The best camping in Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, BC

·
100% (1)

Discover the historic allure of Fort Rodd Hill and its iconic lighthouse.  

The best camping in Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, BC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Prospect Lake View

2. Prospect Lake View

90%
(39)
9.6km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV · Victoria, BC
The property is 1.5 acres in total set amidst rural surroundings. It is a very quiet and peaceful community set on the shores of the lake and surrounded by magnificent trees and greenery. There is limited bus service about a 20 minute walk away so a car is recommended. We are about a 25 minute drive away from Sidney, where most people will arrive by plane or ferry from the mainland, and also about 25 minutes away from downtown Victoria. The driveway from the street up to the front of our house is a paved sloped driveway and from there the access to the camping site is a sloped and curving dirt road. You don’t need a four-wheel-drive to get up it. We just want to be sure you are aware. The area itself is a level piece of ground to the side of our house. It is approximately 30 ' X 30 ', big enough for a small camper van and a tent. Please note it’s not a camping space like you would find in a provincial park. There’s no picnic bench or fire pit. In any case open flames are not allowed. Portable propane powered camping stoves are fine. We can supply a couple of plastic chairs and a small cocktail sized table. The facilities are comprised of a toilet in a small room in our basement and a utility sink just outside, accessed through the sunroom and down the back stairs. Pets are welcome, but must be on a leash or otherwise kept under control and not allowed to run loose. We have three cats ourselves, and they have access to the sunroom. We are just letting you know in case you are allergic. Also, we might occasionally sit in the sunroom ourselves and we don't mind you passing through on your way to and from the facilities, if you don't mind us being in there on occasion. There is no bath or shower available. You are advised to bring your own face and/or hand towels if needed. You also need to be prepared to take away your own recycling, garbage and organics.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night
All set up!

3. Surrounded by Nature!

95%
(136)
12km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 3 sites · RVs · Victoria, BC
**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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night
Breakfast coming along.

4. Pacific Ranch

97%
(119)
13km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Victoria, BC
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 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 26 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. Pets are welcome!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
CA$50
 / night
Woodlands Rd Campsite

5. Woodlands Rd Campsite

100%
(43)
17km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent · Sooke, BC
This is a 5 acre property with multiple houses. I built a campsite that is about 200ft from the house, so it is close, but private. Sea to Sea regional park is one block away for amazing hiking and mountain biking opportunities. This site is a decent size, but a tight turn into it. We have gotten a tent trailer in there...it was a just tight! Black-Bears are on property year-round. www.bearwise.org please secure all attractants. Porta Potti Rental is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. It's available for a flat 15$ fee. Please empty and clean it when finished. There is a sani dump at the back of the near-by RV. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f163Lei3-oA&t=152 Site contains a picnic table and fire pit (if no fire ban in effect). If needed, we can provide Electricity via extension cord. Drinking water tap on site . No loud music that can be heard outside the campsite, all garbage must be cleaned up and packed out on check out, fire must not be larger than fire ring and is subject to provincial fire bans. ONLY FRIENDLY PETS WELCOME! We have a couple of dogs and children free-ranging on our property.
Pets
Potable water
from 
CA$28
 / night
West Coast Retreat at Anneth Farm

7. West Coast Retreat at Anneth Farm

97%
(30)
23km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 9 sites · Tents · North Saanich, BC
Welcome to our secluded little farm paradise. We are located on the west side of the W̱SÁNEĆ Peninsula on the main drive, West Saanich Road. Close to the beaches Coles Bay and Patricia Bay and a 12-minute drive to Sidney and the village of Brentwood Bay. We have 3 accommodations offerings here on HipCamp: (1) Tent camping in the fenced forest meadow (2) Car camping at selected sites around the farm (3) The Barn Loft private guest suite {1. The Camping Meadow} The meadow is a 1/2 acre fully-fenced, flat forest dell. There is a water spigot and an electrical outlet. It can host up to 3 tents. It is tent camping only - no vehicles allowed in the meadow. West Saanich Road can be a bit loud at night in the summer. If you have sensitive hearing, we encourage earplugs and/or camping at the farthest west end of the meadow. {2. Car Camping} The Cedar Grove is a private camp site with room for a regular vehicle (not an RV) and a tent. It is our only spot where you may camp next to your vehicle. {3. The Barn Loft Guest Suite} The Barn Loft Guest Suite is a beautiful restored hay loft with a double bed, a pull-out sofa, a kitchenette, and a living room and dining area. It is equipped with a composting toilet. Those staying at the Loft can also use the shared farm washroom. {Shared Washroom} The washroom is the shared washroom inside the farmhouse on the ground/basement floor, with a flush toilet and luxury shower. It is a short walk from the camping meadow, inside the heritage farmhouse. Please note that while inside the farmhouse basement, only the washroom is available for public use. Entering other areas of the basement is prohibited, as these are private living spaces. {Farm Fun} We have five horses, a tiny pony, chickens, a few goats and a flock of sheep. You are welcome to respectfully meet the animals with us - it is not permitted to meet the animals without a guide. DM us if you want to say hi to the animals and we will arrange a time. Please understand, there are safety protocols that need to be followed around horses. Eggs and lamb meat are also available for sale. DM us to order. Enjoy your stay on our beautiful west coast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$33
 / night
Sea Change Farm and Nursery

8. Sea Change Farm and Nursery

97%
(90)
34km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Shirley, BC
💚💜Enjoy the simple wild private campsites with gravel pads, on the edge of a creek ravine with second growth forest, and the regeneration of the 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. No shortage of sights to take in here on the west Coast of Vancouver island. For more information look in our descriptions.♥️
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$46
 / night
Camping Historic Kinsol   Trestle

9. Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%
(62)
35km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Duncan, BC
Learn more about this land:Enjoy camping on our quiet and peaceful campsite located in Cowichan Valley BC on Vancouver Island! We welcome campers with tents or camper vans (maximum vehicle length= 25ft). Much of the property is treed with second-growth cedar, hemlock and some fir trees. Our property is designed for you to unwind and relax. We have an outhouse available for campers to use as well as a hand pump for water. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore; Kinsol Trestle is close to our property. Hikers will love the proximity to the Mount Tzouhalem Kaspa Trailhead, and mountain bikers will find this a great location for their sport. For those looking for a more relaxing vacation, unwind in the surrounding gardens and take in the beautiful views.  We are 15 minutes to the closest town where you can stock up on all essentials! Great for families looking to get outside and enjoy nature at its finest. We look forward to hosting you!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
View from South side of pond

12. Red Bell Farm

98%
(255)
46km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Duncan, BC
Access the Cowichan Valley Trail system right from our back yard! Easy access to either enjoy a leisurely walk, hike, bicycle, or horse ride along the trail to many destinations including Lake Cowichan, Shawinigan Lake, Duncan & more... or simply take in the beauty of the private pond area and picnic for the day with access to our Kitchenette with many extras! This is peaceful enjoyable tenting at its finest We have 4 pond tent sites, 1 RV site is situated away from the pond, and 1 camper-van site within a few steps to the pond for visiting your tenting friends; there is a shared outhouse, municipal water, fire-pit, and kitchenette a relaxing sitting area. Enjoy seeing what’s available at our small working hobby farm which includes eggs, chickens, and fresh berries, fruits, vegetables. 15min. to Lake Cowichan or travel 5min. to Duncan, Saturday is Farmers Market all year round and entertainment. Check out the "Duncan Showroom" or other venues for nightly live entertainment! Explore the many side streets for unique stores & food that is unique to Duncan. Did you know Duncan has 40 totem poles to find throughout the town? Visit local wineries, breweries, distilleries, Raptors bird Sanctuary, Hand of Man Museum, or many other sights! We’re also an easy drive away from Ladysmith, Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay (warmest ocean water on the island), or look for one of the largest Trestle bridges in North America... Just provide us with an idea of what you'd like to see and we can help with your adventure! Only 1hr from Victoria or Nanaimo.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$38
 / night
Forest Hideaway

13. Forest Hideaway

99%
(82)
46km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV · Duncan, BC
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.)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$41
 / night
Island Roost

14. Island Roost

100%
(11)
47km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Mayne, BC
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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$28
 / night
Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

15. Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

100%
(16)
48km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 2 sites · Lodging · Mayne Island Trust Area, BC
Available all year round! Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks.It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling -  along with modern conveniences.   It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family.  The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach.Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home.Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town.We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!Learn more about this land:Available all year round!  Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks. It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling -  along with modern conveniences.   It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family.   The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach. Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home. Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town. We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$105
 / night
main camping area

17. Duck Creek Farm

96%
(25)
51km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Salt Spring Island, BC
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 three greenhouses and a 65-ft hoop house, along with 75 fruit trees, a yoga platform, a refreshing swimming pond, and a charming vintage 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$45
 / night
Rod and Joyce have a beautiful garden at the front end of the property

18. Decourcy Meadows

99%
(78)
76km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 1 site · RV · Ladysmith, BC
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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
CA$30
 / night
Shirewoods Farm

19. Shirewoods Farm

100%
(13)
79km from Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site · 3 sites · Lodging · Nanaimo, BC
Welcome to Shirewoods Farm! Unwind from the hustle of city life with a refreshing escape to the countryside. Shirewoods Farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature, breathe deeply, and experience the rhythms of farm life firsthand. Our unique glamping stays let you relax in comfort, surrounded by fields, forests, and friendly farm vibes. Shirewoods is a working farm with goats, sheep, horses, pigs, ducks and chickens. Join us for a guided Farm Tour for a chance to meet the animals, and learn about our sustainability practices—including feeding livestock with rescued produce and brewery grain. For outdoor adventures, explore the 11 km of scenic trails next door in Hemer Provincial Park, or venture out to one of the 70+ hiking spots in the Nanaimo area. You’re also just minutes from WildPlay Nanaimo (zip lines, axe throwing, ropes courses) and the refreshing Nanaimo River swimming hole. Only 11 minutes drive to the Duke Point Ferry terminal. Come experience the charm of the farm, naturally.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$90
 / night
100% (1)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site adventure.

Camper favorites near Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Other options near Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

The best camping in Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, BC guide

Overview

About

Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th century buildings at Fort Rodd Hill, a west coast artillery fortress on active duty from 1895 to 1956. Be touched by the personal stories of soldiers and their families. Camp overnight in a group-friendly oTENTik. Grab the wheel as a “master mariner” at Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest on the Canadian west coast, and wander through a rare Garry Oak meadow.

When to go

The best time to visit Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site is from May 1 to October 15, when the historic buildings are open daily and the grounds invite exploration from 10am to 5pm. Winter offers a serene atmosphere for storm watching, though some facilities are only available on weekends.

Know before you go

  • Check for area closures due to construction before planning your visit.
  • Accessibility is a priority, but some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
  • Visitor facilities, including washrooms, are available year-round.
  • Admission is free for youth, making it a family-friendly destination.
  • Remember to respect the site's natural and historical significance during your visit.

100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews

Top points of interest near Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Top cities near Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site