Camping in Vancouver Island

Discover and book the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.

Camping in Vancouver Island

Mountains, beaches, and forests—Vancouver Island camping offers access to it all.

Top-rated stays

Drone shot looking North from up behind our Geo-Dome.
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Medicine Pharm Vancouver Island Bli
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Tofino, BCWe "Are Out There" in Rainforest Natural Beauty Near Tofino and Ucluelet Off-Grid Private, Quiet and Surrounded with Nature, A "A Unique and Rare Alternative" Location. Permaculture Food-Forest Paradise Transformation (Reclaimed and Regenerated Logging Claer-Cut) Funky Tiny Homes and Alternative Camp Sites Ideal for your Visit to Vancouver Islands West Coast if you want an "Authentic Rainforest Experience," in Nature Minus Sky-high Cost and Chaos associated with staying in the village.
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CA$44.88
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Quiet forests
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Tyee Valley Farm
3 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Courtenay, BCOwned by the family since 1937Learn more about this land:Come join us in the forested tranquillity of our family farm. We are currently under construction but have availability starting May 2022.These private sites will welcome you to recharge in nature. Each site is provided with a flat gravel pad suitable for smaller campers including truck camper, rooftop tent, camper vans and similar. Small trailers up to 20 feet may be usable, but access is tight. Easy access to Mt Washington and Strathcona Park, local beaches, rivers and more.
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CA$19
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So Damn Lucky Glamping
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So Damn Lucky Glamping
8 sites · Lodging9 acres · Tofino, BCWe’re so damn lucky to have made Vancouver Island our home for more than 30 years, revelling in its natural beauty while raising our family and, until recently, running a successful restaurant for over 20 years in the Comox Valley.Over the years, we’ve enjoyed seeking out fun and adventure all over Vancouver Island – from kayaking and mountain biking to skiing and hiking. As recently retired restaurateurs, we still have a desire to share our passions for food, friends and outdoor fun, so we’ve come up with a new venture that allows us to do just that: So Damn Lucky Glamping.Following the sale of our restaurant, we undertook extensive renovations to our Comox home. Living in the Comox Valley is such a privilege – so many outdoor adventures to be had.In recent years we’ve been fortunate enough to spend our summers enjoying the spectacular surroundings of Mussel Beach, Ucluelet (near Tofino). Living in a cozy, renovated trailer (our tiny home), perched on the ocean’s edge, we’ve come to love our little piece of paradise among the wild rainforests of the Pacific Rim. We are so damn lucky we met Lori and Curtis (Mussel Beach) and we are able to do what we do. We want to share this little piece of paradise.Perfect for anyone (singles, couples, families) looking to get away from it all, we know you’ll enjoy every minute of your time here!We love where we live and we love that we can share our enthusiasm for Vancouver Island with you!
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CA$200
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JX Campground (Ucluelet)
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JX Campground (Ucluelet)
17 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Tofino, BCWelcome to JX 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. (Overnight parking is not suitable for RVs or vans longer than 15ft.) Looking for something to do? We share a property with other great businesses! -JX by Relic Surf Shop has rentals and can also book surf lessons for you! -TickinTBird rents Ebikes, the bike path here goes all the way into town -Big Wave food truck has breakfast and coffee 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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CA$30
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Flower Beds Farm
Flower Beds Farm
5 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Qualicum Beach, BCCome enjoy a stay at our funky little farm near Qualicum Beach, BC. Enjoy full hook-ups and a durable blue chip gravel-capped pad with access to flushing toilets, hot showers, wifi and paid laundry. Immerse yourself in a beautiful natural surrounding on our seasonal flower farm. Our sweet ducks and chickens provide eggs for purchase. Close highway access and minutes from Spider & Horne Lakes make day trips a breeze. Book now for a peaceful or adventurous vacation.
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CA$50
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The cabin, currently under construction, but very close to completion.
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theDoighouse Earthship
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, BCIn your wildest dreams can you imagine a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans and concrete? Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship nestled in the forest just a 5 minute walk from Qualicum Bay. We are centrally located mid Vancouver Island, 20 minutes to the Old Country Market - Goats on the Roof, less than 30 minutes from Horne Lake Caves, or a 2.5 hr drive to Tofino and world class surfing. There is lots of activities in our area, including beaches, lakes and hiking. Join us Wednesdays in July and August for a drop-in gentle, mindful, and restorative yoga session in our beautiful gardens. Led by our wonderful yogi Lindsay, a true embodiment of grace. No prior experience, you are perfect just as you are. Come and unwind in nature. You can pitch a tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff! We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events. On arrival you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily. 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. It is love for the planet, people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive. Come visit, tour, and stay.
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CA$25
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The Otherside Cabins
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The Otherside Cabins
3 sites · Lodging4 acres · Dunsmuir, BCEscape to our large 4 acre property in Qualicum Bay and experience the serenity of staying in one of our lovingly hand built log cabins. Nestled amongst huge cedar trees and perched next to a babbling creek, the cabins are a gateway to endless outdoor adventures and just a 45 minute drive to Mount Washington. A perfect setting to immerse yourself in nature, kick your feet up and relax by a fire.
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CA$139
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The perfect spot to set up the trailer!
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Rusty Gate Berry Farm
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Powell River, BC
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CA$40
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The mother goat, coming to say hello.
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Goats and Boats
2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Parksville, BCWelcome to Goats and Boats, 40 acres of poplar trees planted in straight(ish) rows about 25 years ago. Since then the alders and the evergreens have started to join the party in a big way. The property is a work in progress with a little more space opened up each year. We have some grassy areas for tents and RVs. Pets are welcome. We are on a gravel road about 2 km from the popular Coombs market (with goats on the roof!). We are a young professional couple with 4 very friendly Nigerian dwarf goats, some roosters and some ducks. The number of animals may change at any time so ask us before booking if it's important to you. Rabbits run around the yard daily. Deer show up occasionally. As you can see in the photos, our yard is not a manicured park but we do try to take good care of it and we hope you will too. There are a lot of activities in the area including go-karts, hiking in provincial parks (Englishman River Falls Parks, Qualicum River Falls Park). Mt Arrowsmith is a challenging hike about 30 minutes drive away. Cathedral Grove is about 20 minutes away.
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CA$40
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3 sisters ranch
3 sisters ranch
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Parksville, BCClose to all the amenities the Oceanside area of Vancouver Island has offered. Quick access to Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, The amazing beaches of. Qualicum. Parksville and Rathtrevor 15 and 10 minutes away. 1:45 minutes to Tofino and our amazingly rugged and world renowned West Coast experience surfing amazing scenery. Epic Mountain biking at your doorstep. DH At Hamerfest is a 10 minute drive or a 45 minute pedal away cross country. Fine dining and all amenities including urgent care after riding is only 10 minutes away. Great hub to experience Vancouver Island from.
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CA$27
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Ruby Lake Resort
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Ruby Lake Resort
7 sites · Lodging85 acres · Powell River, BCOur property is an outdoor-enthusiasts haven, surrounded by walking, hiking & cycling trails, one of BC's most beautiful lakes for swimming, and paddling, with onsite boat & board rentals as well as a private dock, seasonal onsite yoga classes, and a mountain biker's pump track. 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), beavers, otters, deer, raccoons, squirrels, and more! Our renowned onsite restaurant offers authentic northern Italian cuisine, with both indoor lake-view dining, as well as outdoor seating on our covered waterfront patio.
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CA$156
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Beautiful glamping tent on a large deck in the woods with covered outdoor kitchen area
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Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat
11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Halfmoon Bay, BCWe 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 a wide assortment of intriguing tiny homes. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabin, glamping tent, and new additions, like our luxury tent trailer, bell tent, and furnished campsites in the forest. Our property is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond, our new small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails on our property, 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 10 years.
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CA$60
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Outdoor stays for every style

Find your new favourite spot.

Value Prop
Value Prop

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.

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.

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