The best waterside campgrounds near Nelson, British Columbia

Nelson delivers waterside camping with over 140 options scattered along lakeshores, riverbends, and tucked-away creeks. Campsites here put you steps from swimming, fishing, and winding hiking trails. Expect average nightly rates around $40, with some spots dipping as low as $15. Book a stay at Mountain Refuge Ranch (115 reviews) for a back-to-basics riverside experience, or try Valhalla Pines Campground (75 reviews) if you like a friendly vibe and easy water access. For more seclusion, Private river getaway (14 reviews) lets you claim your own stretch of riverbank. Most sites welcome pets, allow campfires, and have showers on offer. Bring your rod, your hiking boots, and a towel—you’ll want to jump in.

97% (226)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson

1. 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).

Nelson delivers waterside camping with over 140 options scattered along lakeshores, riverbends, and tucked-away creeks. Campsites here put you steps from swimming, fishing, and winding hiking trails. Expect average nightly rates around $40, with some spots dipping as low as $15. Book a stay at Mountain Refuge Ranch (115 reviews) for a back-to-basics riverside experience, or try Valhalla Pines Campground (75 reviews) if you like a friendly vibe and easy water access. For more seclusion, Private river getaway (14 reviews) lets you claim your own stretch of riverbank. Most sites welcome pets, allow campfires, and have showers on offer. Bring your rod, your hiking boots, and a towel—you’ll want to jump in.

97% (226)

Top-rated campgrounds near Nelson

1. 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).

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Alexander

July 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

Very awesome, everything about this property was perfect

J

Jenny

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

Beautiful location! The Geodome was a neat experience! Ryan provided us with everything we needed and was very helpful making sure we had a great stay! Communications with Ryan were easy and he quickly answered any questions we had. The property is very large and had everything, from the netted gazebo, fire pit area, outdoor shower, and the nicest, cleanest, most amazing view outhouse!

C

Colton

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

Had an absolutely incredible weekend with my brother and our friends. The geodome was so cool, and the prospectors cabin was awesome! The wood stove kept us cozy while it rained. Disc golf, giant beer pong, corn hole, axe throwing, all great fun. Ryan was an excellent host and we are already planning our next trip!

Candice

April 2025

2 nights at Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp

Awesome location located so close to Creston. The Dome was beautiful and such a cool experience! Comfy, classy, clean, and equipped with everything you might need! Ryan was a great host and very helpful! The group camping spot overall is super awesome! Very private and felt safe!