The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Nelson, British Columbia

Looking to camp in an RV near Nelson, British Columbia and enjoy a river nearby? Hipcamp offers over 850 campsites matching your preferences, with options as low as $15 per night. Popular campsites such as ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO (151 reviews), Paradise on Mirror Lake (82 reviews), and Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping (58 reviews) are available. Enjoy popular amenities such as campfires, toilets, and potable water, as well as activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Book your perfect RV spot now!

96% (162)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp in an RV near Nelson, British Columbia and enjoy a river nearby? Hipcamp offers over 850 campsites matching your preferences, with options as low as $15 per night. Popular campsites such as ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO (151 reviews), Paradise on Mirror Lake (82 reviews), and Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping (58 reviews) are available. Enjoy popular amenities such as campfires, toilets, and potable water, as well as activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Book your perfect RV spot now!

96% (162)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 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.

2. 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

3. Pristine Off Grid Paradise

100%

(2)

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!

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. Bear Road Retreat

100%

(4)

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.

6. Caribou Creek Market Gardens

100%

(4)

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.

7. Perfect Puppy Ranch

100%

(2)

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

8. Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

100%

(1)

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 🔥

9. Appledale Mountain Garden

100%

(1)

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.

Camper favorites near Nelson

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Makinaak Crossing

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

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

Bear Road Retreat

100%

(4)

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.

Caribou Creek Market Gardens

100%

(4)

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

100%

(2)

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

Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

100%

(1)

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

100%

(1)

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.

Stories from the community

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.

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!

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.

K

Krysta

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

1 night at Private river getaway

Neat spot with a tree house. Robert gave us clear directions that were easy to follow, even with us arriving after dark. Thanks Robert!

N

Nicole

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

Great site, easy directions to follow. River was a short walk but very nice

M

Meghan

August 2025

15 ft campervan

3 nights at Private river getaway

Perfectly secluded. Easy trek to the water. We spent the entire day in the river and had a cozy night back under the treetops.

A

Arnoldo

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

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.

L

Leanne

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

Very private and lovely camping spot. Great tent platform, cool tree house and just a short walk from the river. Very clean composting toilet.

David

July 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bear Road Retreat

I had a short stay at Bear Rd camp. Todd reviewed a few things to enjoy in the area, including kayaking on a nearby lake and some of the views to see, and local off-grid areas, including an abandoned mine in the area. He is a wonderful person as he explained the edible berries and reviewed his local community with me. He was attentive to your needs.

S

Scott

July 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Private river getaway

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 :).

A

Aaron

July 2025

22 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Bear Road Retreat

The space Todd set up for Bear Flats is fantastic. He was an exceptional host, showing us around the property, pointing out berry bushes we could pick, and he laid out a campfire with wood. (Unfortunately it rained) it’s an excellent secluded and quiet space, but very close to the lake for kayaking. I’ll definitely come back again next summer!

Jessie

July 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Bear Road Retreat

Second time staying here and it’s even better than the first! Todd our host is super sweet and goes out of his way to make our stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. He’s also very knowledgeable about the local area and can recommend sights and places to go. There was a fire pit stocked with wood and adirondack chairs surrounding it. There’s a lake not far where you can kayak and overall the property is beautiful and so quite. Definitely recommend and we’ll be back next year hopefully for a longer stay and will look forward to using the outdoor shower currently under construction!

E

Emily

July 2025

10 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Private river getaway

Robert’s place was pretty and peaceful. He was a good communicator and it was easy to get to. I recommend staying here.

M

Maria

July 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Private river getaway

Beautiful views and very peaceful! The tree house was fun and the kids loved it. Heads up that there isn’t really a level spot for the tent but otherwise it’s perfect.

C

Chantelle

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

Tenting at Robert’s farm was very peaceful and cozy! Private access to a beautiful river was amazing and the site was very clean and beautiful.