The best private sites campgrounds near Nanaimo, British Columbia

Planning a camping trip near Nanaimo, British Columbia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 100 private sites available, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot or a campsite with all the amenities, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Shallow Springs Ranch (213 reviews), Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp (137 reviews), and Guemes North Homestead (133 reviews) for tried and true options. Enjoy popular amenities like pets, rubbish services, and campfires, and partake in exciting activities such as wildlife watching, surfing, and snow sports. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience at an average price of $55 per night, with options as low as $35!

92% (67)

Top-rated campgrounds

Planning a camping trip near Nanaimo, British Columbia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 100 private sites available, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot or a campsite with all the amenities, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Shallow Springs Ranch (213 reviews), Chuckanut Hills Farm & Camp (137 reviews), and Guemes North Homestead (133 reviews) for tried and true options. Enjoy popular amenities like pets, rubbish services, and campfires, and partake in exciting activities such as wildlife watching, surfing, and snow sports. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience at an average price of $55 per night, with options as low as $35!

92% (67)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%

(114)

46km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · BC

Gorgeous forested 5 acre property at the top of Eagle Ridge with a rugged walking trail throughout our land. See ocean glimpses from our trail, walk to Long Harbour in 20 minutes, drive to Ganges in 4 minutes, or cycle to town in 10 minutes. Enjoy all Salt Spring has to offer, by car, by bike or by bus. Come stay with us!

2. Strongwater Camping and Cabins

97%

(29)

67km from Nanaimo · 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.

3. Sunshine Coast Green Zone

98%

(64)

40km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gibsons, BC

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. Valinore Glamping

97%

(30)

35km from Nanaimo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Parksville, BC

Valinore is a beautifully forested 4 acre property. Tucked away and private, but close enough to adventure such as beaches, rivers, lakes as well as markets, restaurants and much more. Our yurts are comfortable and cozy. The site is rustic but contains everything you need for a relaxing and refreshing stay. The location is a few kilometres off of Alberni Hwy and a short drive away from beaches, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, Goats on the Roof, and many hiking and biking trails. The site is also within biking distance to some trails. The Errington Farmers market is a walk or bike ride away. And only a short car ride away are several other nearby markets including Goats on the Roof and the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market.

5. Nile Point - Oceanfront Camping

99%

(57)

70km from Nanaimo · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Sunshine Coast, BC

Hi, my name is Dave. My family and I would like to welcome you to Nile Point, a secluded campsite located on 20 acres of privately owned, oceanfront property on Nelson Island, BC. I consider it the closest thing to paradise. The first you'll need to know about this property is that it's only accessible by boat. This is what makes the campsite so secluded and peaceful. Transportation to and from the island is included with your stay. The stunning 15 minute boat ride to and from Nile Point is one of the many things that makes this a truly unique experience. The second thing you'll need to know is that we offer TWO SITES on the property, a 10x16 TENT PLATFORM and a OCEANFRONT CANVAS TENT WITH ENSUITE (NEW!) with king size bed, in-tent ensuite bathroom and fully stocked outdoor kitchen with potable water, bar fridge and BBQ We have one canoe, one one-person kayak, a two-person kayak, and some paddleboards. Bring your own water exploring devices if you wish. Our beach is rocky (it ain't a sandy beach!), so bring your good water/rock shoes! This is a great place to stay and explore if you love the wild. It's off the grid, so if you want to unplug from devices and do nothing but relax or play in the ocean and explore the forest, it's perfect. That said, there is cell reception should you need it and a solar charger if you need to charge your devices. Egmont offers a pub, a fancy restaurant, and a charming convenience store with wi-fi. We can take you in to town during your stay for an additional charge of 50$ per direction. We've secured exclusive moorage at a private dock in Egmont. This is where you will park. This private parking includes secure gated access, closer proximity to our accommodations, and stunning waterfront surroundings New Dock Location: 6156 Maple Road Gate Code: 7051 (if broken, just open and close by hand) Do not park at the government wharf in Egmont. Please arrive at the above address. Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have about the property. We hope to see you this summer! Dave

6. Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

100%

(16)

58km from Nanaimo · 2 sites · Lodging · Mayne Island Trust Area, BC

Available all year round! Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks.It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling - along with modern conveniences. It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family. The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach.Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home.Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town.We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!Learn more about this land:Available all year round! Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks. It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling - along with modern conveniences. It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family. The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach. Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home. Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town. We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!

7. Shirewoods Farm

100%

(13)

9km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Lodging · Nanaimo, BC

Welcome to Shirewoods Farm! Unwind from the hustle of city life with a refreshing escape to the countryside. Shirewoods Farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature, breathe deeply, and experience the rhythms of farm life firsthand. Our unique glamping stays let you relax in comfort, surrounded by fields, forests, and friendly farm vibes. Shirewoods is a working farm with goats, sheep, horses, pigs, ducks and chickens. Join us for a guided Farm Tour for a chance to meet the animals, and learn about our sustainability practices—including feeding livestock with rescued produce and brewery grain. For outdoor adventures, explore the 11 km of scenic trails next door in Hemer Provincial Park, or venture out to one of the 70+ hiking spots in the Nanaimo area. You’re also just minutes from WildPlay Nanaimo (zip lines, axe throwing, ropes courses) and the refreshing Nanaimo River swimming hole. Only 11 minutes drive to the Duke Point Ferry terminal. Come experience the charm of the farm, naturally.

8. Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%

(62)

54km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Duncan, BC

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. Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

89%

(119)

69km from Nanaimo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shawnigan Lake, BC

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!

10. Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

75km from Nanaimo · 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!

11. Flower Beds Farm

94%

(8)

55km from Nanaimo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC

Come enjoy a stay at our funky little farm near Qualicum Beach, BC. Enjoy full hook-ups and a durable blue chip gravel-capped pad with access to flushing toilets, hot showers, wifi and paid laundry. **NEW FOR 2024** Camping not your style? Stay out of the elements in our beautifully appointed tiny home or our large 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom vacation suite. Immerse yourself in a beautiful natural surrounding on our seasonal flower farm. Our sweet ducks and chickens provide eggs for purchase. Close highway access and minutes from Spider Lake Horne Lakes make day trips a breeze. Book now for a peaceful or adventurous vacation.

Camper favorites near Nanaimo

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Shirewoods Farm

100%

(13)

9km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Lodging · Nanaimo, BC

Welcome to Shirewoods Farm! Unwind from the hustle of city life with a refreshing escape to the countryside. Shirewoods Farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature, breathe deeply, and experience the rhythms of farm life firsthand. Our unique glamping stays let you relax in comfort, surrounded by fields, forests, and friendly farm vibes. Shirewoods is a working farm with goats, sheep, horses, pigs, ducks and chickens. Join us for a guided Farm Tour for a chance to meet the animals, and learn about our sustainability practices—including feeding livestock with rescued produce and brewery grain. For outdoor adventures, explore the 11 km of scenic trails next door in Hemer Provincial Park, or venture out to one of the 70+ hiking spots in the Nanaimo area. You’re also just minutes from WildPlay Nanaimo (zip lines, axe throwing, ropes courses) and the refreshing Nanaimo River swimming hole. Only 11 minutes drive to the Duke Point Ferry terminal. Come experience the charm of the farm, naturally.

Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%

(62)

54km from Nanaimo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Duncan, BC

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!

Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

89%

(119)

69km from Nanaimo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shawnigan Lake, BC

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!

Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

75km from Nanaimo · 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!

Flower Beds Farm

94%

(8)

55km from Nanaimo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC

Come enjoy a stay at our funky little farm near Qualicum Beach, BC. Enjoy full hook-ups and a durable blue chip gravel-capped pad with access to flushing toilets, hot showers, wifi and paid laundry. **NEW FOR 2024** Camping not your style? Stay out of the elements in our beautifully appointed tiny home or our large 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom vacation suite. Immerse yourself in a beautiful natural surrounding on our seasonal flower farm. Our sweet ducks and chickens provide eggs for purchase. Close highway access and minutes from Spider Lake Horne Lakes make day trips a breeze. Book now for a peaceful or adventurous vacation.

Stories from the community

T

Trace

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Great communication! Thank you. Hopefully stay there soon.

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!

M

Marley

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

What a perfect stay! Michele was a lovely host and the cabin was in such a beautiful, peaceful spot. I loved the vibe of the cabin, cosy with the option to make a fire (loved chopping wood), and lots of cosy dvds' and vhs's to watch on the couch. The cabin also had its own privacy (its far enough from the main house & has its own driveway) which was perfect for us. It's located in a super convenient spot too, probably the best part of the island to stay - right next to a few cute shops, coffee carts and a restaurant while still being tucked away in the woods. Also next to a lovely hike. Would highly recommend!!!

M

Mario

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

Jenna

October 2025

2 nights at Shirewoods Farm

Beautiful scenery, wonderful host. Very accommodating.

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.

J

Juliet

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Thank you Rejeanne - we had another wonderful peaceful stay on your property! What stood out for us was the quiet, the bird and frog calls, and waking up to the sunshine through the forest. Looking forward to our next visit :-)

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.

Brittany

September 2025

2 nights at Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

We had a lovely time at the sleep cabin. We definitely recommend bringing your own foldable cooking table if you plan on cooking your own meals outside as there isn’t much flat ground around the cabin to cook on. Peaceful, quiet, and tucked deep in the woods. Would definitely recommend and would love to visit again! Thank you for sharing your beautiful piece of land with us!

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.

S

Sandeep

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valinore Glamping

Great location; I loved it. Will go again. The communication from the host was clear and helpful.

S

Sherri

September 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Great experience in Salt Spring Island. Perfect spot to park the van for the night. Worked perfect with our early ferry departure from Long Harbour.

Anne

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

I loved my site ... the log bench was helpful for my bikepacking. The site was incredibly peaceful. Loo was closeby. Location worked perfectly for my hike n bike plans. Will definitely return.

Julia

September 2025

1 night at Valinore Glamping

Oh my god, what a lovely experience! As a LOTR nerd, I was delighted at the theme. :) The site was peaceful and quiet, the doggies were so friendly and welcoming, and every detail was thoughtfully designed. For me, this was capital G glamping. There was a very clean flushing toilet outhouse with all amenities you’d need, the shower was so amazing - think, steamy cedar, cool island air, fresh fluffy towels. The outdoor kitchen with organic coffee, spearmint tea, and yummy cookies in the morning was truly next level fancy shmancy. The tent was amazing: clean, cozy, and warm, beautifully designed in art nouveau fashion. We slept like logs! 100% worth it, and a great value! I sure hope to be back one day for longer!

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 !

G

Godwin

September 2025

3 nights at Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

This is a great place to relax and unwind. The hosts are very welcoming and hospitable. If you love nature, this is the place for you! It's also a great place for a romantic getaway!

K

Kristina

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Lovely mossy site surrounded by the sounds of the forest (owls, frogs). Very private.

a

aria

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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

R

Robyn

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Beautiful little clearing in the woods. Beside the road, but very minimal traffic. Outhouse is clean, fresh and well-maintained. I've stayed multiple times this summer and really enjoyed the location.

P

Paige

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

We had an amazing trip to Rejeanne’s, super quiet tent site and amazing for bikepacking. Great location in between Ganges and Long Harbour, I highly recommend!