Discover the best forest campgrounds near Nanaimo, British Columbia

Canada
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British Columbia
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Nanaimo

96% (1006 reviews)

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12 top forest campgrounds near Nanaimo

93%

(48)

Island Gertie

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Gabriola Island Trust Area, BC

The Gertie Bus is located a 5 min walk to a beautiful white sand beach (at low tide). There are walking trails all around and lots of beach access. Tucked into the front of our property in the quiet of Gabriola island you’ll find the converted Gertie bus with all the amenities you need. The bus has a gas stovetop/oven, bar fridge and sink with grey water system. Equipped kitchen and sofa area to hang out. The standard queen bed is great for sleeping in and relaxing with that second cup of coffee. Mountain biking, hiking, swimming and whale watching are just steps away. There is beach access across the street through a private park with picnic tables, a very old eagles nest and a private access to a rocky beach perfect for sunsets. The home itself has a pottery studio on the main floor with a full time studio Practice. Give Paige a ring if you’d like a tour, she’s usually working away. Our family lives on the top floor. Outside the bus is are lush veggie gardens, fruit trees and a nice private outdoor dining area. A BBQ and solar lights also help with evening hangouts. Family friendly! Also we love animals but we ask that you clean up after your pet and keep any animals that aren’t so great with kids and other animals on leash. We have a dachshund on the property that is friendly and old ( barks at strangers but is all bark I assure you, he just wants to be friends)

99%

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Decourcy Meadows

1 site · RV4 acres · 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.

Red Bell Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Duncan, BC

Access the Cowichan Valley Trail system right from our back yard! Easy access to either enjoy a leisurely walk, hike, bicycle, or horse ride along the trail to many destinations including Lake Cowichan, Shawinigan Lake, Duncan & more... or simply take in the beauty of the private pond area and picnic for the day with access to our Kitchenette with many extras! This is peaceful enjoyable tenting at its finest We have 4 pond tent sites, 1 RV site is situated away from the pond, and 1 camper-van site within a few steps to the pond for visiting your tenting friends; there is a shared bathroom, municipal water, fire-pit, and kitchenette a relaxing sitting area. Enjoy seeing what’s available at our small working hobby farm which includes eggs, chickens, and fresh berries, fruits, vegetables. 15min. to Lake Cowichan or travel 5min. to Duncan, Saturday is Farmers Market all year round and entertainment. Check out the "Duncan Showroom" or other venues for nightly live entertainment! Explore the many side streets for unique stores & food that is unique to Duncan. Did you know Duncan has 40 totem poles to find throughout the town? Visit local wineries, breweries, distilleries, Raptors bird Sanctuary, Hand of Man Museum, or many other sights! We’re also an easy drive away from Ladysmith, Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay (warmest ocean water on the island), or look for one of the largest Trestle bridges in North America... Just provide us with an idea of what you'd like to see and we can help with your adventure! Only 1hr from Victoria or Nanaimo.

Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Tsawwassen, BC

Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat “Imagine if you will, the setting sun, orange, huge, resting atop the Gulf Islands. The breeze is blowing inland today, bringing along scents of salt air, and all is well. A bald eagle glides overhead, nearly close enough to catch you up to soaring heights. Even before the sun falls out of the sky the luminescent moon rises opposite. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is located in sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ Tsawwassen First Nation Traditional Territory. Conveniently located just minutes from the BC Ferries, easily accessible for travelers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded 6 beaches, one of which you can wind surf. There are many other amenities nearby for your added convivence. Bordered by the Fraser River to the north; Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank and the United States border to the south; the Salish Sea to the west. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on ocean front property, to gather with friends, family, groups, or a beautiful quiet getaway by yourself to recharge. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat also offers space for *Retreats *Weddings *Festivals *Birthdays* Holiday Parties* Corporate Parties* Receptions* Business Meetings* Bridal Showers *Family Events * Engagement Parties * Anniversary's (inquire for more details, pricing etc.) The Glamping Tents are located on a large wooden deck, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, wood burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and carefully selected decor to create an ambiance of tranquility. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of tent. You can unwind and reconnect with nature while indulging in the modern amenities and conveniences we've thoughtfully incorporated into every aspect of your stay. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath a eagles nests, that you can view from the luxury and privacy of your own glamping tent. There is a nearby wooden boardwalk that takes you to the beautiful beachfront where you can have picnics, bike ride, paddle board, bird watch, nature photography, and watch some breath-taking sunsets. Book your stay with us today and embark on a remarkable retreat that will leave you refreshed, renewed, and forever transformed. Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat, your gateway to tranquility and personal growth.

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Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

13 sites · Lodging10 acres · Halfmoon Bay, BC

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 a wide assortment of intriguing tiny homes. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabin, glamping tent, and new additions, like our luxury tent trailer, bell tent, and furnished campsites in the forest. Our property is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond, our new small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails on our property, 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 10 years.

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Tranquil Escape

2 sites · Lodging36 acres · Cedar, BC

This 36 acre farm offers a tranquil, treed setting with direct access to the great outdoors and ample outdoor recreation all year round. Watch horses and deer that regularly pass by. Local attractions in the area include Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, Gabriola Island, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, and Neck Point Park.

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Shirewoods Farm

1 site · Lodging37 acres · Nanaimo, BC

A countryside retreat overlooking pastures with both wildlife and horses.Enjoy a relaxing getaway at Prancing Pony Lodging located on a 37 acres farm. The geodome tent includes a queen size bed, kitchenette, and 3 piece bathroom. There's a deck to lounge in the sun, a gazebo sun shelter, and a fire pit. For outdoor adventures, hike next door on 11 kms of trails in Hemer Park or one of the other 70 hiking destinations in the Nanaimo area. Visit Wild Play Nanaimo for adventure courses, axe throwing, zip lines, etc. (10km ~12 minutes drive). Or check out the Nanaimo River swimming hole less than a 5 minutes drive. Shirewoods is a working farm with goats, sheep, horses, pigs, ducks and chickens. On site you can meet the animals, the petting farm has goats, chickens and ducks. Hold a baby goat, or chicken (possibly a lamb), pet a sheep or goat. Say hello to the pigs and horses over the fence. If you'd like an authentic farm experience, please let us know and you can join us for one of our daily life farm activities (for example collecting eggs, helping with feedings, and waterings or other farm experiences).

85%

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Beautiful Rainforest Camping Along the Cowichan River

28 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · East Sahtlam, BC

In the heart of the Cowichan Valley and along the pristine Cowichan river this breathtaking acreage offers nothing short of an incredible experience. Explore our endless rainforest trails, with multiple beaches, tubing, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, campfires, volleyball, swimming in the famous Robson pool and kicking back and enjoying nothing but the sound of water and birds.You may catch a glimpse of many of the local resident animals including semi-wild horses.We have 10 campsites available for tent campers. Amenities include a toilet, potable water and a picnic table.Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, pets are welcomeCowichan River Provincial Park is a 15-minute drive. If it’s outdoor recreation you’re after, Cowichan River is the place to go. Whether you want to go swimming, canoeing, white-water kayaking, tubing, camping, fishing or hiking, or just want to take it easy in the sun, you’re bound to find something to do in this “recreation corridor” south of Duncan.

Hidden Pond Permaculture Farm

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Gabriola, BC

Hidden Pond Permaculture Farm offers beautiful tenting campsites, located in a beautiful forest. Sounds of farm animals and frogs can been heard. Take a tour and learn about what we are doing. Buy fresh food for your dinner. Close to beaches, hiking trails, and local Indigenous History. Long term islanders and can help plan your visit.

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theDoighouse Earthship

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, BC

Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans, and concrete? Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, mere 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. Just an hour north of Nanaimo, our property serves as an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Or don’t leave the island and spend the afternoon eating delicious fresh-made doughnuts at the famous Old Country Market in Coombs, home to the iconic goats on the roof, it’s only a 20-minute drive from our doorstep. Or 10 minutes to the waterfront and delicious ice cream at the Cone Zone. Stay local and discover forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes to an array of hiking paths, or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! Use your All Trails App to discover the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that it was the running shoes that were lost, not the people wearing them! Or stop here for a night en route 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. You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our cozy tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff! 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. It is love for the planet, and people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive. Attend a group tour, or arrange for your own private tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project, and answering any and all questions you may have. We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events. On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily. Come visit, tour, and stay. Susan and Tony Doig

Goats and Boats

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Parksville, BC

Welcome to Goats and Boats, 40 acres of poplar trees planted in straight(ish) rows about 25 years ago. Since then the alders and the evergreens have started to join the party in a big way. The property is a work in progress with a little more space opened up each year. We don't have a lot for amenities, but we have quiet space in nature and animals to visit on your way to/from the outhouse. If you are wanting quiet spaces in nature, that is what we have. We have some grassy areas for tents and RVs. Pets are welcome, but they need to be leashed in respect for the goats' peace and freedom. We are on a gravel road about 2 km from the popular Coombs market (with goats on the roof!). We are a young-ish professional couple with an ever increasing number of very friendly Nigerian dwarf goats, some rabbits, some ducks and two pigs. The number of animals is subject to vary without notice! So ask us before booking if it's important to you. But there are always goats roaming the yard, rabbits running about daily. Deer show up occasionally. As you can see in the photos, our property is more wild. It is not a manicured park but we do try to take good care of it and we hope you will too. There are a lot of activities in the area including go-karts, hiking in provincial parks (Englishman River Falls Parks, Qualicum River Falls Park). Mt Arrowsmith is a challenging hike about 30 minutes drive away. Cathedral Grove is about 20 minutes away. There is lovely swimming and great beaches at Parksville and Qualicum, and much more.

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Forest Hideaway

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Duncan, BC

Hi! We’re your hosts, Seth, Jodie, and Megan Williams. Recently we decided to share our property that we love and have enjoyed so much for two reasons: to give others the opportunity to enjoy it and to put money away for university. Our parents, Mark and Sarah, got behind the vision and are excited to be part of this project with us. We would describe our property as: home…and a really fun place to grow up! Our parents thought that wasn’t descriptive enough for Hipcamp so they’ve helped us describe it more. We live in a quiet neighbourhood in a forest that has been a source of peace, relaxation, and fun for us in our growing up years. We’ve noticed that people who visit here say they feel the same way. With plenty of space for kids to explore and adults to relax, our 3 acre forest is perfect for down time with a book in the hammock or a nature walk before dinner. Amenities and service: A single, tidy campsite with picnic table surrounded by mature and gently manicured forest, as well as a hammock, and a new construction outhouse. (Go dad!) We love hospitality, so though we won’t always be around when you’re here, if we are and you need something you can simply ask and we’ll do our best to provide what you need. To help you feel welcome we provide a fresh, cool jug of drinking water and large container of fresh potable water as well as access to an outside tap to fill water containers if needed (upon request) , power to charge devices (upon request), and a campfire ring with firewood (sorry about the frequent fire bans. Huge bummer. We will post current fire ban status while you’re here.) Surroundings and local attractions: Our property is situated in a low traffic rural residential area within ¬ 3 km to Sandy Pool Regional Park (5 min) A family favourite! ¬ 10 km to the Cowichan Valley Museum (Duncan Totem Tour) (13 min) ¬ 14 km to the Pacific Northwest Raptor Center (15 min) ¬ 19 km to the Hand of Man Museum (20 min) ¬ 20 km to Lake Cowichan (16 min) for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc Note: Lake Cowichan is also home to ‘The Tube Shack’ where you can rent tubes to float down the Cowichan River and catch the Tube Shack Bus back to your car. We do it every summer! Fun fact! It’s a 10-minute bike ride from our house to the Cowichan Valley Bike Trail. *(All destinations calculated from our dining table by Google maps) There are multiple well known hikes within 20 minutes (we suggest googling Stoney Hill Trail, Mt Tzouhalem, and Mt. Prevost.)

Forest camping near Nanaimo guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience in Canada. If you're looking for a forest adventure near Nanaimo, British Columbia, you're in luck! We have over 1,400 options available specifically in that area with a forest terrain. Whether you prefer a cosy campsite nestled in the trees or a rustic cabin surrounded by nature, we've got you covered. With an average price per night of £55 and options as low as £23, there's something for every budget. Looking for highly rated campsites? Check out Shangri La Push (690 reviews), Maple Creek Outfitter Campsites (263 reviews), and Shallow Springs Ranch (213 reviews). And don't worry, popular facilities like campfires, pet-friendly accommodations, and rubbish services are all available. Plus, you can enjoy activities like biking, off-roading (OHV), and climbing. So grab your gear and get ready for an unforgettable forest camping experience near Nanaimo, British Columbia!