The best mountainous campgrounds near Port Alberni, British Columbia

Set in a wild landscape of lakes and rivers, the historic lumber-and-sawmill town of Port Alberni has a natural playground spanning towering trees to deep caves. Whether mountain biking and hiking in the rainforest or paddling and swimming on two coasts, there’s a mix of adventure found at the head of the rich salmon fishing grounds of the Alberni inlet. Known as the Salmon Fishing Capital of BC, it’s home to year-round camping possibilities.

96% (463)

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Alberni

Set in a wild landscape of lakes and rivers, the historic lumber-and-sawmill town of Port Alberni has a natural playground spanning towering trees to deep caves. Whether mountain biking and hiking in the rainforest or paddling and swimming on two coasts, there’s a mix of adventure found at the head of the rich salmon fishing grounds of the Alberni inlet. Known as the Salmon Fishing Capital of BC, it’s home to year-round camping possibilities.

96% (463)

Top-rated campgrounds near Port Alberni

1. Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

92%

(299)

74km from Port Alberni · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat is an Award-winning Glamping Nature Retreat. We are centrally located on the Sunshine Coast (only a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay) on a spectacular 10-acre ocean-view property. We run a small, organic farm and host guests in intriguing tiny homes and glamping tents. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view, furnished RV's with large decks, to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabins, RV's, and assortment of glamping tents. Our property is a nature oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 20 minutes north of Sechelt, we're close to beaches and lakes. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond (much smaller in the summertime), our small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails, visit our chickens, or sit near our seasonal waterfall. There are many spots on the property to sit and chill. We've also been Airbnb hosts for over 13 years. If you come during campfire season, please bring your firewood. You're also welcome to scavenge for dead dry wood on the property, but we no longer have firewood for purchase. Typically, gas stations and some grocery stores have some for sale.

2. theDoighouse Earthship

99%

(268)

22km from Port Alberni · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, minutes from Qualicum Bay waterfront. Our location is a haven for adventurers and peace-seekers alike, offering easy access to the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. An hour north of Nanaimo, our property is an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Many of our guests stop here for a night or two on their way to and from the mainland to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing, or if skiing is your calling, Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive away. Spend time discovering forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park here in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches, including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes. Or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! If you're into hiking, use your All Trails App to discover the Lighthouse Country Trail (at our doorstep), including the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that the running shoes were lost, not the people wearing them! You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the forest's edge, or stay in our cozy tiny cabins. Wander our gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and good stuff! Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans and glass bottles? Our Earthship, currently under construction, is all about exploring a low-impact lifestyle, off-grid living in an energy-efficient dwelling built from recycled materials. Love for the planet and people and sharing of abundance make this project come alive, and why we don’t increase our rates for holidays and long weekends. Book a private Earthship tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project and answering any and all questions you may have. On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) Come visit, tour, and stay. Susan and Tony Doig

3. Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

100%

(4)

72km from Port Alberni · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging

Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, North Vancouver brings you to the Sechelt Peninsula, and just an hour's travel North up the coast is the Pender Harbour district. With beautiful scenery, hiking, kayaking, fishing, lakes and beaches, it's no wonder it's referred to as the Venice of the North. Choose your glamping experience: bunkie cabins, 38' 2 bedroom park model trailer, 14 x 24 offered safari tent, or bring your RV and set up at one of our serviced RV sites.

4. Alpine View Full Service RV PAD

22km from Port Alberni · 1 site · RV

Welcome to our Fully Serviced RV Pad with breathtaking Mountain Views! Escape the city and enjoy nature. Amenities include water, 30 amp power, septic, and Wi-Fi. With ample parking available for an extra vehicle, you'll have no trouble bringing along everything you need for your adventure. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views that surround our tranquil and idyllic new-acreage community. 15 mins to Qualicum, 8 mins to Cameron Lake, and Little Qualicum Falls, 25 mins to Port Alberni! Book now for a memorable stay! (Sorry, no tent camping as we have no bathroom)

5. Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

11km from Port Alberni · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging

Surrounded by tall trees on Vancouver Island this property is scenic, quiet and near to endless outdoor adventures. Located on 1 acre, fully fenced. Its a 200 metre walk to a community dock and boat launch (room to park your toys in our driveway). 500 metres from endless forest trails for hiking and biking. 10 minutes to/from the highway to Tofino (1hr30)/Parksville (1hr). A few minutes’ walk to warm and welcoming Sproat Lake. Enjoy your own outdoor space among the trees. Free Blackberries!

6. Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

39km from Port Alberni · 48 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%

(9)

71km from Port Alberni · 3 sites · Lodging

We are located on a beautiful forested acreage! Our property is in the heart of Black Creek, BC. We have two RVs turned into an enclosed space available for campers. Either those who are passing by or would love to explore our little community. We are a small walk away to Saratoga Speedway and the mini gulf course. We are a short distance away from two amazing beaches; one is pristine sandy beach and the other is Miracle Beach Provincial Campground. At low tide it is the perfect place to explore. When your done from your days journey, you can walk our beautiful farm trails. Our community and property is perfect for children to explore. On our property we even have a small playground and a pond to explore. Don’t forget to feed the chickens your leftovers :) Our home away from home offers every you need. Just bring you, family or friends. We have bedding, towels, shampoo, conditioner and more!

8. Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

81km from Port Alberni · 7 sites · Lodging

Our property is an outdoor enthusiasts haven, surrounded by walking, hiking & cycling trails on the side of one of BC's most beautiful swimming lakes. We offer onsite boat and paddleboard rentals as well as a private dock, seasonal onsite yoga classes. Our property also features a large lagoon that doubles as a natural wildlife and bird sanctuary and the property is home to hundreds of birds, both wild and tame. You'll also see beavers, otters, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and more! Our renowned onsite restaurant, La Trattoria Italiana, offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine, with both indoor lakeview dining as well as outdoor seating on our covered waterfront patio.

9. Lot4.Caycuse

100%

(3)

50km from Port Alberni · 1 site · Lodging

***This site is currently being upgraded to a larger tent and adding more amenities for our guests. We will reopen on April 15th this year*** Welcome to our magical property nestled in a semi-remote temperate rainforest on Vancouver island. The 5 acre property is filled with wonderful trails to explore, a nearby lake, and a custom Sauna & Ice Plunge to take the stress of the day away. You'll wake up to the calmness of the forest, the sounds of the birds, and the sun shining through the moss covered trees.

Camper favorites near Port Alberni

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Alpine View Full Service RV PAD

22km from Port Alberni · 1 site · RV

Welcome to our Fully Serviced RV Pad with breathtaking Mountain Views! Escape the city and enjoy nature. Amenities include water, 30 amp power, septic, and Wi-Fi. With ample parking available for an extra vehicle, you'll have no trouble bringing along everything you need for your adventure. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views that surround our tranquil and idyllic new-acreage community. 15 mins to Qualicum, 8 mins to Cameron Lake, and Little Qualicum Falls, 25 mins to Port Alberni! Book now for a memorable stay! (Sorry, no tent camping as we have no bathroom)

Tranquility by the Lake

94%

(9)

11km from Port Alberni · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging

Surrounded by tall trees on Vancouver Island this property is scenic, quiet and near to endless outdoor adventures. Located on 1 acre, fully fenced. Its a 200 metre walk to a community dock and boat launch (room to park your toys in our driveway). 500 metres from endless forest trails for hiking and biking. 10 minutes to/from the highway to Tofino (1hr30)/Parksville (1hr). A few minutes’ walk to warm and welcoming Sproat Lake. Enjoy your own outdoor space among the trees. Free Blackberries!

Longleat House Old Growth Spirit

85%

(23)

39km from Port Alberni · 48 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

100%

(9)

71km from Port Alberni · 3 sites · Lodging

We are located on a beautiful forested acreage! Our property is in the heart of Black Creek, BC. We have two RVs turned into an enclosed space available for campers. Either those who are passing by or would love to explore our little community. We are a small walk away to Saratoga Speedway and the mini gulf course. We are a short distance away from two amazing beaches; one is pristine sandy beach and the other is Miracle Beach Provincial Campground. At low tide it is the perfect place to explore. When your done from your days journey, you can walk our beautiful farm trails. Our community and property is perfect for children to explore. On our property we even have a small playground and a pond to explore. Don’t forget to feed the chickens your leftovers :) Our home away from home offers every you need. Just bring you, family or friends. We have bedding, towels, shampoo, conditioner and more!

Ruby Lake Resort

100%

(2)

81km from Port Alberni · 7 sites · Lodging

Our property is an outdoor enthusiasts haven, surrounded by walking, hiking & cycling trails on the side of one of BC's most beautiful swimming lakes. We offer onsite boat and paddleboard rentals as well as a private dock, seasonal onsite yoga classes. Our property also features a large lagoon that doubles as a natural wildlife and bird sanctuary and the property is home to hundreds of birds, both wild and tame. You'll also see beavers, otters, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and more! Our renowned onsite restaurant, La Trattoria Italiana, offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine, with both indoor lakeview dining as well as outdoor seating on our covered waterfront patio.

Lot4.Caycuse

100%

(3)

50km from Port Alberni · 1 site · Lodging

***This site is currently being upgraded to a larger tent and adding more amenities for our guests. We will reopen on April 15th this year*** Welcome to our magical property nestled in a semi-remote temperate rainforest on Vancouver island. The 5 acre property is filled with wonderful trails to explore, a nearby lake, and a custom Sauna & Ice Plunge to take the stress of the day away. You'll wake up to the calmness of the forest, the sounds of the birds, and the sun shining through the moss covered trees.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kyle

November 2025

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

Was great to get off the grid and see the Earthship!

Putting the final touches to the cabin garden.

k

kevin

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at theDoighouse Earthship

Both Susan and Tony were amazing hosts. They were always quick to answer any questions and were incredibly kind! We did end up booking a tour with them of their place which was truly spectacular and original. Me and my parter have already discussed when we will return next. We will be forever thinking about our conversations with them both sharing our love for the environment and dogs:) Looking forward to our next visit!

G

Gannon

October 2025

Tent

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

Susan was an excellent host. When we first showed up we were a little lost and she guided us right to our campsite. We were camping on Thanksgiving and she invited us into her home and gave us a slice of homemade pumpkin pie (it was amazing). We left in a hurry but we would definitely go back again.

c

christopher

October 2025

Weekend Trip to theDoighouse Earthship

Maple Cabin was comfy and all I say about the Earthship is, “Wow”!! Completely off the grid, it's a unique and wonderful building. Thank you Tony and Susan for showing us around your amazing creation and well done. Bravo!!

P

Pierre

September 2025

1 night at theDoighouse Earthship

Great spot, very nice and welcoming hosts, cosy cabin 👍

There's lot of room around the cabin to play and enjoy.

Christin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Staying in Karen & Kito's A-frame cabin was a super unique experience! With a solar-powered battery, a little propane heater a stove and BBQ, I had everything I needed to enjoy a lovely night at the Tiny Secrets Farm :) I was able to have the window wall open late into the night. There were no bugs!! It was fun to explore the property, visit the rabbits and chickens and chat with Dan, the caretaker, who was super friendly and made sure I had a great stay! I really loved how quiet and peaceful it was! The shower is rustic but hot water is really all I needed ;)

G

Gillian

September 2025

3 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Love this little micro cabin! It was well stocked with everything one could need and oh so cozy. The loft is so fun (gets a little warm at times) and the multi directional windows are great for letting a breeze through. The compost toilet isn’t my favourite but I am grateful for a warm shower (it’s a little inconsistent but it’s not cold!) Dan the groundskeeper and Kito and Karen are all lovely and leave you to relax but are readily available should you need anything. Very kind and receptive hosts. Looking forward to returning one day ☺️

Our dog loves chickens so she was happy to make new chicken friends.

Lisa

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

Danielle has thought of every detail that made our glamping vacation easy, comfortable and full of memories! Highlights were: coffee on the patio, feeding the chickens, picking blackberries and taking our dog for walks on the property. Our hosts were so friendly and responsive to any questions we had. A great place to unplug and unwind!

Campsite in the woods with everything that you need, including solar lights lol

L

Laura

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

The property is beautiful and a great setup with so much equipment! Made our experience much easier and more pleasant. We also loved visiting the chickens and rabbits on site. The on-sight staff, Dan, was a joy and made us feel so welcome.

Beautiful, large sunny campsite with picnic table and fire pit.

Mark

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

For an overnight stop whilst cycle touring this is a good bet. However, the climb up from the main highway is very steep in parts. But the downhill the next morning is a great start to the day. The shower was VERY hot and needed adjusting. There is only one shower and one toilet so plan your ablutions well in advance.

Laura

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tranquility by the Lake

Beautiful and quiet place with all that you need. Jen and her family are very kind and helpful.

B

Ben

August 2025

38 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

Garden Bay is an absolutely beautiful place. Michelle was an excellent host and the location of the camp is just right.

P

Phoebe

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Well maintained and managed site! Highly recommended.

Gravel driveway with deck suitable for pitching tent. Shown here with a small RV.

C

Charlotte

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Karen and Kito put a lot of love into their little slice of paradise and you can really feel it. There are so many interesting books and crannies to explore.

The side of the bus reflecting the evening light

C

Cheryl

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Our toddler LOVED the School Bus. She never wanted to leave. There was also a small park that was great for kids.

C

Cheryll

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rad Red Barn RV Glamping Experience

This was our second time booking Whimsical Red Barn and it was just as wonderful as the first! Danielle, Warren and their family are such warm and welcoming hosts—they put so much heart into this space, and it really shows. Their place is cozy, charming, and full of thoughtful touches that make it feel special. It’s just one of those places that makes you feel good just to be there- relaxing and uplifting. Just what we needed before school starts for our kids. We loved everything about this place. Way better than a hotel.

M

Melissa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Adorable, private, cozy little cabin. I loved my stay. Many details show the hosts really care. The cabin was ready with fresh towels, drinking water, ice pack in cooler and propane for the stovetop. It was the perfect place for me to unwind, I look forward to staying here again.

Taptap

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Had a great experience staying here for the weekend. The campsite was very clean, peaceful, and quiet - perfect for relaxing. Definitely recommend!

K

Katie

August 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Garden Bay Hideaway Glamping & RV

Michelle and her husband were great hosts. The trailer had everything we needed. We really enjoyed our girls weekend away.

J

Jack and Danika

August 2025

3 nights at Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

Lovely place. We stayed in the converted school bus. It was really nice and homie. Only downside is it got really hot during the day and cold during the night but that was easily fixable by opening the windows and doors, and using plenty of blankets at night. Very quiet property and was amazing to see the stars at night as it was also very dark/no light pollution :)

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best mountainous camping near Port Alberni guide

When to go

Vancouver Island’s mild climate means outdoor adventures like caving can take place year-round, but summer is best (and most crowded) for camping and taking full advantage of the lakes and rivers for water sports. Late summer and early fall is the annual salmon run, during which you can spot the scarlet-hued fish swimming upstream to spawn.

Know before you go

Most provincial parks take site reservations in advance (recommended throughout the high season of summer) and give an early priority booking window to BC residents.
Getting to Vancouver Island by car from the mainland requires ferry travel, which becomes extremely busy on weekends and holidays, so reserve a spot in advance to avoid long wait times.
Central Vancouver Island is rugged, so being mindful and respectful of wildlife is essential, including using bear bags while camping.