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% (292) 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Vancouver Island

JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

1. JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

84%
(487)
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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theDoighouse Earthship

2. theDoighouse Earthship

99%
(350)
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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Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

3. Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

95%
(311)
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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Ohana Farms

4. Ohana Farms

96%
(199)
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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Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

5. Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

100%
(128)
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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Dashwood Meadows

6. Dashwood Meadows

98%
(263)
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, donkey, chickens, dog and cat. We grow berries, plums, cherries, nuts and wildflowers. Children, pets 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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Murphy’s Farm

7. Murphy’s Farm

97%
(96)
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 We are on route to Port Alberni and Tofino Our lovely grass area looks out over our paddock that contains 3 horses and 2 mini donkeys We also have 3 dogs and 2 cats Our dogs are friendly We have a 2 year old bernedoodle, a 5 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 large propane tank) and an quiet eating area Pets allowed on leash No Visitors Please One vehicle per site unless previous arrangements made
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Surrounded by Nature!

8. Surrounded by Nature!

95%
(162)
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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Tyee Valley Farm - Private Forest Sites in the Comox Valley

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

100%
(190)
Courtenay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us on our family farm in Merville, the heart of the Comox Valley. 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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Terravita Brentwood Bay

10. Terravita Brentwood Bay

99%
(42)
Brentwood Bay, BC · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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 three 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. - Pacific Dogwood (Drive-in RV/Van Site): Built specifically for slide-in campers, truck toppers, rooftop tents, and cargo vans. Includes a 15-amp power hookup and picnic table. Note: Not suitable for ground tents. 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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Maple Tree

11. Maple Tree

98%
(64)
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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Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

12. Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

98%
(125)
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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Duck Creek Farm

13. Duck Creek Farm

97%
(47)
Salt Spring Island, BC · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
This farm offers a WALK IN camping area, just a minute walk in to a private meadow. You cannot drive your vehicle to the campsite. There may be room in our driveway to park and sleep in your vehicle, but I cannot guarantee that, depending on what guests are driving. Duck Creek Farm stands as a family-operated organic farm nestled on Salt Spring Island. Spanning over an acre, our grounds boast a thriving market garden comprising five greenhouses, small orchard clusters with 75 fruit trees total, a yoga platform, swimming pond, and a charming farmhouse. This idyllic retreat offers a serene oasis where nature flourishes. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of eagles, owls, herons, otters, beavers, salmon, and more. The meandering Duck Creek traverses the property, creating a natural habitat for an array of creatures. Operating as a high-production garden, our dedicated staff is on-site Monday through Friday. Despite our productivity, we employ manual methods, ensuring a tranquil ambiance for our guests. In addition to our agricultural pursuits, Duck Creek Farm is an ideal venue for weddings and various events. For a comprehensive overview, please visit our website. Discover the perfect blend of nature, sustainability, and rustic charm at Duck Creek Farm! Parking for the tipi is 80 - 100' from the tipi. An outdoor sink is about 45' from the tipi, the outhouse is a 2-3 minute walk through the meadow.
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Island Oasis

14. Island Oasis

100%
(20)
Qualicum Beach, BC · 2 sites
Escape to your own private slice of paradise at Island Oasis, a peaceful retreat nestled in the natural beauty of British Columbia. Surrounded by lush landscapes and calming island scenery, this getaway is perfect for those looking to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a slower pace of life. Spend your days exploring nearby trails, relaxing in the fresh island air, or simply taking in the serene surroundings. Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning coffee or watching the sunset over the water, Island Oasis offers a truly restorative escape. Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and nature lovers, this tranquil hideaway provides a comfortable and relaxing base to experience the best of island living in British Columbia.
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Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

15. Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%
(132)
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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Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

16. Maple Heart Ranch - Homestead

90%
(138)
Shawnigan Lake, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Are you looking for a secluded camping experience with a lot of privacy? Bring your tent and stay at one of our wilderness campsites. Our basic Campsites have picnic tables, fire pits and an outhouse close by. And if you want, you can explore the farm and all our animals or one of the many hiking trails close by. Firewood is available for a charge.Our property is located in Shawnigan Lake, BC on Vancouver Island. The area is renowned for its rugged beauty and its 7-kilometre long lake that provides the opportunity for fishing, swimming and sunbathing in the summer.Nearby is the recently restored Kinsol Trestle named for the short-lived “King Solomon Mine”. Restored in 2011, it is an engineering feat, even by today’s standards and remains one of the loftiest wooden railway trestles in the world.We look forward to hosting you!
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Portal Retreat

17. Portal Retreat

98%
(72)
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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Come & stay at Nuttal bay

18. Come & stay at Nuttal bay

100%
(31)
Nanoose Bay, BC · 1 site
We are located 45 mins from Duke Point Ferry terminal, and 1/2 hour from Departure Bay. Parksville is 10 min drive and Tofino/Ucluelet is a 2 hour drive. Nuttal Bay is 5 min walk from our location as well as Moorecroft Provincial Park.
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Mountainaire Campground and RV Park

19. Mountainaire Campground and RV Park

85%
(41)
Nanaimo, BC · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled on a beautiful 40-acre park, our Campground and RV Park provides a relaxed, natural atmosphere perfect for family fun. Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver Island, just beside the Nanaimo airport (a 5-minute drive) and approximately 20 minutes by car from both ferry terminals connecting to Vancouver. Featuring 30 and 50 amp fully or partial-serviced sites, ample green spaces, and cozy on-site RV Glamping units and cabins tucked away in the woods, Mountainaire is your ideal starting point or departure spot for a Vancouver Island vacation. Enjoy our newly renovated bathrooms, warm showers, and on-site laundromat, along with the added convenience of an onsite store. Take a short hike through the rainforest to the breathtaking Crystal Bowl for activities like river swimming, cliff diving, kayaking, or even crayfish catching with your little ones. Young campers can bike down ramps, play in the playground, and witness the fascinating transformation of tadpoles into western toads (a species at risk). Don’t miss our renowned special events and unwind with a Friday night movie accompanied by free popcorn. PARK AMENITIES: Lots of mature trees, green space and ramps. Bring your bikes. Outdoor playground with loads of fun Convenience store and Arcade Washroom and showers Laundry room Rainforest trail to the Crystal Bowl of Nanaimo River Pond Horseshoe pits Beach volleyball court Outdoor stage Secure property, gate locked at 10:00pm
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Raysong Cabin and Camp Sites

20. Raysong Cabin and Camp Sites

97%
(16)
Qualicum Beach, BC · 4 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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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