The best campgrounds near Nanaimo, British Columbia with horseback riding

On Vancouver Island’s east coast, Nanaimo is a hub for adventures across the island. Based in this waterfront city set 113 kilometres from British Columbia’s capital of Victoria, you can check out wineries, beaches, and old-growth forests. It’s also the most convenient ferry port for continuing west to Tofino and the Pacific Coast. Surrounding Nanaimo are campgrounds by the ocean or along inland lakes, including Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park, Westwood Lake Campgrounds, RV Resort on the Lake, Brannen Lake RV Park & Campsite, and Jinglepot RV Park & Campgrounds. You can camp at several islands or provincial parks nearby, too.

A short 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, this island is the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and has a small tent camping area with washrooms and showers. You can lounge on one of the pebbly beaches or wander 23 kilometres of walking trails.

A 30- to 40-minute drive north of Nanaimo, the coastal communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach are popular with campers. A number of RV resorts and private campgrounds welcome families, or you can camp in several provincial parks. A favorite is Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, where the tenting spots and RV sites are near a sandy beach.

South of Nanaimo and between the towns of Duncan and Cobble Hill, Vancouver Island’s wine country offers family-run wineries, cider makers, and distillers. You’ll find several campgrounds in this area, with more camping options to the west along Cowichan Lake.

Most of the campgrounds near British Columbia’s waterfront capital are north or west of the city. The forested Malahat Mountain Meadows RV Park is near the summit of Malahat Drive with views over the Gulf Islands. Hike among massive firs and western red cedars in Goldstream Provincial Park, or camp by the water at Island View Regional Park on the Saanich Peninsula.

94% (528)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nanaimo

On Vancouver Island’s east coast, Nanaimo is a hub for adventures across the island. Based in this waterfront city set 113 kilometres from British Columbia’s capital of Victoria, you can check out wineries, beaches, and old-growth forests. It’s also the most convenient ferry port for continuing west to Tofino and the Pacific Coast. Surrounding Nanaimo are campgrounds by the ocean or along inland lakes, including Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park, Westwood Lake Campgrounds, RV Resort on the Lake, Brannen Lake RV Park & Campsite, and Jinglepot RV Park & Campgrounds. You can camp at several islands or provincial parks nearby, too.

A short 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, this island is the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and has a small tent camping area with washrooms and showers. You can lounge on one of the pebbly beaches or wander 23 kilometres of walking trails.

A 30- to 40-minute drive north of Nanaimo, the coastal communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach are popular with campers. A number of RV resorts and private campgrounds welcome families, or you can camp in several provincial parks. A favorite is Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, where the tenting spots and RV sites are near a sandy beach.

South of Nanaimo and between the towns of Duncan and Cobble Hill, Vancouver Island’s wine country offers family-run wineries, cider makers, and distillers. You’ll find several campgrounds in this area, with more camping options to the west along Cowichan Lake.

Most of the campgrounds near British Columbia’s waterfront capital are north or west of the city. The forested Malahat Mountain Meadows RV Park is near the summit of Malahat Drive with views over the Gulf Islands. Hike among massive firs and western red cedars in Goldstream Provincial Park, or camp by the water at Island View Regional Park on the Saanich Peninsula.

94% (528)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nanaimo

1. Moon Gate Farms

100%

(132)

40km from Nanaimo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

2. Strongwater Camping and Cabins

97%

(29)

67km from Nanaimo · 10 sites · Lodging

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.

3. Sunshine Coast Green Zone

98%

(64)

40km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

This property was purchased nearly half a century ago. For the majority of this time the forest section you will be camping in was left undeveloped, apart from a few mountain bike trails. Recently, as a family, we have seen a large increase in the people traveling to the Sunshine Coast to escape the city limits. Unable to rock up to a campsite and pick our spot like we used to, it was easy to see a growing demand. We have taken everything we love about camping and done our best to give you a sense of what life on the Coast is really about. Please note: By entering onto the property you release all liabilities towards us as hosts. You are choosing to camp in a forested area that contains many hazards as well as potential threats. These include but are not limited to; Wild life (bears, bob cats, cougars etc), Fire is a serious threat to this region during summer months strict no smoking policy is in effect. Care should be taken walking around uneven surfaces. All campers are required to stay within camp boundaries fail to follow these protocols will result in being asked to leave. Please respect this piece of land as much as we do. ~Hope you enjoy your time on the Sunshine Coast

4. Dashwood Meadows

98%

(238)

51km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

5. Prospect Lake View

90%

(39)

79km from Nanaimo · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are situated on a 1.5 acre plot, set amidst rural surroundings. It is a very quiet and peaceful community set on the shores of the lake and surrounded by magnificent trees and greenery. There is limited bus service about a 20 minute walk away so a car is recommended. We are about a 25 minute drive away from Sidney, where most people will arrive by plane or ferry from the mainland, and also about 25 minutes away from downtown Victoria. The driveway from the street up to the front of our house is a paved sloped driveway and from there the access to the camping site is a sloped and curving dirt road. You don’t need a four-wheel-drive to get up it. We just want to be sure you are aware. The area itself is a level piece of ground to the side of our house. It is approximately 30 ' X 30 ', big enough for a small camper van and a tent. Please note it’s not a camping space like you would find in a provincial park. There’s no picnic bench or fire pit. In any case open flames are not allowed. Portable propane powered camping stoves are fine. We can supply a couple of plastic chairs and a small cocktail sized table. The facilities are comprised of a toilet in a small room in our basement and a utility sink just outside, accessed through the sunroom and down the back stairs. Pets are welcome, but must be on a leash or otherwise kept under control and not allowed to run loose. We have three cats ourselves, and they have access to the sunroom. We are just letting you know in case you are allergic. Also, we might occasionally sit in the sunroom ourselves and we don't mind you passing through on your way to and from the facilities, if you don't mind us being in there on occasion. There is no bath or shower available. You are advised to bring your own face and/or hand towels if needed. You also need to be prepared to take away your own recycling, garbage and organics.

6. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

99%

(84)

26km from Nanaimo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

89%

(119)

69km from Nanaimo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Are you looking for a secluded camping experience with a lot of privacy? Bring your tent and stay at one of our wilderness campsites. Our basic Campsites have picnic tables, fire pits and an outhouse close by. And if you want, you can explore the farm and all our animals or one of the many hiking trails close by. Firewood is available for a charge.Our property is located in Shawnigan Lake, BC on Vancouver Island. The area is renowned for its rugged beauty and its 7-kilometre long lake that provides the opportunity for fishing, swimming and sunbathing in the summer.Nearby is the recently restored Kinsol Trestle named for the short-lived “King Solomon Mine”. Restored in 2011, it is an engineering feat, even by today’s standards and remains one of the loftiest wooden railway trestles in the world.We look forward to hosting you!

8. Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%

(62)

54km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Enjoy camping on our quiet and peaceful campsite located in Cowichan Valley BC on Vancouver Island! We welcome campers with tents or camper vans (maximum vehicle length= 25ft). Much of the property is treed with second-growth cedar, hemlock and some fir trees. Our property is designed for you to unwind and relax. We have an outhouse available for campers to use as well as a hand pump for water. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore; Kinsol Trestle is close to our property. Hikers will love the proximity to the Mount Tzouhalem Kaspa Trailhead, and mountain bikers will find this a great location for their sport. For those looking for a more relaxing vacation, unwind in the surrounding gardens and take in the beautiful views.  We are 15 minutes to the closest town where you can stock up on all essentials! Great for families looking to get outside and enjoy nature at its finest. We look forward to hosting you!

9. Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

28km from Nanaimo · 48 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Camper favorites near Nanaimo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Dashwood Meadows

98%

(238)

51km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Prospect Lake View

90%

(39)

79km from Nanaimo · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are situated on a 1.5 acre plot, set amidst rural surroundings. It is a very quiet and peaceful community set on the shores of the lake and surrounded by magnificent trees and greenery. There is limited bus service about a 20 minute walk away so a car is recommended. We are about a 25 minute drive away from Sidney, where most people will arrive by plane or ferry from the mainland, and also about 25 minutes away from downtown Victoria. The driveway from the street up to the front of our house is a paved sloped driveway and from there the access to the camping site is a sloped and curving dirt road. You don’t need a four-wheel-drive to get up it. We just want to be sure you are aware. The area itself is a level piece of ground to the side of our house. It is approximately 30 ' X 30 ', big enough for a small camper van and a tent. Please note it’s not a camping space like you would find in a provincial park. There’s no picnic bench or fire pit. In any case open flames are not allowed. Portable propane powered camping stoves are fine. We can supply a couple of plastic chairs and a small cocktail sized table. The facilities are comprised of a toilet in a small room in our basement and a utility sink just outside, accessed through the sunroom and down the back stairs. Pets are welcome, but must be on a leash or otherwise kept under control and not allowed to run loose. We have three cats ourselves, and they have access to the sunroom. We are just letting you know in case you are allergic. Also, we might occasionally sit in the sunroom ourselves and we don't mind you passing through on your way to and from the facilities, if you don't mind us being in there on occasion. There is no bath or shower available. You are advised to bring your own face and/or hand towels if needed. You also need to be prepared to take away your own recycling, garbage and organics.

Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

99%

(84)

26km from Nanaimo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

89%

(119)

69km from Nanaimo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Are you looking for a secluded camping experience with a lot of privacy? Bring your tent and stay at one of our wilderness campsites. Our basic Campsites have picnic tables, fire pits and an outhouse close by. And if you want, you can explore the farm and all our animals or one of the many hiking trails close by. Firewood is available for a charge.Our property is located in Shawnigan Lake, BC on Vancouver Island. The area is renowned for its rugged beauty and its 7-kilometre long lake that provides the opportunity for fishing, swimming and sunbathing in the summer.Nearby is the recently restored Kinsol Trestle named for the short-lived “King Solomon Mine”. Restored in 2011, it is an engineering feat, even by today’s standards and remains one of the loftiest wooden railway trestles in the world.We look forward to hosting you!

Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%

(62)

54km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Enjoy camping on our quiet and peaceful campsite located in Cowichan Valley BC on Vancouver Island! We welcome campers with tents or camper vans (maximum vehicle length= 25ft). Much of the property is treed with second-growth cedar, hemlock and some fir trees. Our property is designed for you to unwind and relax. We have an outhouse available for campers to use as well as a hand pump for water. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore; Kinsol Trestle is close to our property. Hikers will love the proximity to the Mount Tzouhalem Kaspa Trailhead, and mountain bikers will find this a great location for their sport. For those looking for a more relaxing vacation, unwind in the surrounding gardens and take in the beautiful views.  We are 15 minutes to the closest town where you can stock up on all essentials! Great for families looking to get outside and enjoy nature at its finest. We look forward to hosting you!

Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

28km from Nanaimo · 48 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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.

M

Mario

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

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

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.

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.

A

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.

An overview of the established site, showing the amount of space.

M

Melissa

September 2025

14 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

We stayed for the weekend in site 1. It was the furthest from the house , so nice and private and quiet. We did a wine tour on our e bikes and went swimming at the River . It was a lovely stay, and the hosts were great and even left fresh tomatoes . I would definitely recommend !

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.

Cindy

September 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

This site was just what we needed for a bit of a break before catching the Nanaimo ferry (30 min away). Cory and Trish were very quick to respond to any questions, including the whereabouts of a local dog friendly beach. The bathroom for the camp sites was beyond expectations. And of course, The Rocking Horse Pub just down the road is really such a perc.

s

sharon

August 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

The site is huge! Nice and flat, potable water and power hook-ups. Trash, compost and recycling at the site. Flush toilet and sink very close to site. Hosts are very friendly and relaxed, ensuring guests enjoy their stay while allowing privacy. The site and bathroom was very clean. The field for our dog to run off-leash was a wonderful treat and Teddy had a blast! The area is quiet with beautiful star gazing at night. Lots to see and do, great hiking and swim spots close by. We enjoyed our stay very much! Absolutely recommend !

The main barn, you'd see when you drive in

J

Jan

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

Exactly communication. A nice beautiful farm in the woods with a private camp site

The sunset at Bonniebrook Beach, just a short 10 min drive away, was absolutely breathtaking.

m

marcus

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunshine Coast Green Zone

Great setup The camp kitchen is convenient plenty of space

P

Project

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

It’s a nice peaceful spot with privacy and nature.

W

Wendy

August 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

6 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

We loved camping at Cory's campsite. It was a beautiful setting, set up well - tidy and clean. It was so tranquil and quiet. We really enjoyed our time there.

D

Danielle

August 2025

24 ft campervan

With kids

3 nights at Dashwood Meadows

Amazing spot for camping with our 2 young kiddos. Serephina the donkey was the friendliest donkey we've ever met and the whole experience was so wonderful. Great location, great site, easy in and out, and very pleasant interactions with Amanda.

M

Marcia

August 2025

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

Very quiet and tranquil setting. Loud of space and privacy.

B

Becky

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dashwood Meadows

A great spot for our last minute need of somewhere to stay! Amanda’s place was charming, clean and secure! We definitely recommend staying here!

L

Lauren

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Sunshine Coast Green Zone

The bunkhouse was absolutely perfect! Comfy bed, all the amenities you need, and on a beautiful piece of land. The whole family was so welcoming and friendly, we felt very at home!

M

Madeline

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Dashwood Meadows

Amanda was an excellent host and very friendly and helpful. Her land is so beautiful and peaceful and it was an added bonus having the farm animals there. The donkey is particularly hilarious! We loved our stay and would 100% stay again

K

Karen

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Excellent spot to camp!! Nice and private with trees on one side. Cory met us when we arrived and made sure that we knew where everything was. Water, electricity, table and even a flush toilet were all provided. A local pub down the street was an added bonus. Highly recommend this Hipcamp and we will definitely stay here again when we are on the island.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Nanaimo with horseback riding guide

When to go

The busiest season in Nanaimo and across Vancouver Island is late May through mid-October, particularly during the sunny summer months of July and August and on Canadian holiday long weekends. With a temperate rainforest climate, this coastal region receives very little snow, but you should prepare for rain and chilly temperatures between November and April. While spring can still be rainy, it’s also relatively quiet with flowers in bloom March through May.

Know before you go

BC Ferries can take you to Nanaimo from Horseshoe Bay, just outside of Vancouver,. Pedestrians and cyclists can walk onto the ferries, but if you’re taking your car, make a reservation in advance, particularly between late May and mid-October.
Many of the campgrounds close to Nanaimo are designed for RVs, with full-service sites catering to big rigs. Tent campers may prefer the provincial parks or more secluded Gulf Island camping areas.
Cafes and pubs cluster along the narrow streets of Nanaimo’s historic downtown. Larger groceries and big-box stores line the highways sprawling out from the center.