Camping near Nelson with swimming

Surrounded by pristine parkland on the shores of Kootenay Lake, Nelson is a camper's paradise.

92% (86 reviews)
92% (86 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Nelson

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds near Nelson with swimming

98%
(60)

Valhalla Pines Campground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Vallican, BC
This is a quiet forested residential area in Sinixt territory. Recommended activities include floating down the river, canoeing the lake, hiking or climbing in Valhalla Park, soaking in Halfway Hot Springs or indulging in Nelson. We are surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers. This valley has many outdoor activities and events and a very interesting history and culture including Sinixt, Doukhobor, Cannabis and Conscientious Objector. Nelson, Castlegar and Slocan Lake are all a half hour drive away. There are many other special places nearby such as the Goddess Pools and the Emerald Pools. Supplies and services are available nearby including firewood, toiletries, dog day care, massage, bike and canoe rentals, life jackets, rubber dingys and paddles etc. Let us know if you would like a referral to any of these services. There are many guides available for activities in the area including (water sports, climbing, skiing, hiking, artist tours, events, geology, mining, mushrooms, cannabis, garden tours and native history). There is a particularly valued native storyteller here that can also provide a walking tour to a nearby village site with a full scale replica of an aboriginal kekuli (earth house). Please call ahead for recommendations on booking guides or storytellers. You don't need one to get here, but its good to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle for some of the logging roads that are worth visiting. Roof and/or bike racks can also come in handy. The Vallican Whole community center also has events nearby.
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CA$20
 / night
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(23)

For-rest Retreat

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents54 acres · 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.
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CA$28
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Saved 1 time

The Kootenay Cottage & RV site

2 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC
This fully furnished and fully equipped cottage is super cozy for a single person or couple. Always pet friendly! Additionally, we offer a fully serviced RV pad able to accommodate up to 40 ft trailer or coach. 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! One gig wifi. 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. Additionally, we offer a fully serviced RV pad able to accommodate up to 40 ft trailer or coach. We look forward to hosting you!
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CA$80
 / night
Saved 7 times

27 Vanguard Camper in Campsight

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Nelson, BC
Learn more about this land:Enjoy camping in our onsite Vanguard camper!You have a nice little private nook in our yard.Our property is located in Nelson, BC. Nelson is one of only a few small North American communities that offers a unique mix of cosmopolitan big-city amenities and authentic small-town charm. The surroundings are supernatural. The pace of life is laid back and forward-thinking.We are very close to amazing mountain bike trails that go all the way to the lake. It's a 5-minute drive to downtown or the lake.Grohman Narrows Provincial Park and Kokanee Creek Provincial Park are both within 30 minutes.Amenities include a toilet, potable water, picnic table, and wifi.Pets are welcome.
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CA$150
 / night

Sunflower cottage

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Castlegar, BC
We live in lovely Glade, BC. Situated below the mountain on 2.5 acres. We live 1km away from the boat launch, and dock/swimming area; 2km from the glade beach, Skattebo Reach Trail and Glade waterfall. We also have off-roading trails for off-roading sports in any season. Perfect for someone who wants to get away and enjoy nature. When coming onto the property, Please use the second driveway that leads to the back of the house and to the cottage. Enjoy a lovely queen size, simple kitchenette (microwave, Keurig, water cooler and mini fridge/freezer) and loads of board games to un-plug and enjoy.
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CA$100
 / night
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(3)

Private river getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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.
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CA$35
 / night
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(2)

Cedar Creek Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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
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CA$40
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Booked 1 time

Appledale Mountain Garden

2 sites · RVs, Tents63 acres · 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.
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CA$35
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Booked 2 times

Appledale Golfside Retreat

22 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Winlaw, BC
New Campground in the Kootenays. Nestled in the beautiful Slocan Valley, Appledale Golfside Retreat is the ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature. With easy access to the golf course directly from the campground, and a variety of activities to choose from, you are sure to find something that will fit your lifestyle. We invite you to explore our campground and take in all of the beauty that the Slocan Valley has to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax by tubing down the River, go for a round of Golf next door or take a leisurely stroll on the Rail to Trail, Appledale Golfside Retreat is the perfect destination for you. This secluded 5 acre property is located alongside the beautiful Slocan River and on the edge of Valley View Golf Course in Winlaw, BC. Currently with 8 RV sites and 6 Tent sites available, direct walking access to the Golf Course and restaurant, to the Rail to Trail and the River. Pitch your Tent at one of the waterfront sites or choose one close to the Golf Course. Dogs are allowed on leash, Wi-Fi, Fires are allowed in fire pits only, ( unless local fire ban is effect ) Toilets, No Power or Water Hook-ups for RV's but Water is available onsite(pumped from the River). Sites 1-6: RV's up to 50ft - $35/night Sites 9-14: Smaller Trailers under 35ft/Vans/Cars - $35/night Sites 15-20: Tenting - $20/night This campground is brand new and still under development, your patience is appreciated, any suggestions to improve our service is welcome. 10 minutes from Slocan Village 5 minutes from Winlaw and 35 minutes from either Nelson or Castlegar.
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CA$20
 / night

Fairway Camp at Queen's Bay Resort

1 site · RV1 acre · Balfour, BC
An RV lot at a beautiful new private RV Resort in Balfour, BC - in the middle of a golf course! Kootenay Lake at your doorstep! So many recreational opportunities and close to vibrant communities with many, many restaurants and services. This fully serviced lot is suitable for an RV up to 42'. Only available to RV's that are self contained (must have toilet on board) and RV must be no older than 10 years. Available May 1st to September 30th. Minimum one month rental.
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CA$27.60
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(1)

Babsy's Absolutely Magical Retreat

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC
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 for you to explore. I also have a small fishing boat and 16ft catamaran that I can take guests out on for a small fee. There are 2 locations that can be rented separately or booked together, however there are also a couple of sites to pitch a tent on. 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 and the beach from 10-8pm. The other rental a.k.a. The beach-house comes with an attached outdoor 1950's style kitchen, oudoor on demand shower, outhouse, firepits, lawnchairs, and free use of water vessels. Very, very cool. It is located steps from the water. Truly magical.
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CA$160
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(4)

Valhalla Mountains Getaway

1 site · Tent8 acres · Castlegar, BC
Enjoy the private seclusion of the woods as our 8-acre property backs to Crown land near the Valhalla Mountains. Only a 3-minute walk to the house and family farm. There is a bear cache for food storage, an outhouse and a clean water spigot. As well as 2 tent areas, a fire pit and a large kitchen area. Spend your days playing in the mountains, floating on the river, shopping at town markets, or just sleeping all day while enjoying the fresh air. We have two campsites available for tent or RV campers. If you're bringing an RV, we can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. The site is flat and electrical hookups are available. Amenities include potable water and wifi. Our property is close to Valhalla Provincial Park which is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in BC. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban.
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CA$25
 / night
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Camping near Nelson with swimming guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Canada near Nelson, British Columbia. With over 700 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your swimming needs. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot or a lively campground, we've got you covered. Check out our top campsites such as A Wee Place in the Woods (249 reviews), ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO (151 reviews), and Paradise on Mirror Lake (82 reviews) to see what other campers have to say. With popular facilities like campfires, potable water, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at off-roading (OHV), snow sports, or horseback riding. And with average prices per night starting at £35 and options as low as £15, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Nelson, British Columbia!

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