Camping in Cowichan River Provincial Park

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Stories from the community

Ben

2 days ago

Tent

1 night at Red Bell Farm

Gary was so welcoming and kind. A beautiful property with some great amenities! Would stay here again if I’m in the area!🙂

6 nights at Red Bell Farm

Gary was a great host, very friendly and the campsite was very well maintained.

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Loved our stay at this spot - super central to all the beautiful beaches and trails mid-island, great food close by and friendly accommodating hosts. Bathroom was lovely and our pups really enjoyed being off leash. We hope to return soon!

Weekend Trip to Red Bell Farm

Really accommodating to what we needed as the ferry was super full and we arrived later in the evening. We were even showed the features around the property late in the evening, and when we awoke the property was just as beautiful and welcoming as the hosts!

1 night at Forest Sanctuary

We love love loved our stay at the forest sanctuary. Christian has landscaped and curated a magical space. His love of the space is evident. Walking barefoot on the moss, sharing s'mores at a communal fire and appreciating the well stocked kitchen, being beckoned into the woods after dark by magical fairy lights... What a delightful time my daughter and I shared here. Great memories. We will return ❤️❤️❤️

2 nights at Red Bell Farm

We RV camped and liked convenient site and closeness to Cowichan Valley Trail and Duncan plus to-do list provided. Only downside was early morning traffic noise on roadway.

1 night at Murphy’s Farm

Ohh, this spot is a gem! Jannie and Nelson are super, super, super welcoming, very friendly and nice people. Their adorable pups, horses, cats and donkeys are just the cherry on top for this amazing place. Would recommend 15/0!

Weekend Trip to Red Bell Farm

Gary was a very friendly host. He showed us around the property when we arrived. The spot is very beautiful and open. Some of the tent sites are rather close together, but Gary let us move into a nearby field that was available. That let us have a bit more privacy and distance between us and the other tents. The sinks were great for doing dishes/washing up. It was also fun to see the chickens and a peacock roaming around in the field. Overall I would recommend this site for a camping trip!

Weekend Trip to Alpaca Haven

We would like to thank Roger for his hospitality. During our visit, we spent quite some time just relaxing on the campsite, which is very picturesque. We had a lot of fun feeding the goats and alpacas, and our 2-year-old enjoyed the yard so much that he didn't want to leave - many thanks to Roger and his family for sharing! Nearby are incredibly many beautiful places to visit, including scenic waterfalls and a beach with reasonably warm water. Roger was always very helpful. We hope to come back!

1 night at Murphy’s Farm

Lovely campsite. Lovely hosts. It was very quiet and calm and yet very near Coombs and Qualicum Beach. I would recommend it and i would definitely stay here again.

Weekend Trip to Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Lovely stay here — I loved chatting with Tricia (sp?) and my dogs loved their big field! Easy to access the spot, clean, pretty darn level, and a nice washroom.

1 night at Red Bell Farm

Loved my one night stay with Gary at Red Bell Farm, great host, shared information generously. Quiet with some nice additional amenities, fridge, coffee maker, kettle, comfortable lounge area overlooking a pond. Also nice meeting fellow campers. Supermarket and Reastuant’s near by. Bonus I was able to access the trail I was bike packing on, right from Gary’s property.

Weekend Trip to Red Bell Farm

had a wonderful, relaxing time at their farm. Gary was so nice and answered all our questions. It was well laid out with a great little pond, open kitchen and outhouse. We were at campsite #3 and it felt like we were sleeping in a jungle with all the wildlife sounds around us at night. Their property also has easy access to the Cowichan valley trail for a nice evening walk.

Weekend Trip to Murphy’s Farm

This was a really fun place to camp for the night! There’s a sink and tap for washing up. The compost toilet and shower are in a little tent which was simple to use.

6 nights at Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

Cory was warm and welcoming when we arrived. The land is clean and well set up for campers. We found it to be a great central location for exploring the island. It is such a beautiful area, lots of nice walks and places for our little Chihuahua to run around. We were at Cory's place for a week, and wish we could have stayed longer. I would definitely recommend booking a stay here. We would love to return in the future

3 nights at Woodlands Rd Campsite

We loved the camping on Dan’s land we had everything we needed and Dan was very nice and helpful. I recommend

2 nights at Red Bell Farm

Beautiful location right on the Cowichan Valley Trail system. An easy ride to explore the great vintage shops and cafes in historic downtown Duncan. Gary was easily reached by phone when we ran into an issue with our RV, and offered solutions. We especially enjoyed the peaceful pond complete with frogs, dragonflies, lily pads, and a seemingly unlimited array of friendly horses next door. Would recommend to others, the only caveat being the raucous peacock that woke us from 4-6am each morning. Earplugs recommended!

1 night at Alpaca Haven

Our experience at Rodger’s property with the Alpacas and goats was amazing! We had the area all to ourselves us and nature! We enjoyed the animals and had a nice campfire and we also were graced with 2 owls sitting on the fence!

1 night at Sea Change Farm and Nursery

Gorgeous spot outside of Sooke surrounded by wild flowers, a pond and vegetable patch

1 night at Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

Plenty of space for the RV. A lot of big trees for shade. Clean site near the bay just across the road with no traffic. Host Tina agreeable and welcoming, responds quickly to emails. The site is less than 15 minutes from the ferry to Victoria or Nanaimo. Clean showers. Easy to do biking around.

Top-rated campgrounds near Cowichan River Provincial Park

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Red Bell Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · 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.

79%

(201)

Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · 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.

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Ohana Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents46 acres · 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!

Booked 1 time

Frog Song Raven Yurt

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Cobble Hill, BC

This is a 700sf yurt. Ceilings rise to 14ft, with a large skylight in the centre leading to a light, airy feel. Amenities are basic, but the surrounding extraordinary. Yurt sleeps 4 for a relaxing and affordable 'Glamping' experience, sure to be much more tranquil than Tofino in July. Set on our family 5-acre hobby farm, you are surrounded by beauty and healthy living. Our neighborhood boast biking, hiking, horseback riding, wineries, swimming, paddle sports, quaint shops and fine dining.

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Alpaca Haven

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Parksville, BC

Recently moved to property to begin our new journey, this property holds an immense sense of peace and wellness, grazed by lamas and alpacas for past 2 decades &10acre farm property completely fenced in and void from predators, general public, and unwanted guests. Pockets of old cedars, ponds, forest trail and privacy. Feel at one with surrounding nature. Gated and fenced in access points for use coordinating with grazing animals. Learn more about this land: Our property is located in between Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Vancouver Island! We have a friendly, small alpaca herd and 6 blissfully friendly goats. You have the option to interact with them if you'd like! We are minutes from beautiful ocean beaches, river access, lush green trails, or the amenities of the Parksville/Qualicum Oceanside region. Parksville is one of Canada's most popular summer destinations for families. Everyone loves Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, with its beaches, tidal flats and pools, and wildlife. Quiet nights with moonlight, stars, crickets singing and owls hooting. Qualicum Airport and restaurants nearby. You'll have access to potable water from the well if needed. Pets are welcome at the discretion of property owners. Campers can expect a peaceful retreat closely located to some of Vancouver Islands' most sought off adventures, experiences, and memories.

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(76)

Sea Change Farm and Nursery

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.♥️

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(79)

Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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!

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Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Nanoose Bay, BC

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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Murphy’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Parksville, BC

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 2 horses and a mini donkey. We have a hot outdoor shower available and running 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

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Surrounded by Nature!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · 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.

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3 sisters ranch

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Parksville, BC

Close to all the amenities the Oceanside area of Vancouver Island has offered. Quick access to Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, The amazing beaches of. Qualicum. Parksville and Rathtrevor 15 and 10 minutes away. 1:45 minutes to Tofino and our amazingly rugged and world renowned West Coast experience surfing amazing scenery. Epic Mountain biking at your doorstep. DH At Hamerfest is a 10 minute drive or a 45 minute pedal away cross country. Fine dining and all amenities including urgent care after riding is only 10 minutes away. Great hub to experience Vancouver Island from. While the fire ban is on, it is generated towards open fires. Propane fire pits and cook stoves are always welcome.

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Maple Tree

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Salt Spring Island, BC

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.

Camping in Cowichan River Provincial Park 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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