Camping near Nanaimo
Camp by the beach, on an island, or along the lakeshore from this Vancouver Island gateway city.
95% (1092 reviews)
- Nanaimo
95% (1092 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Nanaimo
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12 top campgrounds near Nanaimo
93%
(49)
Island Gertie
2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Gabriola Island Trust Area, BC
The Gertie Bus is located a 5 min walk to a beautiful white sand beach (at low tide). There are walking trails all around and lots of beach access. Tucked into the front of our property in the quiet of Gabriola island you’ll find the converted Gertie bus with all the amenities you need.
The bus has a gas stovetop/oven, bar fridge and sink with grey water system. Equipped kitchen and sofa area to hang out.
The standard queen bed is great for sleeping in and relaxing with that second cup of coffee.
Mountain biking, hiking, swimming and whale watching are just steps away.
There is beach access across the street through a private park with picnic tables, a very old eagles nest and a private access to a rocky beach perfect for sunsets.
The home itself has a pottery studio on the main floor with a full time studio
Practice. Give Paige a ring if you’d like a tour, she’s usually working away.
Our family lives on the top floor.
Outside the bus is are lush veggie gardens, fruit trees and a nice private outdoor dining area. A BBQ and solar lights also help with evening hangouts.
Family friendly! Also we love animals but we ask that you clean up after your pet and keep any animals that aren’t so great with kids and other animals on leash. We have a dachshund on the property that is friendly and old ( barks at strangers but is all bark I assure you, he just wants to be friends)
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CA$98
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Red Bell Farm
7 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 bathroom, 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.
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CA$39
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Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat
47 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 travelers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded 6 beaches, one of which you can wind surf. 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; the Salish Sea to the west.
Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on ocean front property, to gather with friends, family, 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's (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 ambiance of tranquility. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of 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 a eagles nests, 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 ride, paddle board, bird watch, nature photography, and watch some breath-taking 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 tranquility and personal growth.
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CA$75
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99%
(37)
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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CA$35
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Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat
13 sites · Lodging10 acres · Halfmoon Bay, BC
We are centrally located on the Sunshine Coast, only a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, on a spectacular 10-acre ocean-view property. We run a small, organic farm and host guests in a wide assortment of intriguing tiny homes. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabin, glamping tent, and new additions, like our luxury tent trailer, bell tent, and furnished campsites in the forest.
Our property is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond, our new small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails on our property, visit our chickens, or sit near our seasonal waterfall. There are many spots on the property to sit and chill. We've also been Airbnb hosts for over 10 years.
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CA$50
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99%
(49)
Decourcy Meadows
1 site · RV4 acres · 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.
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CA$20
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Hidden Pond Permaculture Farm
1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Gabriola, BC
Hidden Pond Permaculture Farm offers beautiful tenting campsites, located in a beautiful forest. Sounds of farm animals and frogs can been heard. Take a tour and learn about what we are doing. Buy fresh food for your dinner. Close to beaches, hiking trails, and local Indigenous History. Long term islanders and can help plan your visit.
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CA$50
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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!
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CA$35
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Forest Sanctuary Cabin
1 site · Lodging10 acres · 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 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 in the campground in the vicinity.
Please note I am 1.8 kms up a well maintained private gravel road.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
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CA$135
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(32)
Wild Coast Parksville Campsite
1 site · RV, Tent8 acres · Nanoose Bay, BC
Learn more about this land:
We have a clean, open, level and private CAMP SITE ready to go! You must have your own trailer or tent.
We’re a 5-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.
There is 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. WI-FI onsite as well.
Private site yet close to all amenities. Local favourite Rocking Horse Pub is a quick walk 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, 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 and pets are welcome.
PLEASE NOTE that this is a campsite and the trailers in the photos are not for rent.
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CA$50
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theDoighouse Earthship
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, BC
Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans, and concrete?
Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, mere minutes from Qualicum Bay waterfront. Our location is a haven for adventurers and peace-seekers alike, offering easy access to the natural wonders of Vancouver Island.
Just an hour north of Nanaimo, our property serves as an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Or don’t leave the island and spend the afternoon eating delicious fresh-made doughnuts at the famous Old Country Market in Coombs, home to the iconic goats on the roof, it’s only a 20-minute drive from our doorstep. Or 10 minutes to the waterfront and delicious ice cream at the Cone Zone.
Stay local and discover forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes to an array of hiking paths, or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! Use your All Trails App to discover the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that it was the running shoes that were lost, not the people wearing them!
Or stop here for a night en route to and from the mainland to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing, or if skiing is your calling, Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive away.
You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our cozy tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff!
Our Earthship, currently under construction, is all about exploring a low-impact lifestyle, off-grid living in an energy-efficient dwelling built from recycled materials. It is love for the planet, and people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive.
Attend a group tour, or arrange for your own private tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project, and answering any and all questions you may have.
We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events.
On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily.
Come visit, tour, and stay.
Susan and Tony Doig
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CA$30
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Tranquil Escape
2 sites · Lodging36 acres · Cedar, BC
This 36 acre farm offers a tranquil, treed setting with direct access to the great outdoors and ample outdoor recreation all year round. Watch horses and deer that regularly pass by. Local attractions in the area include Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, Gabriola Island, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, and Neck Point Park.
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CA$175
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Star Hosts in Nanaimo
Dog-friendly getaways
Camping near Nanaimo guide
Overview
On Vancouver Island’s east coast, Nanaimo is a hub for adventures across the island. Based in this waterfront city set 113 kilometres from British Columbia’s capital of Victoria, you can check out wineries, beaches, and old-growth forests. It’s also the most convenient ferry port for continuing west to Tofino and the Pacific Coast. Surrounding Nanaimo are campgrounds by the ocean or along inland lakes, including Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park, Westwood Lake Campgrounds, RV Resort on the Lake, Brannen Lake RV Park & Campsite, and Jinglepot RV Park & Campgrounds. You can camp at several islands or provincial parks nearby, too.
Saysutshun (Newcastle Island Provincial Park)
A short 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, this island is the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and has a small tent camping area with washrooms and showers. You can lounge on one of the pebbly beaches or wander 23 kilometres of walking trails.
Parksville and Qualicum Beach
A 30- to 40-minute drive north of Nanaimo, the coastal communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach are popular with campers. A number of RV resorts and private campgrounds welcome families, or you can camp in several provincial parks. A favorite is Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, where the tenting spots and RV sites are near a sandy beach.
Cowichan Valley
South of Nanaimo and between the towns of Duncan and Cobble Hill, Vancouver Island’s wine country offers family-run wineries, cider makers, and distillers. You’ll find several campgrounds in this area, with more camping options to the west along Cowichan Lake.
Victoria and Vicinity
Most of the campgrounds near British Columbia’s waterfront capital are north or west of the city. The forested Malahat Mountain Meadows RV Park is near the summit of Malahat Drive with views over the Gulf Islands. Hike among massive firs and western red cedars in Goldstream Provincial Park, or camp by the water at Island View Regional Park on the Saanich Peninsula.
When to go
The busiest season in Nanaimo and across Vancouver Island is late May through mid-October, particularly during the sunny summer months of July and August and on Canadian holiday long weekends. With a temperate rainforest climate, this coastal region receives very little snow, but you should prepare for rain and chilly temperatures between November and April. While spring can still be rainy, it’s also relatively quiet with flowers in bloom March through May.
Know before you go
- BC Ferries can take you to Nanaimo from Horseshoe Bay, just outside of Vancouver,. Pedestrians and cyclists can walk onto the ferries, but if you’re taking your car, make a reservation in advance, particularly between late May and mid-October.
- Many of the campgrounds close to Nanaimo are designed for RVs, with full-service sites catering to big rigs. Tent campers may prefer the provincial parks or more secluded Gulf Island camping areas.
- Cafes and pubs cluster along the narrow streets of Nanaimo’s historic downtown. Larger groceries and big-box stores line the highways sprawling out from the center.
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