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.

89% (220) 17 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Vancouver Island

JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

1. JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

84%
(383)
Tofino, BC · 16 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 -Puna Food Truck offers apres-surf pocket food & coffee. South American style empanadas in sweet and savoury options. Rolled and baked in the house with organic flours. 8am-5pm - 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 - Kikan Food Truck is a modern eatery serving Asian soul food from 12pm-4pm Wednesday to Sunday 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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Ohana Farms

2. Ohana Farms

95%
(162)
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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theDoighouse Earthship

3. theDoighouse Earthship

98%
(280)
Qualicum Bay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship (Eco-Retreat) Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship, a peaceful eco-retreat nestled in the forest just minutes from the Qualicum Bay waterfront on Vancouver Island. 📍 Great Location on Vancouver Island Our spot is ideal for both adventurers and peace-seekers. Located about an hour north of Nanaimo, we’re a great stopover for guests traveling to or from the mainland, or heading to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing. Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive if skiing is on your itinerary. 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!) ⛺ Camping, RV Sites, and Cozy Tiny Cabins Stay your way: • Pitch a tent in our gardens • Park your RV at the forest’s edge • Relax in one of our cozy, tiny cabins 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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Humingbird Ranch

4. Humingbird Ranch

Saltspring Island, BC · 1 site
Wooded secluded South end property on Salt Spring Island. Garden, forest, patio, wood fire pit when allowed, propane fire pit other times. Bird song and frogs galore. BBQ, microwave, kettle. Private Outdoor heated shower and camp toilet provided. Electrical and WiFi on site. Lawn furniture picnic table and covered leasure area during rain.
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Surrounded by Nature!

5. Surrounded by Nature!

95%
(141)
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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Dashwood Meadows

6. Dashwood Meadows

98%
(239)
Qualicum Beach, BC · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

7. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

99%
(87)
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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Forest Hideaway

8. Forest Hideaway

99%
(89)
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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Sea Change Farm and Nursery

9. Sea Change Farm and Nursery

97%
(93)
Shirley, BC · 3 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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Murphy’s Farm

10. Murphy’s Farm

98%
(58)
Parksville, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
we are within a10-15 minute walk to Coombs famous Goats on the Roof market. 10 minute drive from the sandy beach’s of Parksville and lovely Qualicum.Beach Qualicum falls and Englishman River Falls. Many other attractions Our lovely grass area looks out over our paddock that contains 3 horses and a mini donkey. We also have 3 dogs and 3 cats Our dogs are friendly We have a 10 month old bernedoodle, a 4 year old mini Aussie Shepard and a 15 year old maltese shitz zhu We have a hot outdoor shower available and potable (limited) water (outdoor sink) A locked gate for your safety a fire pit with propane fire ( bring your own propane) and an quiet eating area Pets allowed on leash No Visitors Please
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Maple Tree

11. Maple Tree

96%
(26)
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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Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

12. Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

95%
(221)
Campbell River, BC · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
A beautiful campsite located in Campbell River, BC. Pastoral open field for RVs & tents. Easy access from the road and private secluded sites for single vehicles & tenters. We can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. Only a 2-minute walk to the beach and several trails. Shelter Point Distillery is just next door. Other activities near include wandering along oceanside trails, fishing for salmon, swimming, or simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying nature. The region is a mecca for outdoor and marine enthusiasts as it boasts 5 Provincial Parks, several marine parks, golf courses, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing hotspots galore. Explore the wilds of Strathcona Provincial Park, paddle the calm waters of the estuary, get out on the water for a thrilling whale-watching excursion and so much more. Pets welcome, campfires permitted according to BC Forest fire ban limits. 10 private sites available.
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Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

13. Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%
(117)
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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Island Gertie

14. Island Gertie

94%
(132)
Gabriola Island Trust Area, BC · 2 sites
The Gertie Bus is located a 5 min walk to a beautiful white sand beach (at low tide). There are walking trails all around and lots of beach access. Tucked into the front of our property in the quiet of Gabriola island you’ll find the converted Gertie bus with all the amenities you need. The bus has a gas stovetop/oven, bar fridge and sink with grey water system. Equipped kitchen and sofa area to hang out. The standard queen bed is great for sleeping in and relaxing with that second cup of coffee. Mountain biking, hiking, swimming and whale watching are just steps away. There is beach access across the street through a private park with picnic tables, a very old eagles nest and a private access to a rocky beach perfect for sunsets. The home itself has a pottery studio on the main floor with a full time studio Practice. Give Paige a ring if you’d like a tour, she’s usually working away. Our family lives on the top floor. Outside the bus is are lush veggie gardens, fruit trees and a nice private outdoor dining area. A BBQ and solar lights also help with evening hangouts. Family friendly! Also we love animals but we ask that you clean up after your pet and keep any animals that aren’t so great with kids and other animals on leash. We have a dachshund on the property that is friendly and old ( barks at strangers but is all bark I assure you, he just wants to be friends)
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weed canary farm

15. weed canary farm

100%
(55)
Courtenay, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Island Roost

16. Island Roost

100%
(15)
Mayne, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestle into the forest at the Island Roost. Tucked into the woods with convenient, walkable amenities, Island Roost offers guests a tranquil forest, wetland trails, and a central location on six of Mayne Island’s beautiful acres. 3 sites available - RV site with power and water hookup, forest tent site, and walk-in forest glade site (under construction). Shared outhouse and forest cold shower. Your base camp is only 15 minutes walking to the base of Mount Parke for excellent hiking, plus the local coffee truck, brewery, restaurant, bookstore, grocery store, liquor store, post office, library, water’s edge and float plane dock. 10 minutes driving gets you anywhere else on this tiny island with only 1300 year round residents. Small yet mighty, on Mayne you'll find lots of music, a summertime Saturday market and thrift store, artist studios, beautiful beaches, great hikes, and a place to slow the folk down. Because we love our island: • Strict fire ban in effect June 1-Oct 1. • A drought-prone island means we are careful with our use of water, especially in summer months. • Pack it in, pack it out - please take your garbage and recyclables with you for proper disposal.
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Tyee Valley Farm

17. Tyee Valley Farm

100%
(117)
Courtenay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us on our family farm. Our fourth year hosting, we continue to enjoy hosting travelers from all over. Come join us and relax in the forest. Site 1 and 2 are drive-in sites. Site 3 is a tent-only site. Our newest 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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Salmon Point on Nature Trail

18. Salmon Point on Nature Trail

98%
(78)
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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Pacific Ranch

19. Pacific Ranch

98%
(122)
Victoria, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
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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Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

20. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%
(91)
Black Creek, BC · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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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