The best camping near Nelson

63km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Wynndel, BC

(20)

Set on 55 acres of rolling hillside in the community known as Wynndel B.C., Blacktail Ridge is a quick 15 min N of Creston and only 20 min S of Kuskanook Harbour. Our large campsites provide plenty of space and privacy. There are only 6 sites available as the Deer, Elk, wild Turkey were here first! When you arrive, we will meet you on the driveway and take you through our property and up to your campsite. You will be able to enjoy the hillsides trails and the views they provide. We also have a camp kitchen available for your use that boasts stunning views of the valley. Our shower house is a single unit that will not disappoint. Good water pressure and plenty of hot water. We are a small Mom and Pop business still building campsites. And as they are completed, we will add them here for a you Hipcampers to see! Feel free to reach out with any questions.

4. Makinaak Crossing

41km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Crawford Bay, BC

Private secluded camp sites nestled in the cedar forest along Crawford Creek.

5. Best West Kootenay Tiny House

52km from Nelson · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Salmo, BC

(13)

YOUR CEDAR SANCTUARY AWAITS Escape to your own private retreat - a beautifully crafted off-grid tiny house where digital detox meets rustic comfort. Nestled among towering cedars and hemlock, this is where busy minds find peace and adventure-seekers find their basecamp. THE LAKE EXPERIENCE Just a peaceful 2.5km walk (or quick drive) to Rosebud Lake - a pristine, spring-fed gem that's refreshingly warm and perfect for swimming. This motor-free lake is home to hundreds of friendly turtles and giant dragonflies that keep the mosquitos at bay. Bring your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for the ultimate serenity. There is one community boat launch for the lake which naturally is a popular spot. It's understood by the locals to Salmo that this is a shared and friendly access point. ADVENTURE CENTRAL Your tiny house sits at the heart of incredible year-round recreation: • Summer: Hiking, fishing, canoeing, jet boating on three major rivers (Pend Oreille, Columbia, Kootenay) • Winter: Backcountry and downhill skiing, snowmobiling • Always: Peaceful lake moments and forest walks LOCATION PERKS: Central to Salmo, Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson, with easy access from Spokane and Creston. The charming Rosebud Mercantile is just a gentle walk away for local eggs, local author books, and simple refreshments. YOUR COZY RETREAT This new-construction tiny house features: • Warmth: Classic Dickenson Marine propane heater (perfect for two) • Comfort: Twin futon plus extra single mattress for larger parties • Outdoor kitchen: Propane BBQ and two-burner stove • Privacy: Completely secluded among the trees • Essentials: Well water provided, traditional outdoor facilities What to bring: Your own bedding, flashlight, hand towels and towels for swimming, your favourite camp cooking essentials (i.e. some basics are in play) cooler & ice, and a sense of adventure! This is authentic off-grid living with thoughtful comfort touches. Hot showers available by request ($5 propane, cash) - or take that refreshing lake dip! BONUS: GAZEBO SITE AVAILABLE For larger groups, check out our gazebo site with perfect sunrise and sunset views. AND COMING SOON: Bicycles!! I just have to fix them up :) Ready to unplug and recharge? Your cedar sanctuary is waiting.

6. Private river getaway

94%

(31)

31km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Salmo, BC

Once this property was a cattle ranch but now it's a private spot nestled right next to the Salmo river.Learn more about this land:Private camping spot and small tree fort down by the Salmo River. We have room for a 35ft camper, you will be parking on grass but the site requires levelling.We are located in Salmo, BC which is 30 minutes south of Nelson, BC. Nelson is surrounded by the rugged Selkirk Mountains and sits on the shores of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. Whether gliding through the incredible powder at Whitewater Ski Resort, rafting down class 4 rapids on the Salmo River, catching a twenty-five-pound rainbow trout on Kootenay Lake, hiking up to Kokanee Glacier, or watching the fabulous live performances at The Capitol Theatre, the area has attractions for everyone.Only a 5-minute drive to the local grocery store.Access to the mountains from the old railroad system directly off of the property by motorcycles and/or side by sides, you just need to go slow until you clear the houses.Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome.We look forward to hosting you.

7. Soul's Paradise Resort

96%

(13)

36km from Nelson · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kootenay Bay, BC

Soul's Paradise is a beautiful campground in Kootenay Bay with 20 beach sites (open 6 months/year) 13 upper sites (year-around) and 2 Chalets. Family and gentle pet friendly. We offer long-term RV and tiny-home sites for 6+ months. We welcome you to be a part of our community or enjoy a scenic vacation! We have kayaks, canoes, pedal boards to rent in the summer, fresh eggs, and garden produce. Relax and breathe!

8. Cedar Creek Farm

79%

(7)

24km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Winlaw, BC

Best described as Heaven on Earth. Whatever outdoor adventure you enjoy, this will be an ideal home base. The mountains and waters of the Kootenays are legendary. This is also a source of legendary BC Bud. This farm has been cultivating medical cannabis since 2008 and in 2020 we received our recreational cannabis licence. Wholistic health and wellness are the values that motivate our work

9. Woodsy, Artsy Nature Retreat

3.1km from Nelson · 3 sites · Lodging · Nelson, BC

(7)

Escape to Morningstar Log Cabin and Bunkieland, where three distinctive glamping accommodations await, each offering a unique experience of nature's embrace. Perfect for family reunions, intimate weddings, or a memorable friends' getaway, our cabins provide spectacular, panoramic views of emerald-green Kootenay Lake and the charming city of Nelson from the peaceful forest's edge, all just 5 minutes from the vibrant city core. Immerse yourself in the landscape and wildlife with bird watching, hiking, and biking trails right at your doorstep. Nearby, indulge in kayaking, skiing, fishing, and countless other adventures that the renowned mountain ranges and 200 km of pristine lakeshore offer throughout four distinct seasons. Delight in the region's bounty with local produce-driven dining, explore craft breweries, all reflecting our area's commitment to organic farming and sustainable living. Our cabins, each thoughtfully appointed with a comfortable queen bed and a convenient double pull-out, are uniquely furnished with handcrafted pieces from local artisans, creating a cozy and rustic retreat. Morning Star Log Cabin welcomes guests year-round, while Bunkieland offers its seasonal charm from May to October, providing a true glamping experience. Enjoy the tranquility of a remote escape while remaining conveniently close to civilization. Whether you're a timid nature lover or an adventurous spirit, you'll discover endless activities and relaxation, easily filling a fulfilling week's stay. Let the beauty of the Kootenays rejuvenate your soul at Morning Star Log Cabin and Bunkieland. Plus, bring your furry friends along to enjoy the adventure too! We're pet-friendly and understand that your dogs are part of the family. Explore the trails together, let them splash in the lake, and enjoy evenings by the fire. Our location is ideal for those seeking an active getaway with their canine companions, making your stay even more special.

10. Pristine Off Grid Paradise

53km from Nelson · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · BC

A stunning 320 acre off grid Ranch in the beautiful West Kootenay's near the Nelway Border Crossing. Our plan for the land is to be able to provide sanctuary, rest, education and empowerment to like minded individuals. With the stresses of modern day society we feel it is so important to be able to get away for mental health breaks, to reconnect with your inner longings for rest, community, nutrition & a true connection to nature. With no cell phone service, limited wifi, surrounded by nature we feel this is the place where you can go to "free your mind and feed your soul." With Air b n' b and Hipcamp rentals coming summer of 2024 you will be able to immerse yourself deeply in nature. The land boasts a stunning array of wildlife, bird watching, our farm animals, hiking, forest bathing, walking trails, wild flower picking and with being off grid and no lights you will not believe the epic star gazing! Nestled in the forest by the lake your accommodations are comfortable, restful and offer stunning views of the lake and all the animals that come to visit it. This is a true off grid working farm. Book a guided tour of our regenerative farm and meet all the animals!

11. McCormack Farm

69km from Nelson · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Burton, BC

(5)

Nestled in the hills above the Columbia River and Arrows Lakes our guests can experience the serenity of the Kootenays on our family's Century Farm. Join us as we journey down the path of regenerative agro-forestry and silvopasture. Immerse yourself in our unique and vibrant farm with our small herd of cattle, flock of heritage breed poultry, and our extensive berry and fruit u-pick. Located 2 minutes from the beach, access to 3 major drainages for all kinds of outdoor adventure. 30 minutes to Nakusp and its fabled hotsprings.

12. The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

97%

(15)

25km from Nelson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Nelson, BC

Nestled on Kootenay Lake in Balfour BC, The Watershed Campground is located 20 minutes from the adventurous city of Nelson and 30 minutes to the quaint village of Kaslo. We welcome all types of campers with a mix of full hook up sites and traditional dry camping sites. Max trailer size is 25ft. Onsite flush toilets are available for campers. Guests have access to the beach for all of the water activities including, but not limited to: swimming fishing boating (nearby rentals) floating SUP (bring your own) kayak/canoe (bring your own)

13. Bear Road Retreat

51km from Nelson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · BC

Area of open grass, orchard and wooded hills on a property centrally located to all types of sports and activities. 2 km from US border. Multi sport non motorized lake 2 kms away. Multi sport river/reservoir for boating and fishing, beach activity 8km away. Kilometres of hiking and biking trails nearby.

14. Blackberry Hill

92%

(6)

68km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Creston, BC

Enjoy privacy in the woods amongst the cedar trees, birches, and red pines. We have currently two available sites for RV campers. We can accommodate vehicles up to 29ft in length and the site requires small leveling. The trailers need to be prepared for off grid. Super quiet forest with lots of hikes and kayaking nearby. There are many orchards with fruit trees and vegetables just a 10-minute drive from the property. Two large red sequoias 2 minutes drive. Beautiful Kootenay lake is about 20 km north. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, and pets are welcome. There will be firewood waiting for you. (No need to buy) The property is located in Creston Valley, BC. Creston Valley is situated just 10 kilometres north of the U.S. border and at the south end of Kootenay Lake, nestled between the majestic Selkirk & Purcell Mountains. The valley is a unique fertile agricultural region and home to many beautiful fruit orchards and wineries

15. Caribou Creek Market Gardens

70km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nakusp, BC

Private & secluded camping site with lots of sun and nature all around. See and listen to the year-round creek. Lake and boat launch very close with great fishing (Dolly Varden, Rainbow, Burton, and Kokanee Salmon). The camping site itself is approx .5 acre. Only one spot available is perfect for you want privacy. Must be fully self-contained. RV or tent. RV can be huge. Pop-outs no problem. Your dogs are fine. issue. Mine will leave you in peace.

16. Perfect Puppy Ranch

50km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Silverton, BC

Slocan Lake and Valhalla Provincial Park is visible from the property. This is an off grid Homestead. Humble living working towards sustainability. We provide fresh potable water for drinking and washing We have three golden retrievers on the property in 45 chickens

17. Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

90%

(10)

39km from Nelson · 1 site · RV · Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC

Lot located on beautiful Kootenay Lake, just steps from the renowned Ainsworth Hot Springs mineral pools. Directly across from beach, 5 minutes to boat launch, pub and restaurant. Enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs, swim in the pristine Kootenay Lake, take in the spectacular view of the towering Selkirk Mountains. Experience authentic Indigenous cuisine in the Ktunaxa Restaurant located at the Ainsworth Hot Springs resort. * Beside historic J.B. Fletcher Store - museum/artisan gallery * 5 min. to Cody Caves - ancient limestone caverns * 15 min. to Balfour Golf Course * 20 min. to Kokanee Park and Glacier - hiking, zipline, playground * 30 min. to beautiful city of Nelson - RVs, 5th wheels, camper vans, tent trailers (self-contained only, 5 min. to sani-dump) - creek water - 50 amp. with 30 amp adaper, wifi - shelter for boat, ATV, bikes, etc. (boat in photo to be removed) Daily, weekly or ask about long term stay. $50/day. See Ainsworth Hot Springs website for information and pool hours: https://www.ainsworthhotsprings.com/ See map in photos for exact location.

18. Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

34km from Nelson · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Fruitvale, BC

We are located just off Highway 3B, 7 kms west of Salmo. Turn right onto Meadows Road. The Hip Camping entrance is the third driveway on the right hand side. Simply follow the road and the signs to the road with trees on either side that will take you right into your little oasis. Discover nature in BC's Salmo Valley mountains. Escape to tranquility, surrounded by wildlife, crickets, frogs, birds, sheep and cows. Relax, unwind,and enjoy a beautiful view. Welcome to your nature retreat, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring mountains in the heart of the picturesque Salmo Valley, BC. This location is a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty, where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature. Here, you'll be serenaded by the melodies of crickets, frogs, geese, crows, eagles, hawks, and even the calls of cows and sheep. This is a wildlife corridor, inviting creatures like wild turkeys and bears to share in the wonder of this true nature experience. Relax, unwind, and disconnect from the noise of the world while still enjoying the convenience of cell service to stay connected as needed. Our space offers some privacy and a rare, breathtaking view of the heart of the West Kootenays – an experience that's as beautiful as it is romantic. Feel free to explore the property by hiking its private trails or take a moment to sit on the bridge overlooking the serene beaver ponds and wetlands. You'll even find apple trees, Saskatoon berries, and fiddlehead ferns seasonally for you to enjoy! Just remember to be bear-aware while you're out and about. We welcome your propane fire pits as well as BBQS onsite. This is the perfect solution for those who love campfires but appreciate the care for this pristine area during dry seasons. Small, well behaved dogs and cats are welcome here but must remain on leash at all times as we do have sheep with babies onsite as well as a guardian dog that accompanies & protects them from wildlife in their fenced area. You are responsible for dumping your own trailer at a Sani-Dump as well as keeping your garbage contained within your RV to ensure safety from wildlife. Fireworks 💥 are not permitted due to the risk of potential forest fires 🔥

19. Appledale Mountain Garden

25km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Nelson, BC

Nestled in the mountain side of the picturesque Slocan Valley we are situated on 63 acres of forest with glacier fed creeks feeding into the Slocan river in the valley bottom. A variety of accommodations are available including tenting, cabana or tipi. The land has a shared summer kitchen, wood fired sauna as well as hiking trails. 15 minute walk/bike to the river and rail trail. Wifi, Firewood & Bike Rental available for extra fee. No pets. No parties. 420 friendly. families welcome. We have chickens and dogs. 10 minutes to Slocan Lake, grocery, cell service, gas, recreational activities. 45 minutes to Nelson.

20. Cedar Forest Glamping

20km from Nelson · 2 sites · Lodging · Castlegar, BC

Looking for something a little different? Our Lotus Belle Tent offers a 'glamping' experience, tucked amidst a cedar forest on 5 acres of private land, situated under Sentinel Mountain. Located 15-min from Castlegar and 24-min from Nelson, there is great access to a variety of outdoor adventures, fabulous dining spots and connecting with nature. The Lotus tent is suited for a solo traveller, a couple, or two friends who don't mind getting cozy together. We cannot accommodate pets or children. The Outback Lotus Belle is a 16ft canvas tent with 200 square feet of standing space. The tent is incredibly water resistant and the zippable screen windows and doors allow for great ventilation on the hotter days, while keeping the bugs out. You'll be pleasantly surprised with the cozy comforts provided inside the tent to make your stay comfortable. You'll have access to your own parking space within a close distance to the tent. There is a bathhouse just a short walk from the tent, where you'll find a composting toilet, handbasin, off grid hot water shower and potable water tap for your private use. An outdoor covered picnic table, fire pit and lounge chairs are also available for your use.

Camper favorites near Nelson

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Bear Road Retreat

51km from Nelson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · BC

Area of open grass, orchard and wooded hills on a property centrally located to all types of sports and activities. 2 km from US border. Multi sport non motorized lake 2 kms away. Multi sport river/reservoir for boating and fishing, beach activity 8km away. Kilometres of hiking and biking trails nearby.

Blackberry Hill

92%

(6)

68km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Creston, BC

Enjoy privacy in the woods amongst the cedar trees, birches, and red pines. We have currently two available sites for RV campers. We can accommodate vehicles up to 29ft in length and the site requires small leveling. The trailers need to be prepared for off grid. Super quiet forest with lots of hikes and kayaking nearby. There are many orchards with fruit trees and vegetables just a 10-minute drive from the property. Two large red sequoias 2 minutes drive. Beautiful Kootenay lake is about 20 km north. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, and pets are welcome. There will be firewood waiting for you. (No need to buy) The property is located in Creston Valley, BC. Creston Valley is situated just 10 kilometres north of the U.S. border and at the south end of Kootenay Lake, nestled between the majestic Selkirk & Purcell Mountains. The valley is a unique fertile agricultural region and home to many beautiful fruit orchards and wineries

Caribou Creek Market Gardens

70km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nakusp, BC

Private & secluded camping site with lots of sun and nature all around. See and listen to the year-round creek. Lake and boat launch very close with great fishing (Dolly Varden, Rainbow, Burton, and Kokanee Salmon). The camping site itself is approx .5 acre. Only one spot available is perfect for you want privacy. Must be fully self-contained. RV or tent. RV can be huge. Pop-outs no problem. Your dogs are fine. issue. Mine will leave you in peace.

Perfect Puppy Ranch

50km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Silverton, BC

Slocan Lake and Valhalla Provincial Park is visible from the property. This is an off grid Homestead. Humble living working towards sustainability. We provide fresh potable water for drinking and washing We have three golden retrievers on the property in 45 chickens

Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

90%

(10)

39km from Nelson · 1 site · RV · Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC

Lot located on beautiful Kootenay Lake, just steps from the renowned Ainsworth Hot Springs mineral pools. Directly across from beach, 5 minutes to boat launch, pub and restaurant. Enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs, swim in the pristine Kootenay Lake, take in the spectacular view of the towering Selkirk Mountains. Experience authentic Indigenous cuisine in the Ktunaxa Restaurant located at the Ainsworth Hot Springs resort. * Beside historic J.B. Fletcher Store - museum/artisan gallery * 5 min. to Cody Caves - ancient limestone caverns * 15 min. to Balfour Golf Course * 20 min. to Kokanee Park and Glacier - hiking, zipline, playground * 30 min. to beautiful city of Nelson - RVs, 5th wheels, camper vans, tent trailers (self-contained only, 5 min. to sani-dump) - creek water - 50 amp. with 30 amp adaper, wifi - shelter for boat, ATV, bikes, etc. (boat in photo to be removed) Daily, weekly or ask about long term stay. $50/day. See Ainsworth Hot Springs website for information and pool hours: https://www.ainsworthhotsprings.com/ See map in photos for exact location.

Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

34km from Nelson · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Fruitvale, BC

We are located just off Highway 3B, 7 kms west of Salmo. Turn right onto Meadows Road. The Hip Camping entrance is the third driveway on the right hand side. Simply follow the road and the signs to the road with trees on either side that will take you right into your little oasis. Discover nature in BC's Salmo Valley mountains. Escape to tranquility, surrounded by wildlife, crickets, frogs, birds, sheep and cows. Relax, unwind,and enjoy a beautiful view. Welcome to your nature retreat, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring mountains in the heart of the picturesque Salmo Valley, BC. This location is a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty, where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature. Here, you'll be serenaded by the melodies of crickets, frogs, geese, crows, eagles, hawks, and even the calls of cows and sheep. This is a wildlife corridor, inviting creatures like wild turkeys and bears to share in the wonder of this true nature experience. Relax, unwind, and disconnect from the noise of the world while still enjoying the convenience of cell service to stay connected as needed. Our space offers some privacy and a rare, breathtaking view of the heart of the West Kootenays – an experience that's as beautiful as it is romantic. Feel free to explore the property by hiking its private trails or take a moment to sit on the bridge overlooking the serene beaver ponds and wetlands. You'll even find apple trees, Saskatoon berries, and fiddlehead ferns seasonally for you to enjoy! Just remember to be bear-aware while you're out and about. We welcome your propane fire pits as well as BBQS onsite. This is the perfect solution for those who love campfires but appreciate the care for this pristine area during dry seasons. Small, well behaved dogs and cats are welcome here but must remain on leash at all times as we do have sheep with babies onsite as well as a guardian dog that accompanies & protects them from wildlife in their fenced area. You are responsible for dumping your own trailer at a Sani-Dump as well as keeping your garbage contained within your RV to ensure safety from wildlife. Fireworks 💥 are not permitted due to the risk of potential forest fires 🔥

Appledale Mountain Garden

25km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Nelson, BC

Nestled in the mountain side of the picturesque Slocan Valley we are situated on 63 acres of forest with glacier fed creeks feeding into the Slocan river in the valley bottom. A variety of accommodations are available including tenting, cabana or tipi. The land has a shared summer kitchen, wood fired sauna as well as hiking trails. 15 minute walk/bike to the river and rail trail. Wifi, Firewood & Bike Rental available for extra fee. No pets. No parties. 420 friendly. families welcome. We have chickens and dogs. 10 minutes to Slocan Lake, grocery, cell service, gas, recreational activities. 45 minutes to Nelson.

Cedar Forest Glamping

20km from Nelson · 2 sites · Lodging · Castlegar, BC

Looking for something a little different? Our Lotus Belle Tent offers a 'glamping' experience, tucked amidst a cedar forest on 5 acres of private land, situated under Sentinel Mountain. Located 15-min from Castlegar and 24-min from Nelson, there is great access to a variety of outdoor adventures, fabulous dining spots and connecting with nature. The Lotus tent is suited for a solo traveller, a couple, or two friends who don't mind getting cozy together. We cannot accommodate pets or children. The Outback Lotus Belle is a 16ft canvas tent with 200 square feet of standing space. The tent is incredibly water resistant and the zippable screen windows and doors allow for great ventilation on the hotter days, while keeping the bugs out. You'll be pleasantly surprised with the cozy comforts provided inside the tent to make your stay comfortable. You'll have access to your own parking space within a close distance to the tent. There is a bathhouse just a short walk from the tent, where you'll find a composting toilet, handbasin, off grid hot water shower and potable water tap for your private use. An outdoor covered picnic table, fire pit and lounge chairs are also available for your use.

Stories from the community

J

Josh

1 week ago

With pets

2 nights at The Fairy House

Super lovely cozy little cabin! We loved our stay here! The hot tub is something else, worth the price of admission itself, and our dog loved the room for adventure. We’ll definitely be back!

m

melody

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Best West Kootenay Tiny House

We had a great time! Phil was a great host and we’ll definitely be coming back again! Loved the old boat heater in the house, did well at keeping us warm! Definitely recommend to anybody looking for a place to stay out in the kootenays!

Verna

October 2025

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

Very continent spot to park, stayed 2 nights. Enjoyed the hot springs and the spa, took a drive to the cute village of Kaslo.

A

Ashley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Fairy House

We had a wonderful thanksgiving weekend at the fairy house. The weather wasn’t the greatest but we prepared for it. My boy Reggie had the best time being a dog, roaming and living his best life. This place has everything you need! Thank you so much for the hospitality, everything was perfect!

A

Alianna

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at The Fairy House

Do you want to get off grid but are too lazy to pack all the things necessary to do so? Look no further! The Fairy House has everything you need to cook delicious meals (plates, forks, cooking utensils, pots, bbq grill with side burner), stay warm (hot tub, instant hot water shower, and wood stove in the house), explore outdoors with your dog companion/s (lots of land with cool mushrooms growing everywhere). We booked The Fairy House last minute and were so stoked to find it fitting our every need: time to disconnect, stars, forest walks, and hot tub time. We have been to Salmo before and love the area. Went to Nelson, hiked near Ainsworth and then sat in the hot springs. Kootenay Lake is always beautiful too, and grabbed some delicious food in Nelson on our last night. I don’t want to miss the absolute beauty of the craftsmanship that is this little house, bathhouse, and outhouse. Seriously, bravo! Thank you for sharing it with others and we hope to come back again.

S

S'eye

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Fairy House

Wow! What an incredible experience, you can really feel the pure energy and love that went into creating this place. This was exactly the whimsical getaway that we were looking for! I it was so nice being able to have our dog roam the properly off leash, and the cedar hottub and outdoor shower was absolutely amazing! We can't wait to come back in the winter and experience the beauty and cozy vibes again. 😊

D

Diana

September 2025

24 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Caribou Creek Market Gardens

We had a wonderful few days at Monica's campsite. The directions were great and easy to follow. Which helped tremendously since it was already dark when we got there. The site was peaceful and relaxing. We really enjoyed falling asleep listening to the nearby creek. The flattened clearing was a nice change. Much cleaner area to camp at than gravel/sand. Our trailer was too big to drive through the trees (27 ft plus the truck) so we turned around and backed into the site. That worked. Lol. Great location. Very scenic. Even the town of Nukusp was beautiful to visit and just a short drive away. And the Nakusp Hot Springs were a welcome treat. Monica was a fantastic hostess. Really nice lady. Provided us with some lovely daytrip ideas in the area, like a nearby waterfall. Would definitely recommend.

Lots of space to sit outside and enjoy nature.

Christin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Woodsy, Artsy Nature Retreat

We had such a lovely time! To be honest, we were positively surprised by how nice the cabin was! We had everything we needed and more! The bed was comfy, the kitchen well equipped, everything was very clean and tidy. We enjoyed our dinner on the deck and imagined what the view would be like, if it hadn't been so smoky :D Maria is a great host! Her communication before and during our stay was fantastic and when we met her before we checked out, she gave us a tour of the property and showed us the other cabins, which are all super nice! We would love to come back!

When there's no fire ban, this is the perfect place to gather around a fire in the evenings!

Christin

September 2025

1 night at The Fairy House

When you drive in and see the bath house and then the cabin, it really feels like you’ve arrived at a Fairy House! ✨ You’re surrounded by beautiful forest, and the fairy lights strung around create such a magical vibe. Even though it was a hot day, the cabin stayed super cool inside, which felt amazing. Everything was sparkling clean, and the towels were soft and smelled wonderful :D We had a lovely, peaceful time at the cabin. It is so quiet there, and you also have a lot of privacy. The next morning we went to Rosebud Lake for a refreshing swim, and on the way out we stopped at the cute little store and visited the goats across the street. Thanks for the lovely getaway! We would definitely come back!

Christin

September 2025

1 night at Best West Kootenay Tiny House

Phil's tiny house is a super cute spot and we really enjoyed our time there. He is a super friendly, easy-going host and welcomed us in person when we arrived. He gave us a tour of the property and showed us everything we needed to know about the cabin, like how the solar power systems works and how to turn on the lights. I really enjoyed chatting with Phil and hearing about how he developed his land. The tiny house is rustic but we had everything we needed. It's set in a beautiful forest and at sunset, the sun shines through the trees which had a very magical vibe ✨ It is suuuper quiet there, both at Phil's property and also at Rosebud Lake which we explored the next morning thanks to Phil's kind offer to let us use his canoe which he even drove to the lake for us and picked it up 2 hours later. If you're looking for peace and quiet, this is the right place for you!

E

Eric

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

We enjoyed staying on Kait's land. They were very accommodating and we're able to upgrade us to a site where we could park next to our camp. Beach and dock were great! Enjoyed swimming and hanging out on the dock.

M

Mike

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

Site 4 was awesome, as was Kait and her family. Loved the location and being able to go down to the dock and enjoy the peaceful mornings by the water!

K

Kelly

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Fairy House

We enjoyed the hand crafted unique cabin in the woods. Our dogs loved to explore the property and had lots of space to run around. The wood operated hot tub was a unique bonus with lots of wood available and a new experience that I would highly recommend. The quiet and off the grid property was very relaxing and would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys nature and a little getaway!

P

Paula

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Soul's Paradise Resort

We really liked the place, quiet, friendly, the view is beautiful, we enjoyed the camping stay with family and friends. Thank you 💯 x 💯 recommended.

Starr

September 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

We had such an amazing stay on Robert’s property! Exactly as described - private, lots of trees and a short walk to the river. We enjoyed the beach areas and swimming with the dog in the nearby swimming hole. You can tell the owners take pride in the place as everything is very well maintained and marked off. We would definitely return and recommend to others!

S

Sophie

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to McCormack Farm

Very nice host and lovely camping spot, would stay there again.

A

Antoine

August 2025

Tent

With kids

8 nights at Soul's Paradise Resort

From Calgary, Alberta, we stayed a week, and seemed to be like few days, incredible spot, incredible owners, incredible week! This is such a great camping site and I am almost reluctant of saying too much here as I don’t want this place to be crowded for the next times :) I cannot recommend more enough this camping, family oriented or nature lover or both, this is where you have to be.

j

janai

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

29 nights at Cedar Creek Farm

Gary is a wonderful host and we'd be happy to stay again anytime!!

L

Lawrence

August 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Private river getaway

The campsite was excellent, kids loved the treehouse. the beach area by the river was vey nice, you can tell the owners have put alot of work into it. Felt very private and secluded in the trees. Having a water tap right in camp was also extremely convenient.

Diane

August 2025

19 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Soul's Paradise Resort

Lovely location right near the Kootenay Bay ferry. Would love to return in the future.

Top camping destinations

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Kootenay Lake Provincial Park

177 campgrounds

Kootenay National Park

141 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

The Kootenay Cottage, Pet Friendly

21km from Nelson · 2 sites · Lodging · Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC

This fully furnished and fully equipped cottage is super cozy for a single person or couple. Always pet friendly and no pet or cleaning fee! The cottage offers a memory/gel queen bed with 100% cotton sheets, down pillows, down comforter and 100% cotton towels. The space includes a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, microwave, toaster, blender, Keurig, French press, plates, glasses, silverware, stainless steel pots and pans. Just bring your groceries and pet food! Wifi, 1 1/2 gig. The cottage is next to the West Arm Provincial Park, hiking and biking trails are all pet-friendly! A short walk to Kootenay Lake and a 5-minute drive to the beach (pet friendly). The cottage is close to Balfour, Nelson, Ainsworth Hot Springs, Kokanee Creek Provincial Park and spawning channels, Old Growth Forest and the Kokanee Glacier. 2024-weekly only, Saturday to Saturday. Please contact to confirm availability. 2025-weekly only, Friday to Friday, May through September 2025 We look forward to hosting you!

Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp