The best camping in Vancouver Island

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Vancouver island campers will find some of western Canada’s best natural beauty right outside their tent flap, all set in a compact-enough size for an action-packed trip with Victoria serving as a convenient city hub. Options range from rugged wilderness campsites set amid remote beaches to family-friendly camping spots surrounded by ancient rainforest, and no matter when you set out, temperatures are generally mild enough for year-round camping. Outdoor activities on the island are seemingly endless too—think hiking, fishing, kayaking, and keeping an eye out for wildlife such as bears, whales, and elk. Explore this wild part of British Columbia with a tent campsite, RV stay, or a glamping getaway.

90% (308) • 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Vancouver Island

JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

1. JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

85%
(516)
Tofino, BC · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to JX Surf Shop and Campground! We are located just 10 minutes outside of beautiful Ucluelet and only 5 minutes away from the Pacific Rim National Park. We have 30amp-powered sites with water hookups as well as tenting sites. We also offer overnight parking for those sleeping in their cars. We share property with other great businesses! -JX Surf Shop has rentals and can also book surf lessons for you! -TickinT-Bird rents E-bikes so you can bike to all the beaches in the Pacific Rim National Park. 9am-4pm - Tommy's Pizza offers unforgettable Neapolitan-style pizzas. Skip the dishes while camping and be delighted! 3pm-9pm Wednesday to Monday - SunRay Food rtuck has smoothies, baked goodies and variety food like Tacos, Falafel, Quinoa bowls, Sandwiches, Wraps, Hot Dogs and much more for everyone. 9am-3pm Thursday to Monday Camp Surf Dine and Ride at JX Campground **Please note that JX Campground is for short term camping only. Vehicles, tents, trailers must leave the property after a maximum stay of one week. Thank you for your understanding.
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Surrounded by Nature!

2. Surrounded by Nature!

95%
(166)
Victoria, BC · 1 site
**Important Note:** This site is **for fully self-contained RVs only**. We cannot accommodate tents, rooftop tents, campervans without onboard washrooms, or car camping. There are **no toilet facilities** available, and **outdoor/nature pees are not permitted**. Thanks for respecting this! --- Nestled on two private acres surrounded entirely by Elk Lake Regional Park, our peaceful RV site offers the perfect stopover between Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal and downtown Victoria—just 20 minutes from each. This is a multi-generational family property, also home to two friendly dogs, a one-eyed cat, and a lively bunch of chickens. You’ll be tucked away in a semi-private, flat gravel site bordered by fir trees, with easy access and plenty of turnaround space. Enjoy scenic walks right from your site—only 5 minutes to Elk Lake Beach for swimming, paddling, or casting a line, or head to Bear Hill Regional Park for a rewarding 20-minute hike through fir and arbutus forest with stunning views from the top. You’re also just 10 minutes from world-famous Butchart Gardens and the charming Butterfly Gardens along the way. Ideal for **1–2 night stays**, especially for couples or small groups (up to 4 people total) looking for a restful, nature-connected stop en route to Tofino or around the Island. You'll also find local farms, wineries, coffee shops, and restaurants nearby to round out your Vancouver Island adventure.
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Decourcy Meadows

3. Decourcy Meadows

100%
(100)
Ladysmith, BC · 1 site
Decourcy Meadows is a peaceful forested site within a short walking distance to a safe local swimming beach. We are an RV-only campsite. The site is level and can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. Electrical, sewage, and potable water hookups included. Amenities include a picnic table, wifi and a fire ring and some fire wood supplied at no cost. If there is a campfire ban in effect we will provide a propane campfire. The property is about half natural forest and so it's not unusual to see local critters, large and small peeking out! There are several hiking trails in the area and local parks as well. There are 3 artisans on Decourcy Drive. The world-famous Crow and Gate pub is 4 km from here and the historic Wheat Sheaf Hotel (Pub) is about 5 km. Local restaurants and Cafes, Groceries, Pharmacy are 5 km. We are a quiet country getaway located 25 minutes from Nanaimo Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. Duke Point Terminal is about 20 minutes. Picturesque town of Ladysmith is about 25 minutes south and the very Unique town of Chemainus is 35 minutes and very worth seeing.
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Full hookups
Terravita Brentwood Bay

4. Terravita Brentwood Bay

97%
(58)
Brentwood Bay, BC · 2 sites
Looking for camping near Victoria, BC? Our peaceful 1.5 acre property on the Saanich Peninsula offers the perfect escape just 20 minutes from the city. Enjoy a scenic stay only a 3-minute walk (yes only 200m/200 yards) from the world-famous Butchart Gardens and steps away from the trails of Tod Inlet. Experience the best of Vancouver Island’s natural beauty with the convenience of being close to town. Half of the property is beautifully forested with majestic fir and cedar trees, while the rest features thriving vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, and our friendly ducks. We’ve long hosted adventurous bikepackers on their journeys and now warmly welcome hikers, bicycle tourists, motorcycle travelers, and car campers alike. We offer two unique sites tailored to your camping style: - Licorice Fern (WALK-IN Tent Site): A private, deep-forest retreat located a 1–3 minute walk from parking. Comfortably hosts up to 4 guests. Closer to the road, so some daytime road noise that completely fades at night—ideal for late risers. - Cottontail (WALK-IN Tent Site): A bright, sun-soaked spot close to the kitchen/washrooms, just 1–3 minutes from parking. Accommodates up to 4 guests and gets wonderful morning sun. Expect some cheerful chatter from our free-roaming nearby ducks — perfect for early risers. Each site is a short stroll away from the dishwashing and meal-prep station with a sink, kettle, flush toilet, and a hot rainwater shower. Fresh, high-quality drinking water is available at the washing sink along with electrical outlets for charging phones and e-bikes. Well water is available either at or nearby each site for washing and cooking. There are also a couple of hammocks in the forest to relax in during your stay. Nearby Attractions & Access: - Butchart Gardens: 3-minute walk - Butterfly Gardens: 4-minute drive - Greater Victoria: 20–25 minutes - Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Vancouver & Gulf Islands): ~20 minutes - Mill Bay Ferry Terminal (northbound connections): ~5 minutes - Coho Ferry to Port Angeles: 25 minutes The charming village of Brentwood Bay is just a 5-minute drive away, offering a grocery store, pharmacies, restaurants, cafés, a pub, and all the daily conveniences you might need.
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Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

5. Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%
(145)
BC · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Gorgeous forested 5 acre property at the top of Eagle Ridge with a rugged walking trail throughout our land. See ocean glimpses from our trail, walk to Long Harbour in 20 minutes, drive to Ganges in 4 minutes, or cycle to town in 10 minutes. Enjoy all Salt Spring has to offer, by car, by bike or by bus. Come stay with us!
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theDoighouse Earthship

6. theDoighouse Earthship

99%
(381)
Qualicum Bay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship — the ultimate central basecamp for your Vancouver Island adventure. Nestled under the canopy of a beautiful West Coast temperate rainforest in Qualicum Bay, theDoighouse Earthship is a peaceful eco-retreat and the perfect jump-off point for exploring in any direction. Our campsites are mindfully scattered across two acres of our larger woodland property. They are designed to offer a peaceful forest experience—spread out enough that you won't be bothered by neighbouring camping sounds, while still letting you catch a friendly glimpse of tent lights through the trees. 📍 Great Location on Vancouver Island Our spot is ideal for both adventurers and peace-seekers. Use us as your ideal base to explore local trails, visit the iconic ancient giants at Cathedral Grove, and take an inspiring tour of our Earthship before you head further west to explore Tofino or journey up north. Located about an hour north of Nanaimo, we’re a great stopover for guests travelling to or from the mainland. Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive if skiing is on your itinerary, and we’re also well-positioned for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. 🥾 Hiking, Beaches, and Outdoor Fun Nearby Explore forest trails, a children’s playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. The Lighthouse Country area offers endless outdoor adventures, including: • Sunny Beach • Spider and Horne Lakes • Horne Lake Caves (great for climbers and explorers) Hikers can use the AllTrails app to find the Lighthouse Country Trail at our doorstep, including the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. (Urban legend says the running shoes were lost—not the runners!) ⛺ Stay your way: Lodging in the Forest Whether you are looking for an off-grid cabin experience or pitching a classic camp under the canopy, we have a spot for you: • Cozy Tiny Cabins: Unwind and relax in one of our intimate, rustic forest cabins. • Forest RV Sites: Park your rig right at the quiet edge of our woodland. • Garden & Under the Canopy Tent Sites: Pitch your tent amidst our green spaces and trees. While you are here, wander the property and enjoy our young permaculture food forest, filled with fruit trees, hazelnuts, berries, and other good things growing with care. 🌎 Discover Our Off-Grid Earthship Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, earth, pop cans, and glass bottles? Our Earthship - currently under construction - is an exploration of low-impact, off-grid living in an energy-efficient home built from recycled materials. This project is rooted in a love for the planet, people, and sharing abundance—which is why we don’t raise our rates for holidays or long weekends. 🔍 Book a Private Earthship Tour (Optional) Guests can book a private Earthship tour, where Tony will spend a couple of hours sharing the story behind the Doighouse project and answering all your questions. 🌿 Come Visit, Tour, and Stay We look forward to hosting you. Susan and Tony Doig
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Tyee Valley Farm - Private Forest Sites in the Comox Valley

7. Tyee Valley Farm - Private Forest Sites in the Comox Valley

100%
(201)
Courtenay, BC · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us on our family farm in Merville, the heart of the Comox Valley. As we transition to winter operations, stays will require a fully self contained van, camper, trailer or similar. We will have no potable water or porta pottie on site. Regular season camping returns May 1st, 2027. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Courtenay, you'll find a slower pace, quieter sites and more nature surrounding you than the commercial campgrounds. Comox and Cumberland are both 25 minutes away giving you options for marine activities, mountain biking, shopping, dining and more. Check in with us for current vegetable, fruit and floral options while you're here. Site 1 and 2 are medium sized drive-in sites. Site 3 is a tent-only site. Site 4 is a bit more open also for vans, campers, and tents, and we have a last-minute available Site 5 for vehicle camping. These sites will welcome you to recharge in nature. Dark night skies will open you to all the majesty of our solar system with great stargazing opportunities. Each standard campsite has a flat gravel surface suitable for tents, smaller RV's, shorter travel trailers, truck campers, rooftop tents, camper vans, and similar. Site 3 has a tent pad, well suited for cyclists or motorbikes. Small trailers up to 20 feet may be usable, but access may be tight. Please note, that while there is a campfire ban, camp stoves and propane fire pits are permitted. Easy access to Mt Washington and Strathcona Park, local beaches, rivers and more.
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Raysong Cabin and Camp Sites

8. Raysong Cabin and Camp Sites

98%
(24)
Qualicum Beach, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
10 minutes from the ocean and public beach, walkways and food vendors. We are conveniently located just off the Qualicum Beach 'strip' offering a perfect vacation get away. Various options for sites nestled among the trees on our 7 acre homestead. 2 sites in the woods and 1 #Vanlife nestled in a more open site along our private drive by the cabins nearest to the communal fire pit. Come visit....! Campers can visit with the hobby farm animals through the fence or with a guide. Stroll through the meandering paths and visit the horses. Love goats? They will love you! Please note that camp stoves (propane) are permitted at the campsites. If you would like to enjoy a log fire, the communal fire pit near the cabins offers an opportunity to enjoy a wood burning fire when local fire bans are lifted. Please contact the host for details if you cannot locate fire bans. Raysong is located on 7 green acres 10 minutes from public beach access on the Salish Sea, waterfront walkway with food trucks and restaurants and central to Qualicum Beach, Coombs, Bowser, Horne Lake Caves and the inland highway scenic route. Travelling the Island? We are a convenient mid route stopover if you are travelling to Lasqueti, Denman, Hornby, Texada Islands and Cortes & the Discovery Island Group. Travelling through to Tofino, Ucluelet and the Pacific Rim National Park? Stop in for a two night stay and recharge with the amenities available (and check out the renowned Saturday Market!) or book your family vacation for the week. We invite you to relax and enjoy our private estate.
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Ohana Farms

9. Ohana Farms

96%
(219)
BC · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Ohana farmns is a 46 Acre produce and flower farm. We are located on Pender Island in the beautiful Gulf Islands. Accomodations can be hard to find on the island, and if you do, they can often be expensive....we hope to change this by offering up the authentic experience of setting up a campsite right here on the farm!
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Maple Tree

10. Maple Tree

98%
(80)
Salt Spring Island, BC · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We have two full Large R.V. sites with 30 and 50 amp power service, sewer, water, WIFI service, Portable Washroom. Private land in residential neighborhood. areas for 2 Tenting spots also. 5 mins to Town of Ganges, Local shopping, banks, restaurants, golf course, Boating rentals, Fishing, Wineries, art galleries, waterfront, Hiking trails, Amazing Island views, and Saturday Markets. Summer live entertainment in town. Ocean boardwalks. Or just unwind in a private setting.
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Pacific Ranch

11. Pacific Ranch

97%
(79)
Victoria, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
On a hillside property in the heart of Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Ranch offers amazing views, stream-side forest walks, and private tranquillity. Driving in along the winding and steep driveway, you will arrive on our unique property and find rocky, moss-covered bluffs, and fern-carpeted forests. Across these settings are two private campsites for one to choose from. There are no toilet facilities at our site so you will have to bring your own toilet. There is a lot to do in the area for outdoor adventurers, including walks along the Galloping Goose Trail, many local beaches, as well as biking and hiking trails right off of the ranch. You can visit picturesque local villages close by, as well as head to one of the local lakes for a day of swimming. Bring your own tents and van/truck campers. We can accommodate vehicles under 22 feet (water hookup available). You will be parking on loose gravel and the site requires levelling. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban.
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Water hookup
Potable water
Portal Retreat

12. Portal Retreat

98%
(83)
Port Alberni, BC · 1 site
The "Portal Retreat" is here: Unplug, relax, and unwind! Bonus: A 3-minute walk to the lake! Come and explore the glamping " Portal" style. We offer a unique experience just steps away from beautiful Sproat Lake. This is a retreat-type space and is specifically set up to help you get away from your busy life. There are books, games, hummingbirds, deer, and all that nature has to offer including the Lake, a stone's throw away for a quick dip to rejuvenate the mind and body. The Portal is 18 feet long and 8 feet wide and is your very own private space. Featuring a beautiful deck for relaxation, reading, star gazing, yoga, or alfresco dining, with the interior offering a queen bed, sofa small table and two chairs. Oh so cozy and romantic. There is a fancy outhouse that flushes water and is equipped with a sink. This space is best suited for a single, a couple, and possibly a fur baby and/or little one. We are located on a quiet residential street 20 minutes from Port Alberni and en route to Tofino or Ucluelet. We have walking and mountain biking trails minutes from the house. If you are bringing a fur baby, please let us know. It must be on a leash at all times. Please bring your fur baby's favourite blanket or bed to sleep on. We kindly ask that you keep your fur baby off the furniture and bed, and that you please not leave your pet unattended. The Portal has internet and spotty cell service. There is an outlet for charging, etc. Parking is on-site. Local food options include the "The Fish & Duck Pub" which is just a short walk away. Call Doordash to deliver a meal from one of our local restaurants, such as Sproat Lake Landing, or bring a picnic to enjoy. Canoe $40.00 per day $200 deposit. Please bring your own PFD and any personal protective gear you may require. Subject to availability, Ice can be supplied and is $5/bag We supply plates, cutlery, etc. please bring your own pots pans. We understand that life happens, but please try to arrive no later than 8:30 p.m. for check-in or you can self check in.
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Mary's Farm and Sanctuary

13. Mary's Farm and Sanctuary

100%
(10)
Langford, BC · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mary's Farm and Sanctuary sits on 30 acres of forest, field, and farmland. We believe in the intrinsic value of all beings and provide a safe, caring place to all those who are with us at the farm, be it person, animal, tree or plant. We are home to an 18-hole basket disc golf course which is available to play during your stay. The farm is also home to horses, goats, ducks, chickens, rabbits, dogs and cats. Both disc golf and animal visits can be booked as an Extra during your stay.
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Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

14. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

99%
(150)
Nanoose Bay, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Salmon Point on Nature Trail

15. Salmon Point on Nature Trail

98%
(92)
Campbell River, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a natural rustic west coast experience of peaceful wilderness where there are possible sightings of deer, bears, seals, herons, eagles, swans, geese, ducks and many songbirds depending on the seasons. The property is located at Salmon Point between Campbell River and Comox/Courtenay, BC. This is your gateway to everything that makes Vancouver Island the ultimate destination if you love the outdoors. Saltwater and beach fishing, kayaking, boating, golfing, and hiking are just minutes away.​ There is a resort and marina across the road and an Italian kitchen restaurant . Shelter Point Distillery property is adjacent to the property. The trail goes along the ocean, through old-growth forests and along the river ending at a grocery, liquor store, coffee and pizza place, medical clinic and a small pharmacy. The property does have an outhouse, electrical plug-in option at house and water hose close to house. This place is best suited for self-contained campers who can park in the open field or under fir trees near to the house. Tents, smaller travel trailers and camper vans can be accommodated. In the early 1900s, a hotel was on the property that serviced the ships heading north in the straight and those travelling between Campbell River and Courteney. The area is within 2 km of two large sand beaches, a Chinese restaurant, and a Spa. Between Salmon Point and Courtney, you will find farm land with local fruits, vegetables, eggs and meat for sale and wineries.
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Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

16. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%
(132)
Black Creek, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are located on a beautiful farm with lots of animals to see! Our property is in Black Creek, BC. We have one private site available for tent and RV/trailer campers. The site is level and grassy and it can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. We provide a picnic table, wifi, and potable water. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We also have a new tiny home situated beside our field where the llamas, goats and sheep hang out, with a covered deck and firepit area. Black Creek is a small town located on the eastern shore of North Central Vancouver Island, home to stunning beaches and outdoor recreation. At nearby Saratoga Beach, the tide goes out for over a quarter of a mile, creating a hard-packed oceanfront playground perfect for children to safely explore. Miracle Provincial Park is close by with a picnic area overlooking the water and a series of lovely trails winding through lush forest. You can visit the Oyster River Hatchery, check out the seals and sea lions in Seal Bay Regional Park, do some saltwater fishing for salmon, or even rent a go-cart and race around the Saratoga Speedway, or just watch others do it.
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Nature’s Way Yurt Sanctuary

17. Nature’s Way Yurt Sanctuary

98%
(21)
Victoria, BC · 1 site
A quiet, private yurt tucked into the land — a place to slow down, unplug, and settle into a different rhythm for a night or two. Simple, off-grid, and intentionally unpolished in the best way. This space was created as a place to step out of the usual pace of things. Not a resort, not a curated luxury stay — just a simple, well-loved yurt on private land, with the basics you need to rest, cook, and spend time outside. The yurt sits a short walk from the parking area, on the edge of a clearing near the pond. Immersed in nature, you’ll hear birds, wind through the trees, & maybe the ducks chattering near the pond. Wild flowers and towering trees surround the space, which is private and self- contained. Inside the yurt, there’s a comfy queen bed, a small wood stove for cooler nights, and a simple, cozy setup. No grid power — just rechargeable lighting and a slower pace. Outside, you’ll have access to: – a covered outdoor kitchen space (propane burners + charcoal grill) – a hot/cold outdoor shower – composting outhouse – propane fire pit lounge area It’s a place that tends to invite a different kind of stay — slower mornings, earlier evenings, time outside, simple meals. At times, we also open our private Nature Spa space (wood-fired hot tub, sauna, and cold immersion), though availability varies seasonally, especially through the summer months due to fire restrictions. If you’re interested in accessing the Spa during your stay, check out our "Extras" during booking - we try to keep it updated with whats available. This space tends to be a good fit for those who: – enjoy simple, off-grid stays – are comfortable tending a fire if needed – appreciate quiet, nature, and a bit of independence It’s probably not the right fit if you are: - Looking for a fully serviced or luxury experience - Needing constant power, Wi-Fi, or modern amenities - Highly sensitive to ambient noise. Depending on the season, the frogs in the pond are loud at night! And there is the occasional hum of traffic noticeable during peak rush hour. If you’re looking for a cozy, nature-immersed place to land for a couple of days, this space is here for you.
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Poplar Grove Family Farm

18. Poplar Grove Family Farm

98%
(72)
Qualicum Beach, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our secluded and peaceful camping spot nestled on our 10-acre family property, formerly a Poplar Plantation. Located just 1 minute from Alberni Highway in Qualicum Beach, our site offers over 1 km of trails to explore, with the opportunity to wander through lavender or sunflower fields depending on the season. Bring the kids to explore and find more than 40 fairy houses along the trails. Dogs are free to roam off leash. Off Season Nov 1 -March 1 receive a $10 a day discount please message We provide 50 amp and separate 30 amp hookups, filtered potable water, and a grey water dump (no black water) along with dedicated site Wi-Fi access. Your trailer or RV can enjoy a spacious 50 x 15 area, with room for one additional vehicle and multiple tents on grass. We also provide a picnic table for your convenience. Please note: there is no shower or bathroom facilities Additional options include: Propane fire pit or full-size BBQ rental ($5 per day including propane) Large tote of pre split firewood $10 SUP or kayak rental with deposit (please enquire) Professional photo shoot (please enquire) Enjoy the convenience of being just 10 minutes away from the ocean in beautiful Qualicum Beach, as well as 10 minutes from Little Qualicum Provincial Park or Cameron Lake. Additionally, you're only 5 minutes away from the world-famous Goats on the Roof in Coombs. Our location also serves as a great stopping point on your trip to Tofino, just 1 minute off the Alberni Hwy.
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Sea Change Farm and Nursery

19. Sea Change Farm and Nursery

97%
(120)
Shirley, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
💚💜Enjoy the simple wild private campsites with gravel pad's and picnic tables, on the edge of a creek ravine with second growth forest, and the regeneration of the younger forest around you. A big beautiful pond hosts lots of wildlife and you will hear our ducks and chickens making their happy noises on the wind. And for your information—This year we have a quiet long term camper at the end of the road. There are large berms full of greenery between each site for privacy. Sheringham light house and Shirley Delicious Cafe are within walking or biking distance and The Stoked wood fire pizza is also just down the road beside French beach. You have the opportunity to visit DREAM THREADS studio on site and shop for unique and natural clothing and kimonos made by Navit. No shortage of sights to take in on the west Coast of Vancouver island. For more information look in our descriptions.♥️
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Forest Hideaway

20. Forest Hideaway

99%
(117)
Duncan, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hi! We’re your hosts, Seth, Jodie, and Megan Williams. Recently we decided to share our property that we love and have enjoyed so much for two reasons: to give others the opportunity to enjoy it and to put money away for university. Our parents, Mark and Sarah, got behind the vision and are excited to be part of this project with us. We would describe our property as: home…and a really fun place to grow up! Our parents thought that wasn’t descriptive enough for Hipcamp so they’ve helped us describe it more. We live in a quiet neighbourhood in a forest that has been a source of peace, relaxation, and fun for us in our growing up years. We’ve noticed that people who visit here say they feel the same way. With plenty of space for kids to explore and adults to relax, our 3 acre forest is perfect for down time with a book in the hammock or a nature walk before dinner. Amenities and service: A single, tidy campsite with picnic table surrounded by mature and gently manicured forest, as well as a hammock, and a new construction outhouse. (Go dad!) We love hospitality, so though we won’t always be around when you’re here, if we are and you need something you can simply ask and we’ll do our best to provide what you need. To help you feel welcome we provide a fresh, cool jug of drinking water and large container of fresh potable water as well as access to an outside tap to fill water containers if needed (upon request) , power to charge devices (upon request), and a campfire ring with firewood (sorry about the frequent fire bans. Huge bummer. We will post current fire ban status while you’re here.) Surroundings and local attractions: Our property is situated in a low traffic rural residential area within ¬ 3 km to Sandy Pool Regional Park (5 min) A family favourite! ¬ 10 km to the Cowichan Valley Museum (Duncan Totem Tour) (13 min) ¬ 14 km to the Pacific Northwest Raptor Center (15 min) ¬ 19 km to the Hand of Man Museum (20 min) ¬ 20 km to Lake Cowichan (16 min) for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc Note: Lake Cowichan is also home to ‘The Tube Shack’ where you can rent tubes to float down the Cowichan River and catch the Tube Shack Bus back to your car. We do it every summer! Fun fact! It’s a 10-minute bike ride from our house to the Cowichan Valley Bike Trail. *(All destinations calculated from our dining table by Google maps) There are multiple well known hikes within 20 minutes (we suggest googling Stoney Hill Trail, Mt Tzouhalem, and Mt. Prevost.)
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Vancouver Island camping guide

Where to go

Greater Victoria

Yes, summer afternoons in Victoria can be a bit of a mob scene with cruise ship tourists scurrying to score their bucket list experiences, such as high tea at the Empress Hotel and wandering Butchart Gardens. But there’s so much more to the South Island (as locals call it), with dozens of provincial and regional parks to explore and unwind in. Can’t-miss adventures include the flat and smooth Lochside and Galloping Goose bike routes, the Sooke Potholes swimming hole, and the endless Pacific Ocean vistas along Highway 14 to Port Renfrew. Two provincial park campgrounds and numerous private RV parks sit within an hour of downtown.

Tofino and the Pacific Rim

How can a town that’s literally at the edge of North America (truly the end of the road) be so cool? In Tofino, explore the bold First Nations artwork of the Vickers Gallery, then rent surfboards at any of the funky surf shacks lining Highway 4 into town. Campers need reservations at Pacific Rim National Park in the summer months, yet there are a half-dozen private campgrounds that handle the overflow. Regardless of the weather, hikers will want to see Ucluelet's Wild Pacific Trail, and if you're looking to splurge on your next camping trip, book a whale watching excursion (with guaranteed sightings!), a zodiac trip to Hot Springs Cove, or an aerial floatplane tour around the Tofino.

Gulf Islands National Park

The dozens of Gulf Islands are like Vancouver Island in miniature—they’re rugged, picturesque places with quiet country roads and hidden camping gems. Visit farmer’s markets, dine at nautically-themed pubs and restaurants, and walk among the tangled arbutus trees that stand sentinel over precipitous limestone cliffs.

Mid-Vancouver Island

Two-and-a-half hours north of Victoria, Nanaimo is a major port of arrival and departure for BC Ferries’ routes connecting Vancouver city to Vancouver Island. This mid-Island region extends north to Comox and Courtenay along the island's sheltered, sunny eastern coastline, providing campers every possible kind of adventure. Sea kayaking, canoeing, sand-castle building, mountain biking, golf, and, of course, hiking and biking can be enjoyed on an almost year-round basis. Meanwhile, small ferries chug over to tiny west coast island communities. Watch for breaching and spy hopping orcas, plus bald eagles soaring overhead.

North Island

Continuing north of Campbell River (the "salmon fishing capital of the world"), forestry roads leading into the wilderness should be treated with caution, as massive logging trucks are still active in the area. The rewards for the journey, however, are well worth it, as North Island camping on remote mountain lakes means you’re unlikely to find anyone else around. Campers making the lengthy trip to Cape Scott Provincial Park at the western tip of Vancouver Island can set up their tent right on the beach for ocean views (stock up on supplies at Port Hardy or Port McNeill). To extend your adventure, ferries for Alaska via the Inside Passage depart from Port Hardy, the largest town in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are several locations on Vancouver Island where you can camp for free. These are typically known as "recreation sites" and offer rustic, first-come, first-served camping. Some popular free camping spots on Vancouver Island include:

  • Willis Point Recreation Site
  • Little Bear Bay Recreation Site
  • Pyramid Creek Recreation Site
  • Menzies Main Recreation Site

Please note that these sites are usually more basic and may not have all the amenities you would find at paid campgrounds. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these locations.

There are several beaches on Vancouver Island where you can camp. Some popular options include:

Please note that some of these campgrounds may require reservations, and availability can be limited during peak seasons. It's always a good idea to get in touch for the most up-to-date information on fees, rules, and reservation requirements.

Camping costs on Vancouver Island can vary depending on the type of campground, location, and amenities. On average, expect to pay between CAD 15 to CAD 45 per night for a basic tent or RV site at a provincial park or private campground. Prices can be higher for campgrounds with more amenities or for glamping options. Remember that reservation fees and additional vehicle fees may apply in some campgrounds.

To camp on Vancouver Island, follow these steps:

  1. Choose your campsite: Vancouver Island offers a variety of camping options, including provincial parks, private campgrounds, and recreational sites. Research and select a campsite that suits your preferences and needs. Some popular options include Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, MacMillan Provincial Park, and Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.
  2. Make a reservation: If you're planning to stay at a provincial park or private campground, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season (May to September). You can book provincial park campsites through Discover Camping. For private campgrounds, visit their individual websites for reservation information.
  3. Prepare your gear: Gather all the necessary camping equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Don't forget essentials like food, water, and a first aid kit.
  4. Travel to Vancouver Island: You can reach Vancouver Island by ferry from the mainland (Vancouver or Seattle) or by plane. Once on the island, rent a car or use public transportation to reach your chosen campsite.
  5. Set up camp: Upon arriving at your campsite, set up your tent and camping area. Be sure to follow any posted rules and guidelines for the specific campground or park.
  6. Enjoy your stay: Explore the beautiful surroundings, engage in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or kayaking, and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
  7. Practice Leave No Trace principles: When it's time to leave, clean up your campsite and pack out all trash. Leave the area as you found it, respecting the environment and wildlife.

For more information about camping on Vancouver Island, visit Hipcamp.

While wild camping is generally not allowed in most provincial parks on Vancouver Island, there are some opportunities for backcountry camping in designated campsites with proper permits and permissions. Some popular areas for backcountry camping on Vancouver Island include Strathcona Provincial Park, Cape Scott Provincial Park, and the West Coast Trail in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. It is essential to obtain the necessary permits, follow Leave No Trace principles, and respect the environment and wildlife.

Wild camping may be allowed on certain Crown land with permission. For more information about camping on Vancouver Island, visit the BC Parks website and the BC Recreation Sites and Trails website.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field