Camping near Powell River, British Columbia

The Sunshine Coast Trail

Hike Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, a 180-kilometre backcountry hiking route, which leads through old-growth forests, along the ocean, and past inland lakes from Saltery Bay to Sarah Point in Desolation Sound.

Texada Island

On BC’s largest Gulf Island, you can explore the hiking trails or mountain bike routes through the forests, kayak the inland lakes, or go for a swim. Campers can pitch their tent or park their RV near the beach in Shelter Point Regional Park, which has 52 campsites, flush toilets, showers, and a sani-station. BC Ferries travel between Westview in Powell River and Texada Island’s Blubber Bay in 35 minutes.

Savary Island

Known for its white sand beaches and unexpectedly warm waters, this quiet island is only 7.5 kilometres long and one kilometre wide. It’s a good spot for biking, and for campers, there’s a privately run camping area with 10 tenting sites. Water taxis can take you to Savary Island from Lund, north of Powell River.

Desolation Sound Marine Park

Boaters or kayakers can explore the inlets, bays, and small islands off the coast north of Powell River is this backcountry park, which has 11 wilderness campgrounds. A number of operators offer kayak tours here, if you don’t want to organize your own paddling trip.

When to Go

Powell River and the Sunshine Coast are year-round destinations. The weather is warmest, driest, and most comfortable for campers from April through October. The busiest season is the mild summer, between late June and early September, but spring and fall are both lovely, if cooler and damper. Winters are mild, compared to other destinations in Canada, with temperatures normally above freezing. Just prepare for plenty of winter rain—better for cuddling around the fire than camping on the beach.

Know Before You Go

• From Vancouver, it takes two ferries to reach Powell River. From the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, take BC Ferries service to Langdale, at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast. Drive north on Highway 101 (the Sunshine Coast Highway) to catch the Earl’s Cove-Saltery Bay ferry, and continue north on Highway 101 into Powell River.
• Before crossing to the north Sunshine Coast, stop at Skookumchuck Narrows, near Egmont, to see the dramatic tides and spectacular whirlpools that sweep between Sechelt and Jervis Inlets twice a day. It’s an easy four-kilometre hike through the forest to the Narrows. Check the tide schedule to arrive at the best viewing times.
• You can find groceries and other camping supplies in Powell River. Many of the camping areas outside of town or on the islands are fairly remote, so stock up on what you need before you reach your campsite.