95% (90) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson
For-rest Retreat
1. For-rest Retreat
99%
(43)
30km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We bought this property in 2008 as raw land with an old off-grid 1950's cabin on it. While the log structure was sound, the cabin needed some major renovations to be liveable. We undertook renovations, lived in it for 6 months and then moved into a yurt on a more accessible section of our property. We now run the cabin as a short term rental, have another small rental next to our house and we are using the yurt for gatherings, retreats and yoga classes!
For more info, visit our website: https://for-rest.ca
Learn more about this land:
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR!
A backcountry-style off-grid cabin in a perfect location to explore the Kootenays.
THIS CABIN IS ACCESSED BY A 0.7 KM HIKING TRAIL ON PRIVATE PROPERTY.
Enjoy privacy and be close to nature at the base of Keystone Mountain. Far enough to feel like you are away from it all, close enough to experience all the Kootenays have to offer.
Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We have firewood available to purchase - please add this as an extra at the time of booking.
Close to world-class ski hills and backcountry skiing, excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities and even private trails right out your door.
Enormous snowy peaks, clear lakes, and waterfalls characterize this mountain playground in southeastern British Columbia, where visitors can expect backcountry adventures, endless singletrack mountain bike trails, hiking trails, mineral hot springs, and small towns with vibrant arts and culture scenes.
Our property is located just outside of Salmo, in the Hub of the Kootenays. 30 minutes from Nelson, Castlegar, Trail, Kootenay Pass, and Champion Lakes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$28
/ night
Private river getaway
2. Private river getaway
94%
(31)
31km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
CA$35
/ night
Cedar Creek Farm
3. Cedar Creek Farm
79%
(7)
24km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$40
/ night
Creekside Glamping
4. Creekside Glamping
24km from Nelson · 2 sites · Lodging
A cozy creekside retreat in the Slocan Valley. There are two 16' Bell tents which are bookable individually or separate. They are nestled in a private wooded area next to the creek where you can fall asleep to the sound of the burbling water. There is a full bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and bath. A kitchen shack with propane BBQ and fully equipped with hot running water. There is a free woodstore and firepit for your evening relaxation to roast your smores.
We are a 10 minute walk from 2 restaurants, gas station, organic grocery store and hardware store. Not to mention the Rail trail that follows the river for 25km in each direction. Plenty of opportunity for walks, bike rides and runs. We are 15 minutes from Slocan lake and Valhalla Provincial Park which offers stunning hiking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and just relaxing on the beach.
The Slocan river boasts lots of secret bathing spots for the adventurous explorer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$85
/ night
The Fairy House
5. The Fairy House
94%
(9)
52km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
130 acres of lush kootenay cedar hemlock forest. A beautiful little spring fed creek flows through the property for about a kilometer which flows year round. The creek is fed by numerous small springs and streams coming out of the hillside on the property and up the mountainside. The forest is very diverse featuring many of the species found in bc as well as wildlife. Enjoy walking several kilometers of roads and paths on this private land. You will also enjoy the complete privacy and peacefulness to be found here. A few minutes up the road is rosebud lake, a hidden gem filled with turtles and other wildlife. Make sure you bring your paddle board or kayak to enjoy this special place. Salmo river and the stunning Pend Oreille reservoir also quite close.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$140
/ night
Perfect Puppy Ranch
6. Perfect Puppy Ranch
100%
(2)
50km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$15
/ night
Retreat Yourself!
7. Retreat Yourself!
100%
(11)
37km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
I bought this magical property 13 years ago and I have developed it from beach to mountain with the idea of sharing it with epic humans since day 1.
It is 1 acre of pure natural and artistic bliss. The natural wonders include a massive beach with space for many, a gigantic sling shot, sweet fire pits, comfortable lawn chairs, paddle boards, kayaks, a cedar strip canoe, and many other toys free for you to explore. Please note that the Beach house guests have priority of the Gazebo but there are many spots/tables and parasols set up to enjoy all other spots on the beach.
My property has 2 rentals on it, the other is right on the beach called "Sweet beach house-edge of the water", in case you wanted to book both locations. There are also a couple of sites for extra guests to pitch a tent on for a fee.
Its like jurassic park here...very tropical and chill. The artful camper boasts of an outdoor spa and deck, BBQ, mini fridge, fantastic lake and mountain views and access to the beach from 9am-8pm. The other rental a.k.a. The beach-house comes with an attached outdoor 1950's style kitchen, oudoor on demand shower, outhouse, fire pits, lawn chairs, and free use of water vessels. It is located steps from the water. Truly magical.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$140
/ night
Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
8. Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
100%
(4)
66km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
Unique Mountain Retreat in Creston Valley’s Community Forest
For those seeking a unique touch, our geodesic dome provides comfortable, three-season glamping with awe-inspiring valley views.
Escape to our expansive 22-acre property that borders the serene, public-use land of Arrow and Goat Mountain, offering direct access to miles of rugged mountain paths and logging roads. Experience Creston Valley from a secluded clearing at the heart of nature—a private & peaceful spot with a furnished geodesic dome and plenty of room for additional trailers and tents.
Property Highlights:
• Exclusive Reservations: Privacy is guaranteed—only one group is booked at a time, so you’ll have the entire place to yourselves.
• Disc Golf and Exploration: Try out our private 9+ hole disc golf course or set out on endless trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Convenient Access to Creston & Nearby Lakes: Just a 15-minute drive to downtown Creston, Duck Lake, Kootenay Lake, Goat River, Summit Creek, Corn Creek Falls, and Kootenay River.
• Scenic Amenities: The outhouse comes with an unparalleled view, and you’ll also have access to a BBQ and a generator (available upon request).
Whether you’re here for comfort camping, glamping, or the ultimate rustic retreat, this property offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
A fun private 9+ hole disc golf course is built into the area you will be staying.
Note that to ensure the best experience possible, reservations are made to only one group at a time. If you want to feel like you are truly alone in the woods, this is the spot for you!
Note that this property is designed for a "glamping"/camping experience. The geodesic dome is not heated. While a small propane heater and warm bed are provided, please come prepared for the weather.
High-clearance AWD vehicle recommended if you plan to drive down the old road to the location, otherwise please plan to park up top (we can help shuttle down your stuff).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$120
/ night
95% (90) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson
For-rest Retreat
1. For-rest Retreat
99%
(43)
30km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We bought this property in 2008 as raw land with an old off-grid 1950's cabin on it. While the log structure was sound, the cabin needed some major renovations to be liveable. We undertook renovations, lived in it for 6 months and then moved into a yurt on a more accessible section of our property. We now run the cabin as a short term rental, have another small rental next to our house and we are using the yurt for gatherings, retreats and yoga classes!
For more info, visit our website: https://for-rest.ca
Learn more about this land:
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR!
A backcountry-style off-grid cabin in a perfect location to explore the Kootenays.
THIS CABIN IS ACCESSED BY A 0.7 KM HIKING TRAIL ON PRIVATE PROPERTY.
Enjoy privacy and be close to nature at the base of Keystone Mountain. Far enough to feel like you are away from it all, close enough to experience all the Kootenays have to offer.
Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We have firewood available to purchase - please add this as an extra at the time of booking.
Close to world-class ski hills and backcountry skiing, excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities and even private trails right out your door.
Enormous snowy peaks, clear lakes, and waterfalls characterize this mountain playground in southeastern British Columbia, where visitors can expect backcountry adventures, endless singletrack mountain bike trails, hiking trails, mineral hot springs, and small towns with vibrant arts and culture scenes.
Our property is located just outside of Salmo, in the Hub of the Kootenays. 30 minutes from Nelson, Castlegar, Trail, Kootenay Pass, and Champion Lakes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$28
/ night
Private river getaway
2. Private river getaway
94%
(31)
31km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
CA$35
/ night
Cedar Creek Farm
3. Cedar Creek Farm
79%
(7)
24km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$40
/ night
Creekside Glamping
4. Creekside Glamping
24km from Nelson · 2 sites · Lodging
A cozy creekside retreat in the Slocan Valley. There are two 16' Bell tents which are bookable individually or separate. They are nestled in a private wooded area next to the creek where you can fall asleep to the sound of the burbling water. There is a full bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and bath. A kitchen shack with propane BBQ and fully equipped with hot running water. There is a free woodstore and firepit for your evening relaxation to roast your smores.
We are a 10 minute walk from 2 restaurants, gas station, organic grocery store and hardware store. Not to mention the Rail trail that follows the river for 25km in each direction. Plenty of opportunity for walks, bike rides and runs. We are 15 minutes from Slocan lake and Valhalla Provincial Park which offers stunning hiking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and just relaxing on the beach.
The Slocan river boasts lots of secret bathing spots for the adventurous explorer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$85
/ night
The Fairy House
5. The Fairy House
94%
(9)
52km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
130 acres of lush kootenay cedar hemlock forest. A beautiful little spring fed creek flows through the property for about a kilometer which flows year round. The creek is fed by numerous small springs and streams coming out of the hillside on the property and up the mountainside. The forest is very diverse featuring many of the species found in bc as well as wildlife. Enjoy walking several kilometers of roads and paths on this private land. You will also enjoy the complete privacy and peacefulness to be found here. A few minutes up the road is rosebud lake, a hidden gem filled with turtles and other wildlife. Make sure you bring your paddle board or kayak to enjoy this special place. Salmo river and the stunning Pend Oreille reservoir also quite close.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$140
/ night
Perfect Puppy Ranch
6. Perfect Puppy Ranch
100%
(2)
50km from Nelson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$15
/ night
Retreat Yourself!
7. Retreat Yourself!
100%
(11)
37km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
I bought this magical property 13 years ago and I have developed it from beach to mountain with the idea of sharing it with epic humans since day 1.
It is 1 acre of pure natural and artistic bliss. The natural wonders include a massive beach with space for many, a gigantic sling shot, sweet fire pits, comfortable lawn chairs, paddle boards, kayaks, a cedar strip canoe, and many other toys free for you to explore. Please note that the Beach house guests have priority of the Gazebo but there are many spots/tables and parasols set up to enjoy all other spots on the beach.
My property has 2 rentals on it, the other is right on the beach called "Sweet beach house-edge of the water", in case you wanted to book both locations. There are also a couple of sites for extra guests to pitch a tent on for a fee.
Its like jurassic park here...very tropical and chill. The artful camper boasts of an outdoor spa and deck, BBQ, mini fridge, fantastic lake and mountain views and access to the beach from 9am-8pm. The other rental a.k.a. The beach-house comes with an attached outdoor 1950's style kitchen, oudoor on demand shower, outhouse, fire pits, lawn chairs, and free use of water vessels. It is located steps from the water. Truly magical.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$140
/ night
Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
8. Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
100%
(4)
66km from Nelson · 1 site · Lodging
Unique Mountain Retreat in Creston Valley’s Community Forest
For those seeking a unique touch, our geodesic dome provides comfortable, three-season glamping with awe-inspiring valley views.
Escape to our expansive 22-acre property that borders the serene, public-use land of Arrow and Goat Mountain, offering direct access to miles of rugged mountain paths and logging roads. Experience Creston Valley from a secluded clearing at the heart of nature—a private & peaceful spot with a furnished geodesic dome and plenty of room for additional trailers and tents.
Property Highlights:
• Exclusive Reservations: Privacy is guaranteed—only one group is booked at a time, so you’ll have the entire place to yourselves.
• Disc Golf and Exploration: Try out our private 9+ hole disc golf course or set out on endless trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Convenient Access to Creston & Nearby Lakes: Just a 15-minute drive to downtown Creston, Duck Lake, Kootenay Lake, Goat River, Summit Creek, Corn Creek Falls, and Kootenay River.
• Scenic Amenities: The outhouse comes with an unparalleled view, and you’ll also have access to a BBQ and a generator (available upon request).
Whether you’re here for comfort camping, glamping, or the ultimate rustic retreat, this property offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
A fun private 9+ hole disc golf course is built into the area you will be staying.
Note that to ensure the best experience possible, reservations are made to only one group at a time. If you want to feel like you are truly alone in the woods, this is the spot for you!
Note that this property is designed for a "glamping"/camping experience. The geodesic dome is not heated. While a small propane heater and warm bed are provided, please come prepared for the weather.
High-clearance AWD vehicle recommended if you plan to drive down the old road to the location, otherwise please plan to park up top (we can help shuttle down your stuff).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$120
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Josh
November 2025
With pets
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!
See more
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!
See more
A
Alianna
October 2025
With pets
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.
See more
S
S'eye
September 2025
With pets
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. 😊
See more
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!
See more
K
Kelly
September 2025
With pets
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!
See more
Starr
September 2025
24 ft Class C
With pets
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!
See more
j
janai
August 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Gary is a wonderful host and we'd be happy to stay again anytime!!
See more
L
Lawrence
August 2025
12 ft travel trailer
With kids
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.
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K
Krysta
August 2025
17 ft travel trailer
Neat spot with a tree house. Robert gave us clear directions that were easy to follow, even with us arriving after dark. Thanks Robert!
See moreC
Christina
August 2025
Weekend Trip to The Fairy House
Christoph's Fairy Cabin was a quiet sanctuary away from the city. The ambiance was nice and peaceful, and very private. There is a lake about a 5-minute drive down the road, which has clean and clear water and was perfect for paddleboarding. The stars at night are breathtaking and all in all it was a perfect weekend getaway.
See moreN
Nicole
August 2025
16 ft car
Great site, easy directions to follow. River was a short walk but very nice
See more
M
Meghan
August 2025
15 ft campervan
Perfectly secluded. Easy trek to the water. We spent the entire day in the river and had a cozy night back under the treetops.
See more
Giovanni
August 2025
4 nights at For-rest Retreat
The cabin was awesome, very secluded and quiet, is a nice touch having all the cooking gear already there for you, the woodburning fireplace was great for keeping warm at night,
Would recommend packing light for the light hike to get there. Would highly recommended for anyone looking to get away from a few days
See moreA
Amanda
August 2025
With pets
The cabin was adorable and so clean. Had everything we needed. Nice and quiet, felt private but was close enough to town if we needed anything. The hot tub was wonderful and loved having it covered in the rain. I can imagine this place would be so nice in the winter with snow! Host was really responsive, friendly, and easy to communicate with as well. Would stay here again!
See more
T
Teagan
August 2025
Tent
Was very easy to get to and was nice and spacious, could definitely fit multiple people. Had a cute little picnic table, an umbrella, and a fire pit along with a bit of firewood. As someone pretty disgusted with outhouses theirs was nice and clean. The dense trees and bushes added some decent privacy but the ground was nice and flat coming from someone who tented.
The sound of the highway right beside was a bit noisy at times and the site is a bit close to the house (Johanna’s) but that’s the only cons I can think of
Generally very good stay, Johanna was very polite and welcoming and it was a good site.
See moreA
Arnoldo
August 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Lovely secluded spot, perfectly located near Salmo. We loved the privacy, the pad were we could set up our stuff, and the well maintained outhouse. We would definitely recommend.
See moreL
Leanne
August 2025
Tent
Very private and lovely camping spot. Great tent platform, cool tree house and just a short walk from the river. Very clean composting toilet.
See moreS
Scott
July 2025
Tent
With pets
Stayed two nights. There was a new large tent pad that I was able to squeeze a large (6 person) tent on without issue. It's a quiet/ private spot a short walk from the river, which is nice to walk along. My dog loved it, hope to come back :).
See moreK
Kiera
July 2025
Tent
Picturesque, spacious and private. Perfect camping experience.
See more
The best pets off leash camping near Nelson guide
Where to go
Ainsworth
With only 50 residents, this is one tiny town. But Ainsworth overflows with visitors thanks to its year-round hot pools. Ainsworth Hot Spring Resort features a large lounging pool, a stream-fed plunge pool, and a natural 46-meter horseshoe cave where 42°C mineral water streams down its walls. For those wanting to do a deeper (cave) dive, a bit further north is Cody Caves Provincial Park, where you can tour incredible limestone caves.
Castlegar
Castlegar sits equidistant from two of the world’s best ski resorts, Whitewater Resort and Red Mountain, which get an average annual snowfall of 12 meters. But it’s not just winter sports that thrive out here—summer sports have their time in the sun, too. A 3-acre bike park sits in the heart of the town, as does access to the Trans-Canada Trail system via the C&W Rail Trail, an abandoned railway bed.
Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park
In Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, get up close and personal with not one but two glaciers, Kokanee and Woodbury. With the park’s elevation sitting mostly above 1,800 meters, hikers, campers, climbers, and skiers can use 85 kilometers of well-marked trails to access emerald-coloured lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and snow-capped mountains year-round. Since access to the park is via old mining and forestry roads, and weather patterns can change quickly, always check conditions before heading up.
When to go
Thanks to its humid continental climate, Nelson gets four distinct seasons: cold and snowy winters, milder wet springs, hot, dry summers, and cool, wet autumns. Going in May, June or September means you’ll avoid the sometimes-overwhelming heat of the high-summer months but still enjoy warm days on the trail or out on the water. For the best snow-based recreation, head there in March and April for warmer days that still provide lots of accumulated snow.
Know before you go
- Nelson sits at the junction of Provincial Highway 3A and Highway 6, and is an 8-hour drive from Vancouver or Calgary, and a 4-hour drive from Kelowna.
- It’s remote out here, but West Kootenay Regional Airport is near Castlegar. Bad weather hits this airport often, so stay on top of flight updates.
- While this artsy town has managed to keep chain stores out of the downtown core, there are plenty of shops to stock up on outdoor gear and food supplies (try the Kootenay Co-op, Canada’s oldest food cooperative), as well as artisan boutiques and art galleries.
Nearby attractions
Nestled along the Arrow Lake shores, McDonald Creek Provincial Park offers a splendid camping experience. If you love serene lakeside campfires, exploring lush forest trails, or just unwinding near the water, camping at McDonald Creek is a joy-filled adventure.