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Cowichan River Provincial Park

The best camping in Cowichan River Provincial Park, BC

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Stories from the community

Betsy

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Poplar Grove Family Farm

Peaceful and private, Lisa was very attentive and quick to respond to messages

Julie

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Surrounded by Nature!

Matt and Jody share a piece of their lovely property steps away from Elk Lake park. Such a quiet, peaceful spot. So convenient to Victoria and the Saanich peninsula. We’ll be returning!

Ella

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Poplar Grove Family Farm

A nice private spot! Far away from main roads that there was minimal noise, but still close to town

Teejay

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Bell Farm

Stayed at Red Bell Farm and it was pure magic. The private peaceful campsite felt like our own slice of serenity, just a short drive from everyday amenities, with wildlife spotting around every corner and trails begging to be explored straight from the back. An unforgettable escape, all thanks to Gary for opening up such incredible land. Pure joy fireside by the pond, plus a simply equipped shared kitchen that made everything easy. Grateful beyond words, a Hipcamp gem for sure!

Jenna

October 2025

2 nights at Shirewoods Farm

Beautiful scenery, wonderful host. Very accommodating.

Carla

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Surrounded by Nature!

Located just a walk away from elk lake and a wonderful walk in nature:-)

Some of the ducks enjoying their pond; sadly a bit skittish.

Melissa

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sea Change Farm and Nursery

The two sites at the farm are very private. There was so much to look at - ravens, rabbits, deer, and ducks on the pond. We fit two cars and two tents comfortably at elderberry. The hosts were great and very responsive to our questions. We can't wait to visit again!

Zach

October 2025

3 nights at Secluded Forest Oasis, Maple Bay BC

Great time, great property and a great host. I’d highly recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful secluded place to stay. Very convenient location that is close to lots of mountain biking and good restaurants, breweries and wineries. Steven, the host is a very nice guy and super helpful and easy to work with.

Ian

October 2025

27 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Decourcy Meadows

Great, private, clean and lots of trails. And great hosts. Dogs had a blast.

Juliet

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Thank you Rejeanne - we had another wonderful peaceful stay on your property! What stood out for us was the quiet, the bird and frog calls, and waking up to the sunshine through the forest. Looking forward to our next visit :-)

Michael

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Come & stay at Nuttal bay

Paul was communicative and hospitable. The camp area was spacious and was perfect for our stay. Coffee on the beach close by was lovely. A great place to stay!

A fire pit and firewood are provided. What a great perk!

Amanda

September 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Decourcy Meadows

We enjoyed Decourcy Meadows place so much that we went back for a second stay at the end of our trip. Once again, everything was great! Rod and his wife were super accommodating. If you are looking for a quiet place with full hookups this should be on your list of places to check out!

Marshall

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Sanctuary Cabin

Stayed three nights for my partner's birthday long weekend! We had Christian's property all to ourselves for most of the stay, which definitely contributed to the zen vibes we were hoping for. It's nice to be able to spend so much time "doing nothing" without a sense of guilt, haha. We brought a bluetooth speaker, but only used it on a couple occasions (when cooking). The opportunity for silence and stillness can be a rare thing. The cabin is not fully finished but it has everything one could hope for. Bed and sofas are on wheels so a good chance for your closet interior decorator to shine. I recommend bringing headlamps or at least external batteries for your phone torch for convenience at night (we brought board games). The wood stove is easy to manage once you get the ropes, and Christian does a good job of teaching. We were toasty throughout our stay (evenings around 10C or so), but it doesn't hurt to bring extra for your sleep, when managing the fire might be harder. The kitchen is well equipped and we had a blast grilling up steaks. No issues with the outhouse. We didn't get enough sun for the solar showers but it's a neat setup. Overall a wonderful stay. Beautiful piece of property and it's clear how much care Christian has put into it- and continues to. Honestly hard to say how different our stay would be with others camping nearby, but the experience we got was very memorable.

Simon

September 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Ohana Farms

We loved our camping experience on Aaron’s farm. There’s so much space and a bunch of nice clean outhouses. Conveniently close walk to the Pender Island “downtown” area. Had the most relaxing time.

Anne

September 2025

Tent

4 nights at Ohana Farms

The entire experience was exactly what I needed. Peaceful, beautiful, intriguing, creative, friendly host, a loo, potable water, close to "town" and also central for all my exploring by bike/foot on this incredible island. I will definitely be back.

Jim

September 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Surrounded by Nature!

Jody's place was exactly as advertised. Close to Victoria with a feel of remoteness.

Rose

September 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

Quiet, getaway with the view of stars each night. Open fire pits and cosy log burner in the tent for the cooler nights. The beds were super comfortable with high grade thread sheets. It was a wonderful experience and we would do it again.

Sandeep

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valinore Glamping

Great location; I loved it. Will go again. The communication from the host was clear and helpful.

Goldbard

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Red Bell Farm

What a beautiful, peaceful, magical place. Loved it and will be back again.

John

September 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Decourcy Meadows

Wonderful stay at The Meadow. Nicely equipped and private RV site backed by huge trees. Short walk to the ocean and quick drives to two very nice pubs, The Crow and Gate being spectacular.

Top-rated campgrounds

Decourcy Meadows

99%

(78)

35km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 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.

Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

76%

(249)

65km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tsawwassen, BC

Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat. “Imagine if you will, the setting sun, orange, huge, resting atop the Gulf Islands. The breeze is blowing inland today, bringing along scents of salt air, and all is well. A bald eagle glides overhead, nearly close enough to catch you up to soaring heights. Even before the sun falls out of the sky the luminescent moon rises opposite. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is located in sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ Tsawwassen First Nation Traditional Territory. Conveniently located just minutes from the BC Ferries, easily accessible for travellers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat are Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, and Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded by 6 beaches, one of which you can windsurf. There are many other amenities nearby for your added convivence. Bordered by the Fraser River to the north; Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank and the United States border to the south; and the Salish Sea to the west. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on oceanfront property, to gather with friends, family, and groups, or a beautiful quiet getaway by yourself to recharge. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat also offers space for *Retreats *Weddings *Festivals *Birthdays* Holiday Parties* Corporate Parties* Receptions* Business Meetings* Bridal Showers *Family Events * Engagement Parties * Anniversary (inquire for more details, pricing etc.) The Glamping Tents are located on a large wooden deck, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and carefully selected decor to create an ambience of tranquillity. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of the tent. You can unwind and reconnect with nature while indulging in the modern amenities and conveniences we've thoughtfully incorporated into every aspect of your stay. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath an eagle’s nest, that you can view from the luxury and privacy of your own glamping tent. There is a nearby wooden boardwalk that takes you to the beautiful beachfront where you can have picnics, bike rides, paddle boarding, bird watching, nature photography, and some breathtaking sunsets. Book your stay with us today and embark on a remarkable retreat that will leave you refreshed, renewed, and forever transformed. Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat, your gateway to tranquillity and personal growth.

Forest Sanctuary Cabin

100%

(49)

76km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

Experience a cute little off grid cabin in the beautiful forest setting of Forest Sanctuary Campground in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast, BC. This 350 sq ft simple cabin has a private camping kitchen, wood stove, a futon bed for 2, a couch, small dining table and ambient night time candle and solar lighting. The cabin is situated in the midst of a beautifully landscaped forest setting. The cabin is off grid and does not have electricity. I provide free firewood for the wood stove. Lighting at night is by mellow solar lighting and candlelights. Your bathroom is an open air outhouse nearby. Solar showers are provided in a private forest setting. There may be tent campers on the campground in the vicinity. Please note I am two kms up a well maintained private gravel road. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Mi Casa Es Su Casa

41km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nanaimo, BC

This home is close to spring beach, we have stand up paddle, 2 kids kayaks, one double kayak. The house is turning into a guest house and camp ground for the summer. BBQ picknik table family and pet friendly. Gabriola is surrounded by beaches and trails. So many things to do. There are drawings on the walls from my kids and cats scratches on door frames, it’s family life here.

Forest Sanctuary

99%

(110)

76km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 6 sites · Tents · Roberts Creek, BC

Hi. My name is Christian and welcome to my beautiful Forest Sanctuary on the slopes of Mt. Elphinstone in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast. My property is a magical private nature retreat created in the spirit of love and reverence for the land on which it is built. It is a sanctuary to nurture the body, mind and spirit. A place to come back to One's Self. I have taken a piece of forest and transformed it into a Premium camping experience with pastures, terraces, pathways, a pond and island, level campsites with grass and sand and a communal outdoor pavilion lounge with fully stocked kitchen at your disposal. A large communal campfire is available. I have solar showers too. This is a magnificent place to bring the kids, a wonderful place to hang with friends and family, a peaceful place for lovers and a great place to come on your own to remember how awesome and talented you really are. I can accommodate larger groups, workshops and parties. Ask me about renting the entire site for private gatherings. Please note, these are walk-in campsites. Park and make a short walk to your beautiful campsite. One large grass pasture is available upon request for campervan and RV camping. My fully stocked pavilion, kitchen and lounge has all the cookware, dishware and utensils needed to prepare your meal. There is also a BBQ and Coleman stove with propane provided. Drinking water is provided. Firewood is free when campfires are permitted. For bathing I have a solar shower and a little aquifer-fed pond for clean, cold water dips. If you want something a little fancier I have a great little off-grid camping cabin which rents for $150/night. You can ask me about it. My campsite is located in Roberts Creek, British Columbia. Roberts Creek is a peaceful, eclectic, rural community seated between Gibsons and Sechelt, and possesses a stunning blend of beaches, forest, and some of the friendliest people you will come across. A relaxing atmosphere awaits you here, where both your artistic and outdoor adventure self is sure to feel at home. Please note I am two kms up a well maintained private gravel road. 2 wheel drive vehicles are ok.

Natures Way Yurt & Spa

100%

(3)

49km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Victoria, BC

Nature Oasis on 4 acres just outside of Victoria, BC. Stay in our luxuriously cozy yurt, heated by wood stove and equipped with a custom-made, queen sized wild foraged wooden bed. Enjoy the outdoor nature shower, as well as the pond, ducks, birds and occasional deer, nestled in a sunny valley surrounded by towering trees and acres of forest. Beautiful beaches are a 10 minute drive away, and forest walks/lakes within a 5 minute drive. Or stay-in, and book to use our Nature Spa. Just down the path from the Yurt you'll find a wood-fired cedar hot tub and cedar barrel sauna, cold plunge zone, as well as lounge space with picnic table and fire pit.

Surrounded by Nature!

95%

(135)

44km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 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.

Valinore Glamping

97%

(30)

66km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Parksville, BC

Valinore is a beautifully forested 4 acre property. Tucked away and private, but close enough to adventure such as beaches, rivers, lakes as well as markets, restaurants and much more. Our yurts are comfortable and cozy. The site is rustic but contains everything you need for a relaxing and refreshing stay. The location is a few kilometres off of Alberni Hwy and a short drive away from beaches, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, Goats on the Roof, and many hiking and biking trails. The site is also within biking distance to some trails. The Errington Farmers market is a walk or bike ride away. And only a short car ride away are several other nearby markets including Goats on the Roof and the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market.

Poplar Grove Family Farm

97%

(51)

74km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Qualicum Beach, BC

Welcome to our secluded and peaceful camping spot nestled on our 10-acre family property, formerly a Poplar Plantation. Located just 1 minute from Alberni Highway in Qualicum Beach, our site offers over 1 km of trails to explore, with the opportunity to wander through lavender or sunflower fields depending on the season. Bring the kids to explore and find more than 40 fairy houses along the trails. Dogs are free to roam off leash. Off Season Nov 1 -March 1 receive a $10 a day discount please message We provide 50 amp and separate 30 amp hookups, filtered potable water, and a grey water dump (no black water) along with dedicated site Wi-Fi access. Your trailer or RV can enjoy a spacious 50 x 15 area, with room for one additional vehicle and multiple tents on grass. We also provide a picnic table for your convenience. Additional options include: Propane fire pit or full-size BBQ rental ($5 per day including propane) Large tote of pre split firewood $10 SUP or kayak rental with deposit (please inquire) Mountain bike rental with deposit (please inquire) PMBIA certified instructor available for guiding at Hammerfest or Cumberland trails (please inquire) Enjoy the convenience of being just 10 minutes away from the ocean in beautiful Qualicum Beach, as well as 10 minutes from Little Qualicum Provincial Park or Cameron Lake. Additionally, you're only 5 minutes away from the world-famous Goats on the Roof in Coombs. Our location also serves as a great stopping point on your trip to Tofino, just 1 minute off the Alberni Hwy.

Moon Gate Farms

100%

(132)

78km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Roberts Creek, BC

We are currently undergoing renovations and will be closed until finished. Moon Gate Farms offers an unique glamping and camping experience in Roberts Creek, BC. Please note we have strict quiet times from 9pm to 8am. The property is just a 10-minute drive from beaches, restaurants, and hiking trails. Moon Gate farms is an ideal getaway for a nature experience and perfect for mountain walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, or couples looking to escape into the wilderness. Communal outdoor kitchen with camp stove, prep tables, toaster, microwave, are provided. Hot outdoor showers and flushing toilets. Friendly canine campers are also invited. We have two resident Bernese mountain x black retriever dogs who love to bark when campers arrive! They are friendly and settle quickly when told to sit and chill. The best way to get directions is to use Google Maps and follow directions to Moon Gate Farms in Roberts Creek. We are pinned on the map on East Wilson Forest Service Rd.

Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%

(113)

32km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · BC

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!

Ohana Farms

95%

(160)

45km from Cowichan River Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · North Pender Island Trust Area, BC

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!

The best camping in Cowichan River Provincial Park, BC guide

Overview

About

Located on a linear 1,414-hectare park, Cowichan River Provincial Park is home to a portion of the Great Trail of Canada, which winds through the parkland, following the Cowichan River to Cowichan Lake. Families are drawn to the river’s warm waters, which are also popular among popular kayakers and tubers, and offer excellent fishing with abundant salmon, steelhead, and trout. Cowichan River Provincial Park lies within the territory of the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) people.

Notable campgrounds

Best for big groups: The Horseshoe Bend group site is known for its serene location and large picnic shelter with wood stoves and sinks.
Best for Great Trail of Canada hikers: The 43-site Stoltz Pool Campground has four walk-in campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations are recommended and available through BC Parks’ Discover Camping website for bookings between May 15 and September (and for groups from March to October).
If visiting weekends or holidays (Canada Day, BC Day, or Labour Day), secure a spot as far in advance of your trip as possible.
Your best chance at scoring one of the 18 first-come, first-served spots is by showing up right at 11am checkout.
If you can’t get a spot, try Gordon Bay Provincial Park on nearby Lake Cowichan.

When to go

Cowichan River Provincial Park is open for camping year-round, though some services are unavailable outside of the May to October season. For the warmest water, think about booking in July or August (though this will also be the busiest time in the park). The fall salmon run is easy to view at Marie Canyon.

Know before you go

The Trans-Canada Trail runs through the park over the nearby disused rail bed and takes hikers over the restored 66-Mile and Holt Creek railway trestles.
The nearby communities of Duncan and Lake Cowichan offer a variety of museums, shops, and restaurants.

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