi-Fi for staying connected. • A fireplace for cozy evenings. • A heat pump and air conditioning for year-round comfort. • A garden view for a peaceful, scenic backdrop. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this suite offers the privacy, comfort, and tranquility you’re looking for. ✨ Book your stay and experience the beauty of Vancouver Island!

12. Dashwood Meadows

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(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.

13. BLACK POINT ESCAPE

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Powell River, BC

Camp or stay at our place! Five minute walk to a private beach. Steps away from a local convenience store. On the route to the ferry. Private lot. Hammocks, fire pit, yard games. Hiking trails in the back yard and a beach a short walk away. Close to a number of local farmstands . Flat rv space with electricity hookup. Indoor kitchen and bathroom facility for use. Outdoor camp spots for tents available Fire pit Yard games Open sky view Whale watching

14. Dubois Road

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(1)

2 sites · RVs · Kleindale, BC

Hello we have just under two acres of land right on hwy 1 just up from the Petrocan we use our land to sell mobiles and boat storage. We are perfectly situated ten minutes from Madeira Park and close to all the lakes garden bay , ruby lake. We can offer waste disposal at an extra charge, we are close to hiking trails and the ocean.

15. Lot4.Caycuse

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(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.

16. 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)

17. Lily Lake Rock

2 sites · Lodging · Madeira Park, BC

Cabin and RV on the property with the lake view and close to the beaches and shopping

18. Island Serenity Camp & Forest Walk

1 site · Tent, RV · Parksville, BC

**Kids camp free and don't need to be added to the booking total!** Small acreage with direct access to adjacent crown land forest and hiking walk trails joining Enos Lake. A short walk or drive to the ocean at Moorecroft Park (less than 1km). Camp fire area with free fire wood, dark at night for star gazing, surrounded by forest, large lawn play area for kids, timber swing set, usually hear sealions and owls at night, chickens/fresh eggs. Private camping area. Deep bedrock well water available, Tent, camper, small trailer or van. Owner lives in main house on property. No pets please. Free camp fire wood on site for the fire pit. Schooner Cove Marina is just down the road and offers a fishing boat launch. Several kayak launching spots close by. This is one private site being offered, best for one family/couple at a time in order to ensure privacy for you and me as well. Summer 2024 - no washroom/shower available during renovations - must have own camper/RV toilet.

Camper favorites in and near Hornby Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

BLACK POINT ESCAPE

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Powell River, BC

Camp or stay at our place! Five minute walk to a private beach. Steps away from a local convenience store. On the route to the ferry. Private lot. Hammocks, fire pit, yard games. Hiking trails in the back yard and a beach a short walk away. Close to a number of local farmstands . Flat rv space with electricity hookup. Indoor kitchen and bathroom facility for use. Outdoor camp spots for tents available Fire pit Yard games Open sky view Whale watching

Dubois Road

100%

(1)

2 sites · RVs · Kleindale, BC

Hello we have just under two acres of land right on hwy 1 just up from the Petrocan we use our land to sell mobiles and boat storage. We are perfectly situated ten minutes from Madeira Park and close to all the lakes garden bay , ruby lake. We can offer waste disposal at an extra charge, we are close to hiking trails and the ocean.

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.

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)

Lily Lake Rock

2 sites · Lodging · Madeira Park, BC

Cabin and RV on the property with the lake view and close to the beaches and shopping

Island Serenity Camp & Forest Walk

1 site · Tent, RV · Parksville, BC

**Kids camp free and don't need to be added to the booking total!** Small acreage with direct access to adjacent crown land forest and hiking walk trails joining Enos Lake. A short walk or drive to the ocean at Moorecroft Park (less than 1km). Camp fire area with free fire wood, dark at night for star gazing, surrounded by forest, large lawn play area for kids, timber swing set, usually hear sealions and owls at night, chickens/fresh eggs. Private camping area. Deep bedrock well water available, Tent, camper, small trailer or van. Owner lives in main house on property. No pets please. Free camp fire wood on site for the fire pit. Schooner Cove Marina is just down the road and offers a fishing boat launch. Several kayak launching spots close by. This is one private site being offered, best for one family/couple at a time in order to ensure privacy for you and me as well. Summer 2024 - no washroom/shower available during renovations - must have own camper/RV toilet.

Stories from the community

B

Betsy

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Poplar Grove Family Farm

Peaceful and private, Lisa was very attentive and quick to respond to messages

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Ella

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Poplar Grove Family Farm

A nice private spot! Far away from main roads that there was minimal noise, but still close to town

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

We had terrible weather the night we stayed and the owners were super hospitable. They let us use the shop front to keep dry and warm which was greatly appreciated.

H

Hannah

October 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Great stay! Had everything I needed and was a great stop from the ferry to Tofino

Ian

October 2025

27 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Decourcy Meadows

Great, private, clean and lots of trails. And great hosts. Dogs had a blast.

The view from bed of Karen’s beautiful garden.

Christin

October 2025

1 night at Private & Peaceful Escape

I had a great stay, and it really is a private and peaceful escape! The bed was super comfy, and the big windows look out onto Katie’s beautiful garden. The kitchen is well-equipped with all kinds of gadgets: an Instant Pot, air fryer, toaster oven, hot plate, microwave, coffee maker, and kettle 😄. The electric fireplace adds a cozy vibe when you’re relaxing on the couch at night. It was lovely meeting Katie and her absolutely adorable toy poodle, Rico. The suite is a perfect base for exploring the area, and I would definitely stay here again!

A fire pit and firewood are provided. What a great perk!

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Amanda

September 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Decourcy Meadows

We enjoyed Decourcy Meadows place so much that we went back for a second stay at the end of our trip. Once again, everything was great! Rod and his wife were super accommodating. If you are looking for a quiet place with full hookups this should be on your list of places to check out!

Sara

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

We loved tent camping on Paul's property, we drove around and looked at every site and ended up picking site 8 for it's privacy and cute little pond area, though we would have been ecstatic with any of the sites as they were all private and tidy. Boyd and Ace (resident campers we ran into) were also very kind and Ace was fun to pet! (He's a dog haha) the ocean was walking distance away which was also very nice. Paul even offered to deliver firewood to us and build us a cozy campfire! Would definitely recommend staying here if you're looking for a secluded, private, clean place to camp. We'll definitely be back next year!

A

Andrew

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Private & Peaceful Escape

We loved staying here. Place was clean, had plenty of amenities and Katie communicated well! 10/10 will visit again

J

John

September 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Decourcy Meadows

Wonderful stay at The Meadow. Nicely equipped and private RV site backed by huge trees. Short walk to the ocean and quick drives to two very nice pubs, The Crow and Gate being spectacular.

M

Monique

September 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Poplar Grove Family Farm

It was a beautiful spot! Thank you Lisa for the extra touches like the solar lights along the property, the bin of necessary items, the garbage bins and water. We wish we could have stayed longer and hope to be back Someday!! M & G

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Geert

September 2025

27 ft Class C

1 night at Poplar Grove Family Farm

Such as great spot! We had very much space to park thé RV. Accualy we did not hear a thing, just thé sound of nature. The house of Lisa was about 400 meters away and everthing was taken Care for: water and electricity.

A

Amanda

September 2025

27 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Decourcy Meadows

We had a wonderful stay at Decourcy Meadows. Easy to find, easy to park, wonderful host and has everything you need. Super quiet and peaceful location. Absolutely recommend!

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Alastair

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Camping site was flat and even. Bathroom was fantastic. Rabbits coming to visit in the evening were definitely a plus. All around a great venue.

Stephanie

September 2025

20 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Poplar Grove Family Farm

This was a really great spot that I enjoyed with my dogs for two nights. I found it very private and peaceful and Lisa was a great host. Highly recommended and I look forwad to coming back!

T

Tom

September 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Salmon Point on Nature Trail

This was a lovely camp spot which was very quiet and peaceful beneath the trees. There were hammocks and tables available to use. It was also a short walk to the coast. We had it to ourselves for the one night, as we travelled in mid-September

N

Nikolas

September 2025

21 ft campervan

4 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Great private area, we were able to enjoy the open field.. The host was really helpful in finding the spot and always answered any questions.

T

Trish

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

The hosts were absolutely fantastic, friendly helpful and very welcoming. The location is beautiful, very close to wonderful beaches. The salt water pool, lama's and other animals were all nice extras.

Johanna

September 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

Great host! Paul really cares for his property and set up a bunch of lovely, private, level, spaced out options(watch for slugs in the grass if you venture out on warm summer nights.) Came back for a second night knowing that finding something else in a busy holiday weekend was like playing chicken:) neighboring campers were all quiet and friendly and Paul was accessible if we needed anything. Nice touches like signage and clearly marked spot, clean potty, water. Thanks for giving us a nice spot on our journey! Probably one of the best most welcoming hip camps we have ever stayed in!!!! Would definitely recommend a stay here. Close to fun mountain biking and beach resort and lake options too. Thanks!

J

Jennifer

September 2025

24 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salmon Point on Nature Trail

Lovely, quiet spot to return to after exploring the island. There’s a great path that runs along the beach. There’s an outhouse, water, and loads of blackberries for breakfast.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best 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.