The best campgrounds near Parksville, British Columbia with horseback riding

For a campers’ getaway to the beach on Vancouver Island’s eastern shore, Parksville, British Columbia, Canada, is popular with families. Broad, sandy Parksville Beach seems to stretch for miles, while Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park has hiking trails along the ocean and through the forest, plus a 275-site campground a short walk from the beach. Other Parksville camping options include riverside, lakeside, and oceanfront campgrounds and RV parks, most with full or partial hook-ups, washrooms, hot showers, and wi-fi. Parksville isn’t the most secluded place for campers, but all the services you need are nearby, and the beaches are undeniably beautiful.

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Top-rated campgrounds

For a campers’ getaway to the beach on Vancouver Island’s eastern shore, Parksville, British Columbia, Canada, is popular with families. Broad, sandy Parksville Beach seems to stretch for miles, while Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park has hiking trails along the ocean and through the forest, plus a 275-site campground a short walk from the beach. Other Parksville camping options include riverside, lakeside, and oceanfront campgrounds and RV parks, most with full or partial hook-ups, washrooms, hot showers, and wi-fi. Parksville isn’t the most secluded place for campers, but all the services you need are nearby, and the beaches are undeniably beautiful.

97% (452)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Moon Gate Farms

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(132)

50km from Parksville · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

We are currently undergoing renovations and will be closed until finished. Moon Gate Farms offers an unique glamping and camping experience in Roberts Creek, BC. Please note we have strict quiet times from 9pm to 8am. The property is just a 10-minute drive from beaches, restaurants, and hiking trails. Moon Gate farms is an ideal getaway for a nature experience and perfect for mountain walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, or couples looking to escape into the wilderness. Communal outdoor kitchen with camp stove, prep tables, toaster, microwave, are provided. Hot outdoor showers and flushing toilets. Friendly canine campers are also invited. We have two resident Bernese mountain x black retriever dogs who love to bark when campers arrive! They are friendly and settle quickly when told to sit and chill. The best way to get directions is to use Google Maps and follow directions to Moon Gate Farms in Roberts Creek. We are pinned on the map on East Wilson Forest Service Rd.

2. Strongwater Camping and Cabins

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(29)

55km from Parksville · 10 sites · Lodging · Egmont, BC

A magical experience awaits you on the majestic Sunshine Coast of British Columbia near the Village of Egmont. Nestle into our modern rustic cabins or set up camp beneath the towering evergreens. We, your hosts, and our yard-full of farm friends live just up the hill, but we sneak out often to welcome our guests. Strongwater Camping and Cabins offers bookings year-round. Choose from our 8 rustic cabins or 8 large campsites to accommodate your next relaxing get-away or refreshing retreat. Bookings are usually a 2-night minimum. 1-night may be available at the discretion of the Hosts. New to our accommodations are the SkookumBus and a Glamping Tent (summer only)! Our hand-built cabins provide a simply magical experience, with warm, comfy beds and bedside table, a fan for summer or a heater for winter. Nearly every cabin features a small table and chairs and a mini-fridge plus an outdoor fire pit and a picnic table. The cabins’ decks are surrounded by forest. Firewood is available for $30/wheelbarrow on site when available (unless we have a fire ban.) All campsites include the fire pit and picnic table. Everyone has easy access to the spa-like washrooms with coin-operated hot showers and flush toilets. Children 8 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult in the Wash house. There’s a dish washing station in the center of the Wash House where you can refill your water jugs and bottles or wash dishes. Please do not use for washing hair or laundry or tooth brushing. We ask that you conserve water and keep the Wash House clean. If a peaceful experience is what you seek, enjoy the restful, soothing atmosphere of the forest. Learn to really appreciate the simple things in life. Take in the mountain, ocean, and lake scenery. Fishing, canoeing, or just lying on a beach. Sitting on the deck of your cozy cabin, reading a book or soaking in the magic. If you are a thrill-seeker, then adventure awaits on the turbulent waters of Skookumchuk Narrows, the rapids for which our magical place is named. Skookumchuk is an old Chinook word meaning Strong Waters. There’s a timetable for you to consult to catch the tides at the best times. Follow the link below. Hit some rigorous trails on your mountain bike, hike through forests, up mountains, or at oceanside. Take a wild ride to untouched wilderness with our neighbouring Adventure Boat Tours.

3. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

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7.8km from Parksville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

Learn more about this land: Wild Coast has 2 nightly campsites for you to enjoy. Site one is a large, flat open gravel base. And Site 2 is a large, flat grass based site. Please note you must have your own trailer or tent. We’re a 5-10 minute drive to Rathtrevor beach/Parksville, Englishman River. We are right in the middle of an extensive trail network perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding. Both sites have plenty of space for RVs and trailers - we can accommodate vehicles up to 45ft in length. 30 amp Electrical and potable water hookups are available on both sites. WI-FI onsite as well. There is a flush toilet and sink available in our farm store that is available for guest use. No shower yet, but we are working on it! The property is private yet close to all amenities. Local favorite Rocking Horse Pub is a quick walk next door and a must-stop for dinner and drinks! Centrally located on Vancouver Island, it’s a perfect spot to set up the rig and day trip out to Rathtrevor, Little Qualicum, Parksville, Coombs, Port Alberni valley and Nanaimo, or go for an overnighter in Victoria, Tofino, Mount Washington and the Comox Valley. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban and we have dry firewood for sale onsite. If you would like firewood send us a message before you arrive. Pets are welcome, but please be responsible for them. There is a large open grass field for you to let them run and burn off that energy. PLEASE NOTE that this is a campsite and the trailers in the photos are not for rent.

4. Sunshine Coast Green Zone

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56km from Parksville · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gibsons, BC

This property was purchased nearly half a century ago. For the majority of this time the forest section you will be camping in was left undeveloped, apart from a few mountain bike trails. Recently, as a family, we have seen a large increase in the people traveling to the Sunshine Coast to escape the city limits. Unable to rock up to a campsite and pick our spot like we used to, it was easy to see a growing demand. We have taken everything we love about camping and done our best to give you a sense of what life on the Coast is really about. Please note: By entering onto the property you release all liabilities towards us as hosts. You are choosing to camp in a forested area that contains many hazards as well as potential threats. These include but are not limited to; Wild life (bears, bob cats, cougars etc), Fire is a serious threat to this region during summer months strict no smoking policy is in effect. Care should be taken walking around uneven surfaces. All campers are required to stay within camp boundaries fail to follow these protocols will result in being asked to leave. Please respect this piece of land as much as we do. ~Hope you enjoy your time on the Sunshine Coast

5. weed canary farm

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(53)

66km from Parksville · 1 site · Tent, RV · Courtenay, BC

6.6 acre property that is a small farm, still lots of trees, a small seasonal creek in the back, a duck pond with a boat to paddle around with or just float around. we raise layer hens so there are fresh free range eggs available. we also raise pork and broiler chickens periodically throughout the year. there is easy access to logging road for mountain biking or hiking. this property is a small piece of wilderness yet only 4km to town. The camp sites surround the pond and there is a choice of lots of sun and light or shaded under the trees. The sites can be used by R.V or tent. there is an outhouse onsite for your convenience.

6. Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

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(23)

6.2km from Parksville · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

The owner of this property has passed away. Any existing bookings will be honored, but no future bookings will be accepted. A description of the property is below: Six open sites-each private, possible power, house water(your own cables and some hose extensions), vehicles with trailers up to 35 ft maximum as 90 degree right turn past horse stable required immediately - bucolic 9 acres cleared with mature trees for shade, equestrian zone, loping ring, rare wood chip covered path and corral entrance to creek to THE GLEN. One night stay is fine, day visits to THE GLEN welcomed....entry to garage bathroom room, gate next to tool shed through garage personnel door at right of #3 bay garage. Bathroom on left side Bay # 1. Bring your flash light at night. 600 yard path through forest to running stream "the "Path" to "Whinny The Poo's "THE GLEN".....John Howard Society Members admitted free with Children wishing to view THE GLEN. .....excellent biking , forest bike trails, one site with power site for large Motor Home, exterior bathroom facility. NO HOT TUB Learn more about this land: Bicycling "Old Growth" forest trails, walking path to flowing all seasons creek with respite sitting, paved road walks around large properties, Eagles, Plenty of foraging deer Deer, ( Lynx, Cougars), Many Rabbits, Canada Geese, Trumpeter Swans, numerous bird species, Turkey vultures No effluent connection, WiFi is good, iPhone service is ok , Longleat House is free range camping , dispersed camping sites with three designated sites. Only Site #1 and #3 may reach for power and water connection, washroom in garage for all guests. Is no hot tub for hipcampers . Closest Sani-Dump is located at RATHTREVOR Provincial Park just 3 Km . Day visits to "THE GLEN" Ok.. No minimum number of nites. Registered overnight visitors welcome to explore Foot Path to "THE GLEN" OLD GROWTH FOREST. MAXIMUM 35 FT Length tow trailer as 90 degree right turn next to horse corral required to enter camping zones, registration of all persons is mandatory at front door of home.

7. Dashwood Meadows

98%

(238)

18km from Parksville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC

Welcome to Dashwood Meadows! We are located in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. This is a hobby farm with sheep, mini goats, donkey, dog and cat. We grow berries, plums, cherries, nuts and wildflowers. Child-friendly and family friendly environment. You can walk the labyrinth of forest trails nearby. There is a beach 9 km from the farm. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, provincial parks, caves, golf courses, children's playgrounds and country markets, all within less than an hour's drive. In Qualicum Beach, you will find amazing sandy beaches, picture-perfect views, world-class biking and hiking trails, salt-tinged ocean air, and the small town charm of our communities. Seeing goats on a roof, exploring underground caves, strolling endless beaches at low tide, and walking among ancient old-growth forests are just some of the experiences you’ll be able to tell your friends about back home.

Camper favorites near Parksville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sunshine Coast Green Zone

98%

(64)

56km from Parksville · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gibsons, BC

This property was purchased nearly half a century ago. For the majority of this time the forest section you will be camping in was left undeveloped, apart from a few mountain bike trails. Recently, as a family, we have seen a large increase in the people traveling to the Sunshine Coast to escape the city limits. Unable to rock up to a campsite and pick our spot like we used to, it was easy to see a growing demand. We have taken everything we love about camping and done our best to give you a sense of what life on the Coast is really about. Please note: By entering onto the property you release all liabilities towards us as hosts. You are choosing to camp in a forested area that contains many hazards as well as potential threats. These include but are not limited to; Wild life (bears, bob cats, cougars etc), Fire is a serious threat to this region during summer months strict no smoking policy is in effect. Care should be taken walking around uneven surfaces. All campers are required to stay within camp boundaries fail to follow these protocols will result in being asked to leave. Please respect this piece of land as much as we do. ~Hope you enjoy your time on the Sunshine Coast

weed canary farm

100%

(53)

66km from Parksville · 1 site · Tent, RV · Courtenay, BC

6.6 acre property that is a small farm, still lots of trees, a small seasonal creek in the back, a duck pond with a boat to paddle around with or just float around. we raise layer hens so there are fresh free range eggs available. we also raise pork and broiler chickens periodically throughout the year. there is easy access to logging road for mountain biking or hiking. this property is a small piece of wilderness yet only 4km to town. The camp sites surround the pond and there is a choice of lots of sun and light or shaded under the trees. The sites can be used by R.V or tent. there is an outhouse onsite for your convenience.

Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

6.2km from Parksville · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · Nanoose Bay, BC

The owner of this property has passed away. Any existing bookings will be honored, but no future bookings will be accepted. A description of the property is below: Six open sites-each private, possible power, house water(your own cables and some hose extensions), vehicles with trailers up to 35 ft maximum as 90 degree right turn past horse stable required immediately - bucolic 9 acres cleared with mature trees for shade, equestrian zone, loping ring, rare wood chip covered path and corral entrance to creek to THE GLEN. One night stay is fine, day visits to THE GLEN welcomed....entry to garage bathroom room, gate next to tool shed through garage personnel door at right of #3 bay garage. Bathroom on left side Bay # 1. Bring your flash light at night. 600 yard path through forest to running stream "the "Path" to "Whinny The Poo's "THE GLEN".....John Howard Society Members admitted free with Children wishing to view THE GLEN. .....excellent biking , forest bike trails, one site with power site for large Motor Home, exterior bathroom facility. NO HOT TUB Learn more about this land: Bicycling "Old Growth" forest trails, walking path to flowing all seasons creek with respite sitting, paved road walks around large properties, Eagles, Plenty of foraging deer Deer, ( Lynx, Cougars), Many Rabbits, Canada Geese, Trumpeter Swans, numerous bird species, Turkey vultures No effluent connection, WiFi is good, iPhone service is ok , Longleat House is free range camping , dispersed camping sites with three designated sites. Only Site #1 and #3 may reach for power and water connection, washroom in garage for all guests. Is no hot tub for hipcampers . Closest Sani-Dump is located at RATHTREVOR Provincial Park just 3 Km . Day visits to "THE GLEN" Ok.. No minimum number of nites. Registered overnight visitors welcome to explore Foot Path to "THE GLEN" OLD GROWTH FOREST. MAXIMUM 35 FT Length tow trailer as 90 degree right turn next to horse corral required to enter camping zones, registration of all persons is mandatory at front door of home.

Dashwood Meadows

98%

(238)

18km from Parksville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Qualicum Beach, BC

Welcome to Dashwood Meadows! We are located in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. This is a hobby farm with sheep, mini goats, donkey, dog and cat. We grow berries, plums, cherries, nuts and wildflowers. Child-friendly and family friendly environment. You can walk the labyrinth of forest trails nearby. There is a beach 9 km from the farm. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, provincial parks, caves, golf courses, children's playgrounds and country markets, all within less than an hour's drive. In Qualicum Beach, you will find amazing sandy beaches, picture-perfect views, world-class biking and hiking trails, salt-tinged ocean air, and the small town charm of our communities. Seeing goats on a roof, exploring underground caves, strolling endless beaches at low tide, and walking among ancient old-growth forests are just some of the experiences you’ll be able to tell your friends about back home.

Stories from the community

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

We had terrible weather the night we stayed and the owners were super hospitable. They let us use the shop front to keep dry and warm which was greatly appreciated.

M

Mario

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

Very serene! Perfect for a quiet weekend. Will return!

H

Hannah

October 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Great stay! Had everything I needed and was a great stop from the ferry to Tofino

S

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Strongwater Camping and Cabins

We had the best experience at strongwater cabins. The cabins are cozy and picturesque, with all the essentials. An electric kettle and mini fridge made our experience so much better, since we were able to store our food and enjoy hot drinks on the chilly autumn nights. The cabin comes with an electric fireplace that kept us perfectly toasty as well. Hot showers and clean bathrooms and area to wash our dishes was so convenient! Cheyenne has put her heart into the property and it shows. The hosts are super accommodating! We even got to use their canoe and paddle out on Waugh Lake, and check out their infrared sauna. The cherry on top is the delightful animals that live on the property. Geese, chickens, mini ponies, guinea fowl, and more. We explored the Skookumchuck trail and checked out the amazing whirlpools. Every inch of this forest is beautiful, made better by our time at the cabin. We will absolutely return! A 10/10 experience.

Jim

September 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to weed canary farm

Jamie was extremely welcoming and his place immediately became one of our favorites!

K

Katie

September 2025

2 nights at Strongwater Camping and Cabins

We LOVED staying at Cheyenne's Treehouse Cabin. We stayed in cabin 2 for 2 nights and it was pure perfection. It truly felt like you were in a treehouse among the trees. The whole property was gorgeous and miraculously upkept. The heater kept the cabin warm at night, towels and loonies for showers were provided. Close to Skookumchuk Narrows and Skookumchuk Bakery and Cafe (the cinnamon buns are a MUST). Would absolutely recommend for a friend.

R

Rik

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at weed canary farm

Jamie’s place is beautiful and Jamie a great host. We had a wonderful time there.

A

Alastair

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Camping site was flat and even. Bathroom was fantastic. Rabbits coming to visit in the evening were definitely a plus. All around a great venue.

N

Nikolas

September 2025

21 ft campervan

4 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Great private area, we were able to enjoy the open field.. The host was really helpful in finding the spot and always answered any questions.

Cindy

September 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

This site was just what we needed for a bit of a break before catching the Nanaimo ferry (30 min away). Cory and Trish were very quick to respond to any questions, including the whereabouts of a local dog friendly beach. The bathroom for the camp sites was beyond expectations. And of course, The Rocking Horse Pub just down the road is really such a perc.

C

Cohen

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to weed canary farm

The site was beautiful. Very romantic, quiet and full of nature. Plus the paddle boat was awesome!

S

Sarah

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at weed canary farm

Jamie is an exceptional host. Communication was so easy and professional. The land is beautiful, so spacious and private. A real treat to have so much space and quiet, while also being close to town and all the valley has to offer. Highly recommend, and will definitely be back. Jamie, the land and the chicken eggs are all amazing!

s

sharon

August 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

The site is huge! Nice and flat, potable water and power hook-ups. Trash, compost and recycling at the site. Flush toilet and sink very close to site. Hosts are very friendly and relaxed, ensuring guests enjoy their stay while allowing privacy. The site and bathroom was very clean. The field for our dog to run off-leash was a wonderful treat and Teddy had a blast! The area is quiet with beautiful star gazing at night. Lots to see and do, great hiking and swim spots close by. We enjoyed our stay very much! Absolutely recommend !

S

Sara

August 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at weed canary farm

We loved our stay at Jamie’s campsite. It is so beautiful and peaceful. A great place to relax and embrace the surrounding nature. All the personal touches he has put into the site, the tables, lit stairs, water, fire pit and outhouse add to the experience. The location is awesome as you are close to biking, swimming, paddling and town, and yet feel like you off the beaten track. Highly recommend it!! We will be back :)

The sunset at Bonniebrook Beach, just a short 10 min drive away, was absolutely breathtaking.

m

marcus

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunshine Coast Green Zone

Great setup The camp kitchen is convenient plenty of space

S

Samantha

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at weed canary farm

Had a relaxing and peaceful time at Jamie's campsite. Very comfortable with lots of space, the outdoor sink was very handy and the outhouse was well stocked and clean. His farm fresh eggs were such a delight to have in the mornings. Wonderful hosts. Will definitely be coming back 😊

W

Wendy

August 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

6 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

We loved camping at Cory's campsite. It was a beautiful setting, set up well - tidy and clean. It was so tranquil and quiet. We really enjoyed our time there.

D

Danielle

August 2025

24 ft campervan

With kids

3 nights at Dashwood Meadows

Amazing spot for camping with our 2 young kiddos. Serephina the donkey was the friendliest donkey we've ever met and the whole experience was so wonderful. Great location, great site, easy in and out, and very pleasant interactions with Amanda.

B

Becky

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dashwood Meadows

A great spot for our last minute need of somewhere to stay! Amanda’s place was charming, clean and secure! We definitely recommend staying here!

Dry place for your tent, outhouse across the driveway

M

Melissa

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to weed canary farm

This is a terrific hidden gem! So much space and Jamie couldn’t be more kind and attentive! Believe all the reviews, it’s a perfect place to camp 🏕️

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Parksville with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Qualicum Beach

Parksville’s “sister town,” this community of about 9,000 has art galleries, cafes, and independent shops. Yes, there’s a beach here, too.

Cathedral Grove

Some of Vancouver Island’s biggest trees grow toward the sky in MacMillan Provincial Park. Highway 4, 30 kilometres west of Parksville, runs directly through the park, and you can follow short hiking trails beneath the giant firs.

Denman Island

For an easy island escape, catch the 10-minute ferry to this expanse of dense forests, rocky beaches, and small local shops. The ferry to Denman Island departs from Buckley Bay, 30 minutes north of Parksville.

Tofino, Ucluelet, and the Pacific Coast

On Vancouver Island’s west coast, the towns of Tofino and Ucluelet feel completely different than Parksville—more secluded, quirkier, yet with top-notch restaurants and striking natural scenery. Take time to explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, with its beaches, hiking routes, and oceanside camping spots.

When to go

A short trip from Vancouver or Victoria, Parksville BC is a popular weekend getaway year-round. Both the town and the Parksville campgrounds and RV resorts are busiest during the warm summer months. Campground reservations are required at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park from late June through early September. Parksville campgrounds are less crowded in spring or fall, with mild if sometimes drizzlier days. Expect rain in winter, but temperatures rarely drop below freezing, so you can hike or explore the beaches all year.

Know before you go

From Vancouver, take BC Ferries’ car ferry from Horseshoe Bay (north of Vancouver) to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay. It’s a 35-minute drive north from Nanaimo to Parksville. Reserve a spot on the ferry for your car or RV in summer, or on holidays or weekends year-round.
No vehicle? You don’t need reservations to walk onto the ferry, and you’ll save on your ferry ticket. Regular buses travel between Vancouver and Horseshoe Bay. While bus service between Nanaimo and Parksville is less convenient, you can manage car-free once you reach your Parksville campground.
You can find most anything that you’d need for a Parksville camping adventure in stores around town.