The best camping in Bamberton Provincial Park, BC

On the western shores of the Saanich Inlet, Bamberton Provincial Park is known for its sandy beach, balmy waters, coral-hued arbutus trees, and spectacular views of the Saanich Peninsula and beyond to Mount Baker south of the border. The 225-metre beach is a haven for families with young children that also brims with intertidal life. Beachcombers will encounter an array of seaside life, from soaring eagles and osprey to curious seals, and even more natural wonder on the short and scenic ferry ride from nearby Mill Bay to Brentwood Bay, where world-renowned Butchart Gardens awaits.

1. With only 47 campsites, reservations during peak season (May to October) are highly recommended via the BC Parks online booking site, Discover Camping.
2. Reservations open in early spring, with weekends and most weekdays from June to August typically booking up first and fast, but for non-residents of BC, reservations start July 8.
3. Reservations can be booked within a two-month rolling window. Any arrival dates further than two months from the date of booking cannot be reserved.
4. Outside of the reservable season of May to October, sites are first-come, first-served (FCFS). Five sites remain FCFS throughout the year, but these fill early.

This seaside campground is open year-round on the sunny south shore of Vancouver Island, known for its mild winters. It’s especially popular during the summer and weekends as the park is close to BC’s capital, Victoria, and the Swartz Bay ferry terminal to Vancouver (with additional access across the Saanich Inlet from nearby Mill Bay to Brentwood Bay via BC Ferries). June is also busy with school groups beachcombing on field trips.

• Bamberton Provincial Park is open year-round (reservations are available during the peak season of May to October and otherwise all sites are first come, first served), but during the off season some amenities are unavailable (water taps are shut off).
• Some tent sites back onto a steep incline to the beach and may not be ideal for children, but the campground, day-use area, toilet facilities and paved access to the beach are all family-friendly and stroller/wheelchair accessible.
• The town of Mill Bay, with stores and dining options, is only a five-minute drive north, while BC’s capital, Victoria, is 30 minutes south.