It’s that time of year again! The sun is out, the heat is rising, and all we want is to pack our bags and explore the Island! It's never too early to start planning your next adventure. Some campsites are booking up fast, so forget the extra stress and make sure to plan your trip in advance. Happy camping!
Camping Hacks
Camping can be magical experience... it can also be a headache. Check out this video for 25 camping hacks that can substantially improve your wilderness experience.
South Island
Image via Tourism Victoria
Sooke Potholes Campground offers an immersive, high-quality, self-contained wilderness camping experience on a first-come-first-serve basis. The perfect place to turn off your cellphone, swim in the potholes, cycle the Galloping Goose and camp under the stars.
If you are lucky enough, you can even camp in a riverfront spot if you arrive early!
Image via Cowichanlake.bc.ca
There are several campground options around the Cowichan Lake area and, to be honest, you can't go wrong. Whether you're looking for something lakeside (book ASAP!) or you want to explore the woods, you will find a perfect spot to relax and appreciate the surrounding nature.
Nanaimo Lakes, comprised of First, Second, and Third Lake, are found on the upper Nanaimo River. Fourth Lake (requires 4x4 to access) is located behind a dam impounding the river. With multiple camping sites available, all types of adventurers are welcome! A favourite camping spot is Old Mill - it offers the best Vancouver Island forests and lakes scenery. They have lakefront camping spots, but they fill up months in advance!
image via gocampingbc.ca
Massive trees, majestic waterfalls, a meandering river that meets the sea, flowers, birds and fascinating fish are but a few of the attractions that draw people to Goldstream Provincial Park. Park naturalists offer interpretive programs and informative lectures about the area’s natural history for individuals and groups at the Visitor Center. The park also features a large picnic area with shelters, as well as vehicle accessible camping and group sites.
Make a reservation through Discover Camping now! No first come first serve spots available.
Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park is a luxuriously forested sanctuary that is without a doubt one of the most remarkable wild places on Vancouver Island. It is a majestic forest capable of inspiring all visitors who come here (it's also the inspiration for one of the Island's raddest bands), and offers unforgettable recreational opportunities for hikers and wilderness lovers. Several hiking trails in the Valley provide access to many of the park’s notable natural features, including some of the Island’s largest trees. Many sections of the trail can be very difficult. Be equipped with appropriate clothing!
image via Parks Canada
The Campground is the best of both worlds, located near Victoria and the city of Sidney; It's an excellent base of operations for exploring both the Gulf Islands and the Greater Victoria area, for campers, RVers, and cyclists. Forested, with both sunny and shaded sites, near municipal parks and a community trail system and only a few minutes from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal!
image via tourism Victoria
The Island View Beach Regional Park RV & Tent campground opens May - September. The site features long, sandy beach for exploring, picnicking and swimming beach, dune, wetland etc. James Island and Mount Baker a loop trail offers an easy and scenic walk self-contained RV and tent campground.
The CRD’s online reservation site allows you to pay immediately for a campsite with no wait!
image via Bcparks.ca
While the kids frolic in the warm waves, parents can lounge in the sand and enjoy the views across the inlet. A vehicle accessible campground is nestled in this forest environment, where eagles and osprey can be seen circling high above. Waterfowl and seals are frequent visitors to the surrounding waters. The park is very popular in the summer months, especially June-August. Make a reservation through Discover Camping now!
Mid Island
image via besthike.com
One of the most popular camping destinations in BC, Strathcona Provincial Park, is home to many different camping spots. Each section of the park has its own unique beauty and natural attractions, so we suggest researching in advance to find the perfect spot for you and to see what's open here. No matter how long your visit, or whatever your interest, a knowledge of the geology of Strathcona Park will enhance your enjoyment of this spectacularly beautiful area.
image via Surfgroove.ca
Calling all surfers and open-sea lovers! Surf Groove is the only campground at Cox Bay, one of Canada’s favourite surfing destinations. The place offers high-quality, carefully considered amenities, creating the perfect balance between comfort and rusticity.
Their booking system is super easy and can be done online via surfgroove.ca!
image via bcparks.ca
Few locations on Vancouver Island compare to Miracle Beach Provincial Park. The campground features a large, beautiful beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, a favourite destination for adventurers and family groups. At low tide, grab the kids and take a walk near the ocean to explore and observe various marine life in the tidal pools!
Bordering Rebecca Spit Provincial Park, We-Wai-Kai Campground is all about peace, quiet, isolation and diving into nature. With 150 RV and tenting sites across the area, it’s almost sure that you will find a private, isolated spot to relax and enjoy the silence in the woods. If you hurry, you can even find a place to camp near the water! The campground also has fantastic amenities such as laundry facilities, a convenience store and kayak/stand-up paddle rentals.
North Island
image via pqbnews.com
Telegraph Cove is an adorable community surrounded by history and stunning natural beauty! Featuring RV parks and campground options, the area has many incredible hiking trails for all levels for those who want to explore nature. Take some time to grab a coffee and stroll around the marina and discover the colourful facades- it's seriously worth the visit!
Go Camping BC
This is about as rugged as it gets. Bears, wolves, and wildlife are abundant and you will need 4x4 capabilities to tackle the 60km gravel road leading into the park. This is not the family friendly, weekend with the toddlers type camping spot. With that said, this pristine northern oasis offers seemingly infinite scenic trails and coastline with deserted beaches and unparalleled west coast views. Whether you are after a rustic weekend getaway adventure, or looking to take on one of the most challenging yet rewarding hikes in Canada, Cape Scott Provincial Park has got you covered! Located in a truly magnificent coastal wilderness area, the park has 11 campsites for you to choose the perfect spot that best suits your trip.
Resources
Find every information you need to plan your next adventure on Vancouver Island:
