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John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱)

The best camping in John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱), BC

Discover the natural splendor of John Dean Provincial Park.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Trace

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

Great communication! Thank you. Hopefully stay there soon.

Amanda

November 2025

21 ft Class B

1 night at Surrounded by Nature!

We had a great stay with our campervan. The site is easy to find and level and the gravel “patio” and string lights were a nice touch. Quiet with minimal traffic and very close to the park. We would definitely stay again if we find ourselves back in the area.

Julie

November 2025

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!

Marley

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

What a perfect stay! Michele was a lovely host and the cabin was in such a beautiful, peaceful spot. I loved the vibe of the cabin, cosy with the option to make a fire (loved chopping wood), and lots of cosy dvds' and vhs's to watch on the couch. The cabin also had its own privacy (its far enough from the main house & has its own driveway) which was perfect for us. It's located in a super convenient spot too, probably the best part of the island to stay - right next to a few cute shops, coffee carts and a restaurant while still being tucked away in the woods. Also next to a lovely hike. Would highly recommend!!!

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!

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 :-)

Siafon

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Forest Hideaway

wonderful and expansive property to explore, a huge treehouse to hang out in, and helpful and kind hosts. my friend and i had a wonderful time camping in this little forest hideaway!

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!

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.

Coral

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camas Creek Retreat

We enjoyed our weekend stay in the cabin! Upon arrival, Heloise and Ruth were welcoming and showed my husband and I around the property, and the details of the cabin space. It’s about a 40 minute drive from downtown Victoria and easy to find markets and shops from the cabin. The cabin has a fence around the front and is backed up against a small hillside. The bedroom is complete enclosed in the cabin space, but the rest (kitchen, dining, and shower) are more of an open concept space. Outside has a cozy ceiling heater where we played cards on the table in the evenings after a long day of adventuring and touristing around. There is plenty of space for cooking and lots of pots and pans. Plus a mini fridge for cold drinks of food items. The shower is outside against the hillside, and the toilet is compostable (don’t worry instructions are posted inside). Inside, the cabin has a full size bed which slept my husband and I comfortably. A space heater in case it’s cold, and extra blankets. The cabin is located on-site where the owners live, just a ways from their house, and near another neighbor that shares the driveway. WiFi is available if needed. My advice for showering is 1.) shower in the evening/ at night since it’s sort of open space and during the day some children were outside playing and 2.) undress inside of the shower space before turning the water on for maximum privacy. But it is a nice hot shower! We had a great stay, had everything we needed, and felt right at home.

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.

Brittany

September 2025

2 nights at Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

We had a lovely time at the sleep cabin. We definitely recommend bringing your own foldable cooking table if you plan on cooking your own meals outside as there isn’t much flat ground around the cabin to cook on. Peaceful, quiet, and tucked deep in the woods. Would definitely recommend and would love to visit again! Thank you for sharing your beautiful piece of land with us!

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.

Mariève

September 2025

20 ft Class B

1 night at Forest Hideaway

This was by far the BEST camping site ever! Everything was spotless and very easy to find. The facilities were super clean, especially the toilet, which was incredibly well maintained. The water jugs were very practical, and the site itself was quiet, private, and easy to access. The host was extremely kind and respectful, and he gave us great recommendations for places to visit that turned out to be amazing. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Highly recommend!

Apoorva

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camas Creek Retreat

Had the best time at camas creek cabin. Heloise and her family are wonderful and got us fresh produce of fruits from their garden to welcome us and also when we were leaving. The property is so peaceful and exactly what we wanted - away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The open kitchen and shower were super nice and we had a great time there . Ruth was incredibly sweet and helped us understand the life there. Their pup jeena is the cutest

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.

Top-rated campgrounds near John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱)

West Coast Retreat at Anneth Farm

97%

(30)

3km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 9 sites · Tents

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.

Surrounded by Nature!

95%

(136)

8.4km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 3 sites · RVs

**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.

Prospect Lake View

90%

(39)

11km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are situated on a 1.5 acre plot, 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.

Camping Historic Kinsol Trestle

99%

(62)

21km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Ohana Farms

95%

(160)

22km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 5 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!

Camas Creek Retreat

100%

(42)

25km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to Camas Creek Retreat, a secluded nature getaway 40 minutes outside Victoria BC. We are steps from Sitting Lady Falls, birdwatching at Witty's Lagoon, and some of the best hiking in BC. Bring your bike and coast down the hill to the Galloping Goose bike trail, go swimming at Matheson Lake, plunge into the Sooke Potholes, or visit one of the many beautiful farm stands in Metchosin and of course....llamas! Our property sits on two acres of Douglas fir forest and Garry Oak meadow. Camas Creek runs under a little bridge as you enter our lane. Watch for woodpeckers, ravens and birds of all types here. Nature and tranquility is all around.

Rejeanne's Forest on Salt Spring

98%

(114)

28km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 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!

Island Roost

100%

(11)

28km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

100%

(16)

29km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 2 sites · Lodging

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!

Woodlands Rd Campsite

100%

(43)

29km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 1 site · Tent

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.

West Coast Wilderness Glamping

96%

(12)

29km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 1 site · Lodging

Your booking at Maple Haven includes both tents and the entire site to yourself! A basecamp for adventure! This massive glamping site is completely private on 5 acres of forest at the base of a 4000 hectare hiking and biking adventure park! Enjoy a dip in the world famous Sooke Potholes (10min away by car) or ride horseback along the Galloping Goose, a gorgeous multi use trail stretching from Victoria to Sooke, then enjoy a craft beer at Oceanside Brewery, a 10min walk away!

Pacific Ranch

97%

(119)

30km from John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱) · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

The best camping in John Dean Provincial Park (ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱), BC guide

Overview

About

John Dean Provincial Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike, offers a tapestry of trails through lush forests and sweeping views of the Saanich Peninsula. While camping is not available within the park, the day-use area invites adventurers to picnic amid the serenity of ancient Douglas firs and to seek out the summit of Mount Newton for a panoramic reward.

When to go

The best time to visit John Dean Provincial Park is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the trails are most accessible. Winter months can be wet and less ideal for hiking, but the park's natural beauty remains a constant allure for those who don't mind a bit of rain.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for any trail closures or advisories before your visit.
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain can be uneven and sometimes slippery.
Bring your own water and snacks as there are no concession facilities within the park.
Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
Remember to carry out all trash and leave the park as pristine as you found it.

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