RV Camping Near Nelson, BC, CA: 12 Best RV Parks 2025

Situated in the mountainous eastern part of British Columbia, Nelson makes a great base for visiting the trails, waterways, and hot springs of the Kootenay Rockies by RV. If you like the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy, from hiking up the nearby Pulpit Rock Trail to paddling on Kootenay Lake, located right in town. RV camping and dump stations are available at public spots in and around town, including the Kaslo Municipal Campground, the City of Nelson Campground, and Kokanee Creek Provincial Park. There are also plenty of quiet, private Hipcamps in the vicinity, many of which have only one or two sites, plus picnic tables, hot showers, and firepits. Some are set on or near Kootenay Lake, and there are loads of options in the Slocan Valley, some right by the Slocan River.

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Top RV parks

Situated in the mountainous eastern part of British Columbia, Nelson makes a great base for visiting the trails, waterways, and hot springs of the Kootenay Rockies by RV. If you like the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy, from hiking up the nearby Pulpit Rock Trail to paddling on Kootenay Lake, located right in town. RV camping and dump stations are available at public spots in and around town, including the Kaslo Municipal Campground, the City of Nelson Campground, and Kokanee Creek Provincial Park. There are also plenty of quiet, private Hipcamps in the vicinity, many of which have only one or two sites, plus picnic tables, hot showers, and firepits. Some are set on or near Kootenay Lake, and there are loads of options in the Slocan Valley, some right by the Slocan River.

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Top RV parks

1. For-rest Retreat

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30km from Nelson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salmo, BC

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.

2. Blacktail Ridge

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

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.

3. Private river getaway

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(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.

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. Soul's Paradise Resort

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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!

6. The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

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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)

7. Cedar Creek Farm

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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

8. Pristine Off Grid Paradise

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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!

9. McCormack Farm

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

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.

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

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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.

11. Bear Road Retreat

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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.

12. Blackberry Hill

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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

13. Perfect Puppy Ranch

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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

14. Caribou Creek Market Gardens

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(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.

15. Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

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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 🔥

16. Appledale Mountain Garden

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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.

17. Echoes Of The Valley Manor

79km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Creston, BC

Echoes of the Valley Manor is a peaceful getaway in the heart of Creston’s beautiful vineyard valley. Surrounded by farmland and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Start your day with the calm sounds of the countryside, have coffee, and watch the sunset over the valley. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore the area, property is just right for your stay. Moreover, with a two minute drive from the border, there is unlimited potential for exploring.

Camper favorites near Nelson

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

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.

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.

Echoes Of The Valley Manor

79km from Nelson · 1 site · Tent, RV · Creston, BC

Echoes of the Valley Manor is a peaceful getaway in the heart of Creston’s beautiful vineyard valley. Surrounded by farmland and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Start your day with the calm sounds of the countryside, have coffee, and watch the sunset over the valley. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore the area, property is just right for your stay. Moreover, with a two minute drive from the border, there is unlimited potential for exploring.

Stories from the community

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

r

rob

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Group trip

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

The lot is perfect if you are visiting the area and just need a relatively quiet and private place to camp. Barbara is a great host and super accomodating and cummunicative. It is literally right next door to the hot springs resort. Highly recommend.

L

Liz

August 2025

26 ft Class C

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

We had an awesome relaxing weekend at the watershed. Kait and J were great hosts and their boys provided top notch firewood deliveries. We really enjoyed the beach and floating around in the water. Pro tip: Bring your Crocs or Watershoes

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.

L

Leo

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blacktail Ridge

We loved camping at this spot, one of the best camp trips we've ever had. Great, friendly hospitality from Dean and Debbie and everything you would need for a great camping experience, including chopped firewood, wifi and drinking water right by the site. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets as well, and a lovely lounge area for cooking/washing dishes/hanging out, we will definitely return again when possible!

J

Jackie

August 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

Hookups and clean washrooms . The site had too many big boulders in the way. Tricky getting out.

G

Glen

August 2025

12 ft campervan

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

Great stay here. Nice and close to the hot springs and the hookups were greatly appreciated. Would stay here again and Barbara was great with any questions I had. Thanks!

T

Teagan

August 2025

Tent

1 night at For-rest Retreat

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.