Camping in British Columbia

A vast wilderness of mountains, backcountry trails, temperate rainforests, and a sprawling waterfront.

94% (6425 reviews)
  1. British Columbia
94% (6425 reviews)

Popular camping styles for British Columbia

Camper favorites in British Columbia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Star Hosts in British Columbia

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in British Columbia

84%
(245)

JX Campground (Tofino-Ucluelet JCT)

20 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Tofino, BC
Welcome to JX Surf Shop and Campground! We are located just 10 minutes outside of beautiful Ucluelet and only 5 minutes away from the Pacific Rim National Park. We have 30amp-powered sites with water hookups as well as tenting sites. We also offer overnight parking for those sleeping in their cars. We share property with other great businesses! -JX Surf Shop has rentals and can also book surf lessons for you! -TickinT-Bird rents E-bikes so you can bike to all the beaches in the Pacific Rim National Park. 9am-4pm -Puna Food Truck offers apres-surf pocket food & coffee. South American style empanadas in veggie, chicken, and ground beef options. Rolled and baked in the house with organic flours. 8am-5pm - Tommy's Pizza offers unforgettable Neapolitan-style pizzas. Skip the dishes while camping and be delighted! 3pm-9pm Wednesday to Monday - SunRay Food rtuck has smoothies, baked goodies and variety food like Tacos, Falafel, Quinoa bowls, Sandwiches, Wraps, Hot Dogs and much more for everyone. 9am-3pm Thursday to Monday - Kikan Food Truck is a modern eatery serving Asian soul food from 12pm-4pm Wednesday to Sunday Camp Surf Dine and Ride at JX Campground **Please note that JX Campground is for short term camping only. Vehicles, tents, trailers must leave the property after a maximum stay of one week. Thank you for your understanding.
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CA$30
 / night
85%
(72)

Boulder Mountain Resort

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents14 acres · Revelstoke, BC
Boulder Mountain Resort is an outdoor paradise for adventurers and relaxing campers looking to take in beautiful Revelstoke views in the heart of Canada’s iconic wilderness. Experience the beauty of nature in comfortable and convenient accommodations at Boulder Mountain Resort. Choose from a variety of lodging options all equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Experience the great outdoors in style with our camping and glamping options at Boulder Mountain Resort. Our campsites and glamping tents offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern conveniences, making it easy for you to enjoy the beauty of nature in comfort. At Boulder Mountain Resort, our RV sites offer the perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty. Our spacious sites are equipped with modern amenities, such as electricity and water hookups, to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
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CA$50
 / night
99%
(367)

Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp

31 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Canal Flats, BC
Hosted by Berny and Stuart Moore, Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp is nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountain Trench in Southeastern BC, just a short drive from Lussier natural hot springs, hiking, boating, canoeing, golfing, breathtaking WhiteSwan Lake, Premier Lake, Findlay Falls and the Kootenay and Columbia rivers. Many people ask..”How far are we from Banff…2 hours of a beautiful drive that includes kootenay national park. Blacksmith Landing is a safe, spacious and peaceful camp where minimal environmental impact is encouraged. We are faithful stewards and respect our beautiful forested lands and animals Our expectation is that campers will also share this respect for our Eco systems in an environmentally friendly way. As we take this Hipcamp journey together, we are finding little things we can do to make your stay better…Like offering a complimentary table at your site should you require one…. or adjusting the site you booked to one that would perhaps fit your needs much better as we know it’s difficult to choose a perfect site on line. If you forgot something, we probably have one…. Feel free to ask.
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CA$35
 / night
78%
(89)

Golden Riverfront Campground

110 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Golden, BC
Golden Riverfront Campground offers a gateway to the wild beauty of British Columbia in a truly immersive experience. Spread over 400 scenic acres in Golden, BC, the campground is nestled near six stunning national parks, making it a prime base for outdoor enthusiasts. This campground brings you closer to nature with thoughtful, eco-friendly amenities designed to balance comfort with the great outdoors. Guests can choose from 56 RV sites with electric and water hookups, a range of tent sites, and a few cozy yurts. Each campsite is designed to respect the natural landscape, ensuring privacy and space, with features like picnic tables and fire pits for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's convenience store is stocked with groceries, firewood, and camping essentials to enhance your stay. Golden Riverfront Campground provides direct access to the Columbia River, where guests can explore serene waters through kayaking, canoeing, or fishing, and even enjoy a swim on a warm day. The unique, eco-friendly pond, fed by the Columbia River, adds a tranquil touch and serves as a habitat for local wildlife, offering guests a rare chance to connect with nature. Beyond camping, the campground’s two-story event pavilion—with its commercial kitchen and games room—offers a versatile venue for celebrations, weddings, and gatherings, providing a memorable backdrop against the Columbia Valley's dramatic landscapes. Families and groups can gather here in harmony with the surrounding environment, creating lasting memories while minimizing their ecological footprint. Whether you’re an adventurer ready to explore BC's trails or a nature lover seeking peace by the water, Golden Riverfront Campground offers an authentic, eco-conscious retreat. Escape to a place where nature meets comfort and let British Columbia’s landscapes be the heart of your journey.
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CA$42
 / night
94%
(214)

Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Halfmoon Bay, BC
Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat is an Award-winning Glamping Nature Retreat. 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 intriguing tiny homes and glamping tents. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view, furnished RV's with large decks, to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabins, RV's, and assortment of glamping tents. Our property is a nature oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 20 minutes north of Sechelt, we're close to beaches and lakes. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond (much smaller in the summertime), our small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails, 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 13 years. If you come during campfire season, please bring your firewood. You're also welcome to scavenge for dead dry wood on the property, but we no longer have firewood for purchase. Typically, gas stations and some grocery stores have some for sale.
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CA$34
 / night
99%
(195)

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.
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CA$37.05
 / night
96%
(146)

Fuzzy Buddy Ranch

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · BC
Imagine crystal clear blue skies, snow-capped peaks, refreshing lakes and rivers, and a lush valley. Fuzzy Buddy Ranch is the perfect spot to camp! We have large area cleared for RVs, trailers, tents or camper van dispersed camping sites. The ranch has ten 30 amp power sites with lots of room to turn around and most you can drive right through without having to back up. Views of mountains in every direction with lots of wild birds in the area. We have horses, cows, sheep, chickens, dogs and cats at the ranch. The small working ranch is in the Rocky mountain trench with the Rocky Mountains to the east the Caribou range to the east and the Monashee Mountains to the south. Maps available in Pictures. Shower and water available in ranch yard water tap is on the south side of the ranch house. Nearby activities include hiking, biking( bike rentals available in town), climbing, fishing, paddling. The site is 20 minutes from Mount Robson Provincial Park (Berg Lake trailhead) and just over an hour to Jasper National Park. Valemount townsite is 15 minutes away and is home to a renowned mountain bike park, Three Ranges brewery and excellent restaurants such as the Glacier fire Pizza. Please take the time to read any posted signs regarding rules of the ranch, speed limits, etc, and do not leave a trace. Please bring your garbage, tissues and cans with you. There is a local transfer station just 10 minutes south of us outside the village of Valemount. Please respect our home. Fresh farm eggs may be available. Pony Rides might be available. Ranch Rules Please do not leave any garbage behind. Do not leave a trace. No Dogs or other pets Do Not play with the Ranch Dogs no fetch no hugs no kisses Do not pet horses or cows Stay out of livestock pasture. Quiet time 10:00pm to 7am Shower Hours 5:00pm to 8:00pm Do not enter yard after 9:00pm We look forward to hosting you!
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CA$12
 / night
96%
(159)

Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Campbell River, BC
A beautiful campsite located in Campbell River, BC. Pastoral open field for RVs & tents. Easy access from the road and private secluded sites for single vehicles & tenters. We can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. No services/utilities this year. Only a 2-minute walk to the beach and several trails. Shelter Point Distillery is just next door. Other activities near include wandering along oceanside trails, fishing for salmon, swimming, or simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying nature. The region is a mecca for outdoor and marine enthusiasts as it boasts 5 Provincial Parks, several marine parks, golf courses, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing hotspots galore. Explore the wilds of Strathcona Provincial Park, paddle the calm waters of the estuary, get out on the water for a thrilling whale-watching excursion and so much more. Pets welcome, campfires permitted according to BC Forest fire ban limits. 10 sites available.
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CA$45
 / night
93%
(197)

Canadian Rockies Retreat

9 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · BC
Experience true seclusion in a remote, picturesque setting. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy a private, nature-filled retreat in the Canadian Rockies. With access to a creek, 3 waterfalls and a surrounding forest, this is the perfect place to escape the busyness of city life. Spend your days exploring the waterfalls and the iconic Blaeberry River! Follow the Waterfall signs to get to the first waterfall then go up the canyon to see the other ones. The Blaeberry River offers gentler rafting and paddling opportunities. There are also SUP, kayak and canoe guided tours and rentals nearby. There’s plenty of hiking, fishing, paddling and biking to enjoy. We have 3 different listings available an off-grid cabin, 2 yurts or a tent site with 3 different campsites available. We look forward to hosting you!
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CA$30
 / night
93%
(302)

Back Forty Vineyards

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Peachland, BC
Come camp on a 40-acre parcel backing onto crown land mountains and wake up in front of 10 acres of vineyard and a view of Okanagan Lake! There is a small cabin and two camp sites to choose from. Site 1 is best suited for tents and small campervans, less than 18' or so (though people with small trailers like tear drop campers have been fine). Site 2 has a much larger flat area that can hold RVs up to 30'. Cabin available for those that want to sleep in a cozy bed and have a warm fire :) Outhouse on the property, which is just a pit toilet. It is a working farm so will likely have various equipment around at times as well as workers at certain times of the year. You’ll likely meet our very friendly and very energetic Bernedoodle, Bernie. If you prefer to keep him out of your campsite just let us know and we can keep him closer. Otherwise, he thinks he has the run of the place! Please check to see if campfires are allowed (live in a high-risk fire zone) and firewood is available with an extra charge. If you need anything to better enjoy your stay, just let us know! Our property is located in Peachland, BC. Positioned midway between Kelowna and Pentiction, it is the perfect location to draw from both population centres and is well-positioned to act as a hub for popular wine and other agri-tourism activities. Peachland is within easy reach of over 200 estate wineries and microbreweries.
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CA$40
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Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

Other options in British Columbia

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in British Columbia guide

Overview

It’s hard to describe British Columbia as anything other than wildly breathtaking—quite literally when you swim in one of the province’s many turquoise glacier lakes, ride a wave, or catch a glimpse of a bear in the forest. For camping experiences and road trips, BC offers privately operated campgrounds and RV parks; a major network of parks with reservable and first-come, first-served tent camping sites; yurts and cabins; and thousands of recreation sites and trails on beaches, lakes, mountains, and meadows. Thanks to the mild climate and some winter huts, camping is possible year-round.

West Coast

The Pacific Ocean runs along the length of BC, offering plenty of oceanside spots to explore. On Vancouver Island, Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park are famous for cold-water surfing, whale watching, and hot springs, while nearby Ucluelet is a fisher’s paradise. Further inland, campers can find riverside camping in Squamish; backcountry huts around the resort town of Whistler; and reservable tent pads overlooking the jewel-toned Joffre Lake. For a true off-the-grid experience, head to Haida Gwaii's Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve—set about 100 kilometres off the northern British Columbia coast, this area is only reachable by sea or air.

Northern British Columbia

The northern part of the province is all raw, rugged beauty, with unique culture and untouched natural beauty. Soak in Canada’s second-largest hot spring in Fort Nelson, watch salmon spawning in the many rivers, and peek at bears catching some themselves at Kleanza Creek Provincial Park in Terrace. Options for outdoor stays include vast wilderness resorts, remote cabins, and private beach, lakefront, or rainforest campsites—but note that cell service and WiFi are rare in these parts. Bonus: Given its far north location, it’s relatively easy to snag last-minute campsites that still offer peace and quiet.

Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

With a blend of history, wildlife, adventure, and expansive grasslands, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is true Canadian countryside. Campers come to this wild western spot to spend time in the Great Bear Rainforest and at alpine rivers (whitewater rafting is big here), but travelers usually also visit lakeside fishing lodges and historic Gold Rush towns such as Barkerville. Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is a prime spot for the chance to spot a grizzly bear.

Kootenay Rockies

Set in the province’s southeastern corner and part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, the Kootenays are home to four national parks: Glacier, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho. Here you’ll find unrivaled wildlife—think black bears, mountain goats, and elk—much of which can be spotted even from the highway. Throughout the region are glaciers, peaks, waterfalls, and quirky little towns such as Golden, Cranbrook, and Kimberley, the highest in Canada at 1,113 meters up. Camping and tenting is typically open between May and September, with limited winter options.

Frequently Asked Questions

In British Columbia, camping is generally not allowed in public parks unless the park has designated camping areas or campgrounds. Camping in non-designated areas or outside of established campgrounds can result in fines, eviction, or other legal consequences. It is essential to respect the rules and regulations set by the park authorities to protect the natural environment and maintain the park's beauty. For legal camping options in British Columbia, including the Kamloops area, consider searching for designated campgrounds or sites on Hipcamp.

Yes, you can camp for free on Crown land in British Columbia (BC), Canada. Crown land comprises about 94% of BC's land base and is managed by the provincial government. Residents of BC can camp on Crown land for up to 14 days at a time, while non-residents are required to obtain a permit. It's important to note that not all Crown land is open for camping, and some areas may have restrictions. Always check the specific regulations and guidelines for the area you plan to visit and practice Leave No Trace principles. For more information on camping in BC, you can visit the British Columbia government website.

Several British Columbia provincial campgrounds offer electrical hookups for RVs and trailers. Some of these campgrounds include: 1. Cultus Lake Provincial Park: Located near Chilliwack, this park has a portion of its campsites with electrical hookups. 2. Porpoise Bay Provincial Park: Situated on the Sunshine Coast, this park offers a few campsites with electrical hookups. 3. Otter Lake Provincial Park: Located near Tulameen, this park has a limited number of campsites with electrical hookups. 4. Mabel Lake Provincial Park: Situated near Enderby, this park offers some campsites with electrical hookups. 5. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park: Located on Vancouver Island, China Beach Campground within this park has a limited number of campsites with electrical hookups. Please note that availability of electrical hookups may be limited, and it's always a good idea to get in touch with a campground for the most up-to-date information on their facilities and availability.

Yes, you can camp on Crown land in British Columbia, as long as you follow the guidelines and regulations set by the province. In general, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can camp on Crown land in BC for up to 14 consecutive days for free. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines to follow:

  • Stay at least 30 meters (100 feet) away from any water source.
  • Respect areas marked as "No Camping" or "No Trespassing."
  • Do not camp in areas designated for industrial or commercial use.
  • Be aware of any local fire bans or restrictions.
  • Leave no trace and pack out all garbage.
  • Respect wildlife and their habitats.

It's important to note that non-residents of Canada may need to obtain a permit to camp on Crown land in BC. Always check the specific regulations for the area you plan to camp in and follow all posted signage.

The cost to reserve a campsite in British Columbia, Canada, varies depending on the campground and the amenities offered. On average, you can expect to pay between CAD $20 to $45 per night for a basic tent or RV site. Additional fees may apply for extra services or facilities. To reserve a campsite in BC, you can visit the Discover Camping website, which handles reservations for BC Parks. For private campgrounds and unique camping experiences, you can explore Hipcamp options in British Columbia.

To book a campsite in British Columbia, visit the Discover Camping website, which is the official reservation system for BC Parks. You can search for campgrounds, check availability, and make reservations for provincial parks. For private campgrounds, you can visit Hipcamp to find and book a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and glamping experiences.

Yes, there is free camping in British Columbia. Many of these free campsites are located on Crown land, which is public land managed by the provincial government. Some popular free camping areas in BC include the Squamish region, Whistler, and Vancouver Island. Keep in mind that these free camping spots are typically more rustic and may not have amenities like running water or toilets. It's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these areas.

Yes, wild camping is legal in British Columbia. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed on Crown land, which makes up approximately 94% of the province. Campers can stay at a site for up to 14 days. It is important to follow Leave No Trace principles and adhere to any local regulations or restrictions. In addition to Crown land, BC also offers numerous provincial parks and recreation sites, where camping fees and regulations may apply. For more camping options in BC, visit Hipcamp.

Camping is allowed in British Columbia, but it is essential to check the most recent information before planning a trip. Some parks may have limited services or facilities, so it's essential to stay informed and be prepared for your camping trip.

Camping fees in BC Parks vary depending on the park, type of campsite, and the season. For frontcountry camping, fees typically range from CAD $13 to $45 per party per night. Backcountry camping fees are generally around CAD $5 to $10 per person per night. Group camping fees vary based on the size of the group and the specific park but can range from CAD $50 to $160 per night. Note that some parks may also require a reservation fee or a day-use fee in addition to the camping fees. You can find more information about BC Parks camping fees on their official fees page.

In British Columbia, many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, where you don't need a reservation. Some options include:

1. Recreational Sites: Managed by Recreation Sites and Trails BC, these campgrounds are often more rustic and remote. You can find a list of these sites on their official website.

2. Provincial Parks: Some provincial parks have first-come, first-served campgrounds. Check the BC Parks website for details on specific parks.

3. Crown land: Dispersed camping is allowed on Crown land, which makes up approximately 94% of British Columbia. Keep in mind that there may be no facilities or services available, and you should follow Leave No Trace principles. Remember that popular areas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so it's always a good idea to arrive early or have a backup plan in case your desired campground is full.