Vancouver Island is the perfect place to go camping. Think spectacular sandy beaches, gigantic old growth trees, perennially snow capped mountains, deep canyons, thundering waterfalls and more!
The best way to truly experience this magnificent scenery, in my opinion, is to spend time right in the midst of it!
With Vancouver Island being larger than most would assume (460km long and 100km wide, with over 3000km of coastline!), camping is also a very cost effective way to travel and explore this beautiful place.
JR and I are former residents of Vancouver Island and still make it a priority to visit at least a few times a year. We’ve explored extensively from tip to tip, camping in dozens and dozens of campgrounds over the years.
This post will feature what I believe to be the best places to go camping on Vancouver Island, plus essential information about when to go, free camping options and what NOT to do.
I will also be sharing some insider tips to help you secure your perfect campsite. I once worked at a BC Parks campground on Vancouver Island so I know a thing or two about what happens ‘behind the scenes.’
This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of these links, we may receive a percentage of the total sale.
Camping necessities
- Always bring the 10 Essentials
- Know how to stay safe in the backcountry
- Remember to Leave No Trace to help keep the wilderness wild
- Understand how to avoid negative bear encounters
- Recommended gear is listed on our Shop page
- Need a packing list? Sign up to our newsletter for a free one!
There are three main groups of first peoples of Vancouver Island: the Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth and Kwakiutl. The campgrounds mentioned within this post are located on the traditional territory of the 53 First Nations of Vancouver Island.
Planning a trip to Vancouver Island?
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The Best Campgrounds on Vancouver Island
And finally, here is the list – over 25 of my favourite places to go camping on Vancouver Island. These campgrounds range from tiny to huge and are found across the island.
I’ve separated the campgrounds by category, starting with provincial parks and ending with recreation sites.
I have made my shortlist with a focus on tent and small van friendly campgrounds. There are many ‘campgrounds’ that look more like a parking lot, designed primarily to accommodate RVs.
This is not the camping experience we look for. Indeed, we know many people feel the same and this list reflects that.
Vancouver Island camping map
Recommended campgrounds are marked on the Vancouver Island camping map below. Each campground category is marked in a different colour:
- Vehicle accessible provincial park campgrounds in maroon
- Backcountry and walk-in provincial park campgrounds in brown
- National park campgrounds in green
- Private campgrounds in orange
- Regional/municipal campgrounds in purple
- Recreation sites in blue
But wait, you missed my favourite campground?!
Sorry! With such a huge choice in places to go camping on Vancouver Island, it’s inevitable that I may not include some of your own top choices.
The list below features my personal favourites but I’m always interested in hearing about other awesome Vancouver Island camping sites!
REMEMBER: Always leave a campsite better than you found it, to ensure that future campers can enjoy their Vancouver Island camping trip too. Learn more about how to Leave No Trace.
Provincial Park campgrounds – vehicle accessible
There is no doubt that provincial parks are the favoured place to go camping on Vancouver Island.
In 2025, provincial park campground reservations can be made up to four months in advance (based on your arrival date). I have a guide all about making reservations.
- BC’s provincial park campgrounds always feature well spaced, clean and maintained campsites with a good level of privacy
- Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring as standard
- Most campgrounds have firewood to sell – the fee varies between parks
- None of the provincial park campground on Vancouver Island have on-site hookups for RVs
- The larger campgrounds have sani-dumps
- Reservations can be made online through the BC Parks’ website or the BC Parks call centre 1 800 689 9025 ($5 surcharge)
For two consecutive summer seasons, I worked in the gatehouse at one of the biggest and busiest provincial park campgrounds on Vancouver Island.
Not only did this experience teach me all the ins and outs of BC Parks’ reservations and regulations (I’ve included some insider tips at the end of this post!), but I also had the opportunity to test many other Vancouver Island provincial park campgrounds.
Goldstream Provincial Park
Despite being so close to Victoria, Goldstream feels like a world away. There are massive old growth trees to admire, summits to climb, waterfalls to hike to and spawning salmon to watch (in season).
The forested campground is a busy place, though it can be surprisingly quiet at the extremities.
Short and long hiking trails lead from the campground to the day use areas of the park.
The campground has hot showers, flush toilets (as well as outhouses) and potable water. A limited number of campsites are available in the winter for $13/night (outhouses only). There is cell phone service.
Goldstream has 173 vehicle accessible campsites, with 152 available for advance reservations. Campsites are $35/night per camping group in 2025.
China Beach Provincial Park
If you’re looking for a base from which to explore the Juan de Fuca coast (south west Vancouver Island), China Beach campground is a great option.
The well spaced treed campsites are 1km from the beach itself, accessed via a trail (steep in places and slippery after rain) through a beautiful Coastal Western Hemlock forest.
The expansive sandy beach has cliff waterfalls, plenty of driftwood and panoramic views. The campground has outhouses and taps with potable (drinking) water. There is no cell service.
China Beach has 78 vehicle accessible campsites, all available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $20/night per camping group in 2025.
Gordon Bay Provincial Park
A little off the tourist path, Gordon Bay campground is only a short walk away from pretty Cowichan Lake.
The lake itself (one of the largest on Vancouver Island) is bordered by a large sandy beach, making Gordon Bay an awesome location for swimming, sunbathing and paddling.
The reasonably large campground is set into a set in a second-growth Douglas fir stand. The campground has flush toilets, outhouses and taps with potable water. There is no cell service.
Gordon Bay has 126 vehicle accessible campsites with 123 available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $35/night per camping group in 2025.
A limited number of sites are open in winter for $13/night (no water, no flush toilets).
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Set close to two powerful dramatic waterfalls, this campground is an ideal overnight camping spot for travellers heading further north or across to the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Easy hiking trails lead from the Englishman River Falls campground through second and old growth forests to the dramatic waterfalls, canyon and stunningly clear pools. Swimming is allowed in the river below the lower falls.
The campground has outhouses and potable water taps. There is limited cell service here.
Englishman River Falls has 104 vehicle accessible campsites with 72 available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $23/night per camping group in 2025.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
Rathtrevor Beach is one of the most popular places to go camping on Vancouver Island.
And it’s so easy to see why – most of the spacious campsites are within 10 minutes walk from a gorgeous, wide sandy beach.
Look for crabs, sand dollars and bald eagles while admiring the panorama of snow-capped mountains across the Salish Sea.
Scattered with huge Douglas Fir trees, the forested campground has plenty of shade on sunny summer days. There are hot showers, flush toilets, outhouses, potable water taps and cell service.
All of the 250 vehicle-accessible campsites at Rathtrevor Beach are reservable. Campsite fees are $35/night per camping group in 2025.
In addition, Rathtrevor has 25 walk-in tent campsites (also reservable) available for $22/night. Limited sites are open in the winter at $13/night.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park
An ideal stopover point when travelling between Victoria and Tofino, Little Qualicum Falls campground is shady and usuall quieter than some local campgrounds.
Hiking trails meander through old and second growth forest to the cascading waterfalls that give the park its name.
My favourite route is the easy 3.2km loop that takes in both the Upper and Lower waterfalls plus numerous spectacular viewpoints of turquoise pools, roaring rapids, moss covered cliffs and more. Allow one hour.
The campground has outhouses, flush toilets and potable water taps. There is cell service here.
Little Qualicum Falls has 96 vehicle accessible campsites with 81 available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $23/night per camping group in 2025.
Kitty Coleman Provincial Park
One of the best kept Vancouver Island camping secrets, volunteer-run Kitty Coleman offers incredible oceanfront camp spots with an unbelievably low price tag.
There may be less privacy here than at other provincial parks but the amazing Salish Sea views just can’t be beaten. Even better still, these fabulous campsites are all available on a first come, first serve basis! Check out this Facebook post for more details on how the FCFS system works.
Besides walking on the beach, it is also possible to fish, swim and admire a huge 500+ year old Douglas Fir tree.
The maximum length of stay at Kitty Coleman is 10 days. There is cell service here. There are outhouses and potable water taps.
Kitty Coleman has 65 vehicle-accessible campsites. The camping fee was $20/night in 2024, not confirmed for 2025 yet.
Quinsam, Elk Falls Provincial Park
Quinsam campground is located a very short drive from Campbell River, making it the ideal base for exploring the ‘gateway’ of North Vancouver Island.
Most of the campsites are set into the sun-dappled second-growth forest, but some sit right next to the relaxing Quinsam River.
Taking a trip to nearby Elk Falls from the campground is a must – dramatically cascading into a deep canyon, this 25 metre waterfall is one of the most impressive on Vancouver Island. A suspension bridge offers incredible views.
There are flush toilets, outhouses and potable water taps. There is cell service here.
Quinsam campground has 122 vehicle accessible campsites, with 70 available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $22/night per camping group in 2025.
Limited sites are open in the winter at $11/night (outhouses only).
Loveland Bay Provincial Park
Accessed via a gravel road, Loveland Bay offers a taste of the beautiful Sayward Forest.
All of the campsites here are located along Campbell Lake, a huge body of water that is part of the Sayward Forest Canoe Circuit.
Swimming is a very popular activity at this campground, with the lake warming up fairly quickly in summer.
There are outhouses around the campground and potable water is available. There is no cell service here.
Loveland Bay has 31 vehicle accessible campsites, with 28 available for advance reservation. Campsite fees are $22/night per camping group in 2025.
Ralph River, Strathcona Provincial Park
Ralph River is a peaceful spot to be based, towards the southern end of Buttle Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park.
The campground itself is set by the lake and sites lie under the canopy of an impressive old growth Douglas Fir forest.
There are outhouses and hand pumps (with potable water) located around the campground. There is no cell service here.
Ralph River campground has 75 vehicle accessible campsites, with 73 available for advance reservation. Campsite fees are $20/night per camping group in 2025.
The other vehicle accessible drive-in campground in Strathcona Park is Buttle Lake, situated 28km north of Ralph River. I prefer the beach at Buttle Lake but the quieter nature of Ralph River.
Buttle Lake is a little bigger than Ralph River, with 86 sites (all reservable). The campsite fee is also $20/night.
Schoen Lake Provincial Park
Small but mighty, Schoen Lake campground has magnificent views across the pristine water to 1,802 metre rugged Mount Schoen.
This campground is firmly away from the beaten path, with very few facilities offered and a narrow (bumpy at times) access road.
Best suited for paddlers and adventurous travellers looking for a taste of true Vancouver Island wilderness.
Facilities are limited. There are two outhouses located at the entrance of the campground. There is no cell service here.
Schoen Lake has 9 vehicle accessible campsites, all available on a first come, first serve basis only. Campsite fees are $11/night per camping group in 2025.
Provincial Park campgrounds – walk-in and backcountry
Vehicle accessible areas (including campgrounds) in provincial parks are known to be ‘frontcountry.’
Provincial park areas accessible only by water or foot are accordingly called ‘backcountry’ and offer many more camping opportunities for adventurous self-sufficient campers.
Most of the backcountry campsites on Vancouver Island operate on a first come, first serve system.
Also in this category, I’ve included campgrounds that are ‘walk-in’ access only, meaning that there is a short walk (or ferry in one case!) required to reach the campsites.
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
Home of the 47km Juan de Fuca Marine Trail (JDF), this provincial park provides spectacular coastal day hiking and backpacking opportunities. It’s shorter but similar to the much more famous West Coast Trail.
Like the WCT, it offers impressive ocean views, challenging hiking conditions (mud, fog, high tides, rocks) and secluded beach camping.
Visitors who do not want to hike the entire trail can access the coast at several different points – China Beach, Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek and Botanical Beach.
There are seven designated camping areas located along the JDF, with most offering beach tenting spots, outhouses and bear caches. The trail is usually open year round (check for maintenance/closures first). There is no cell phone service.
While no reservations are required to hike this multi-day trail, there is a $10/person/night backcountry registration fee. The fee is payable at trailhead deposit boxes (cash) or online.
Sproat Lake Provincial Park
For those looking for a simple Vancouver Island camping experience, Sproat Lake may be the answer.
As well as two vehicle accessible campgrounds, this park has a 5 walk-in campsites located very close to the lake. They are just a short walk from the prehistoric petroglyphs that make Sproat Lake famous.
Set into a forest, the campsites don’t have a lot of privacy but the convenience and location are worth the sacrifice.
All of the walk-in sites are first-come, first-serve. There are flush toilets, outhouses, potable water taps and showers. There is cell phone service here.
The camping fee is $25/night in 2025.
Of the two vehicle accessible campgrounds, the ‘Lower’ one is closer to the lake. Campsites here are also $25/night in 2025.
Saysutshun Marine Provincial Park (aka Newcastle Island)
Located just across the water from downtown Nanaimo, the island of Saysutshun (Newcastle Island) was once host to two Salish villages.
Saysutshun later became the base of a fish-salting operation, sandstone quarry, shipyard and pleasure resort. Nowadays, it’s a relaxing place to explore by foot or bike. Read more about Saysutshun in our dedicated guide.
Accessible via a private boat or 10 minute regularly scheduled passenger ferry, the small forested campground on Newcastle Island is only five minutes walk from the dock.
There are outhouses, potable water taps and a flush toilet building with coin operated showers. There is cell phone service here.
Saysutshun has 18 walk-in campsites, all available for advance reservations. Campsite fees are $18/night per camping group in 2025.
Strathcona Provincial Park
Located right in the middle of Vancouver Island, British Columbia’s first provincial park has an abundance of nature and outdoor adventure to reward curious travellers.
Mountain peaks dominate, but hikers can also admire glaciers, fjord-like valleys, high elevation lakes, alpine meadows and Canada’s highest waterfall, Della Falls.
This massive protected area (over 248,669 hectares) is host to numerous wilderness camping areas, with designated backcountry sites on the Bedwell Lake Trail, Elk River Trail, Della Falls Trail as well as the Forbidden Plateau core area.
Backcountry camping rules, regulations and facilities vary across Strathcona Provincial Park. Check the specific conditions on the BC Parks website.
Camping fees are $10/per night/per person where applicable, payable via the BC Parks Backcountry Registration System (no reservations).
Cape Scott Provincial Park
Perched at the top northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, Cape Scott is a wild and rugged park featuring gorgeous white-sand beaches, old growth forest, salt marshes, wind battered headlands and fascinating history.
My favourite camping spot is Nels Bight, a wide golden sandy beach stretching more than 2km. The sunsets can often be spectacular here.
From Nels Bight, you can day hike to the Cape Scott Lighthouse, Hansen Lagoon or Guise Bay (another beautiful beach). The camping on Nels Bight beach is accessible via a 26km return hike.
For an easier alternative to Nels Bight, consider camping at San Josef Bay. The stunning beach is a flat 5km return hike from the parking lot and also features fascinating ‘flowerpot’ rock formations.
Cape Scott has six designated camping areas – Nels Bight, Nissen Bight, San Josef Bay, Eric Lake, Fisherman River and Guise Bay.
The trail is open year round but adverse weather conditions over winter can make camping difficult.
The backcountry camping fee is $10/per night/per person payable via the BC Parks Backcountry Registration System (no reservations).
Raft Cove Provincial Park
Located just a little further south, Raft Cove offers a similar Vancouver Island camping experience to Cape Scott.
Camping on the windswept white sand beach can be an incredible wilderness experience, despite being relatively so close to a road.
The 2km trail to the beach should not be taken lightly however, as the path is exceptionally muddy and rooty.
Raft Cove has backcountry camping available both on the beach and in the (more sheltered) forest behind.
The main camping area is at the far end of Raft Cove (tent pads, new outhouses, food caches) but there are a couple of smaller sites with food caches and outhouses marked with colourful buoys located along the way.
The camping fee is $5/per night/per person payable via the BC Parks Backcountry Registration System (no reservations).
National Parks
Vancouver Island is home to Pacific Rim National Park. The park consists of three areas (or ‘units’) – Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail.
Long Beach has a vehicle accessible campground (Green Point) while the other the Broken Group and West Coast Trail offer backcountry camping only.
Reservations open for all Pacific Rim campsites open in early January for the following summer season and can be made online via the Parks Canada Reservation Service or by calling 1-877-737-3783.
To visit or stay overnight in Pacific Rim National Park, you’ll need to pay for a parks pass ($11/day for adults) OR have a valid Discovery Pass (annual pass).
Green Point Campground
The one and only vehicle accessible campground in Pacific Rim National Park, Green Point is located on a forested bluff above magnificent Long Beach.
Most of the well spaced camp spots are surrounded by forest, with some of the oceanside sites having ‘peek through’ views of the beach.
Campers can access the golden sands of Long Beach via a short (5 minute) downhill trail. Vehicle sites have electrical service and access to showers and flush toilets, as well as outhouses. There is potable water available and firewood for a fee.
Green Point Campground has 94 vehicle accessible campsites and 20 walk-in tent sites, available from May to October. The camping fee is $36/night for the serviced sites and $30.50/night for walk-in (unserviced) sites.
Green Point is one of the most popular national park campgrounds in Canada. Availability disappears very quickly after the reservation launch (usually in January).
West Coast Trail
The West Coast Trail is an iconic multi-day hiking adventure along the rugged Pacific coastline.
The 75km long trail (plan for 6-8 days) has an fascinating history. It was created first as a trade and travel route for Huuay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht First Nations and later also used as a lifesaving path for shipwrecked sailors and their rescuers.
Open from May to October each year, only a limited number of hikers are allowed to start the West Coast Trail each day.
Reservations usually open in January and are snapped up quickly. Trail fees are around $300/person.
The Broken Group Islands
The Broken Group Islands are a paddler’s paradise – a marine archipelago of small islands, reef, channels and bays with an incredibly rich inter tidal zone.
Designated camping areas are situated on seven different islands and can only be accessed by boat.
There are kayak tour operators offering trips to the Broken Group for visitors without kayaking experience and/or required equipment.
Camping spots in the Broken Group Islands are available only through the reservation system.
Popular dates (July, August, holidays) are claimed fast, so be sure not to miss the early January opening date or consider planning a trip in the shoulder season instead (May, June, September).
Regional/Municipal Campgrounds
These campgrounds offer a mix of provincial park maintenance with recreation site casualness.
My top picks (listed below) both use a first come, first serve system for allocating campsites, which is very helpful for spontaneous campers or anyone who is just travelling through the area.
Spring Salmon Place Campground, Sooke Potholes Regional Park
Formed millions of years ago after the last ice age, the Potholes are a unique geological formation of deep rock pools, waterfalls and canyons.
The Spring Salmon Place Campground is located in a quiet and secluded sport at the north end of the potholes with swimming, hiking and biking opportunities.
There is potable water and outhouses in the campground. Cell phone service is limited.
Spring Salmon Place has 67 campsites, all offered on a first come, first serve system. Campsite fees were $25/night per camping group in 2025.
Jordan River Regional Park Campground
One of my favourite spots on the whole of Vancouver Island, Jordan River campground offers oceanfront camping on the Juan de Fuca strait, with views across to the Olympic Peninsula (Washington, USA).
While most of the campsites do not offer a lot of privacy or shade, the location is absolutely stellar, especially for the price!
Jordan River is just over an hour from Victoria and makes for a great base from which to explore the excellent hiking in the area (Sandcut Beach, East Sooke Regional Park, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park).
All sites are allocated on a first come, first serve system. There are outhouses and a drinking water station. No cell phone service.
Jordan River Regional Park Campground has 15 vehicle accessible campsites and 7 walk-in sites. 2025 campsite fees are $25/night per camping group.
Private campgrounds
Being privately owned, private campgrounds operate a bit differently than provincial or national park campgrounds.
They usually have more emphasis on RV owners, who are more likely to want more serviced campsites with power, water and sewer hookups. Campsites are usually smaller and located closer together.
Private campgrounds typically offer more amenities such as showers, flush toilets, wi-fi and swimming pools with a higher price tag to reflect this.
We are very picky when it comes to private campgrounds. To make the cut, they have to be both tent friendly and nature focused.
So I can assure you that all of these private campgrounds on Vancouver Island have a little something special about them.
Pachena Bay Campground
The star of Pachena Bay Campground, near Bamfield, is an unbelievably stunning pristine white sand beach.
The campsites are located in the temperate rainforest just behind, on both sides of a very straight, long road.
There are 8 campsites with absolute oceanfront views, though all of the shady sites are within easy access of the sand.
As the starting (or ending) trailhead of the West Coast Trail, Pachena Bay has a real end of the world feel about it.
The journey from Port Alberni (around 2 hours) is slow and bumpy, making this campground an appropriately climatic destination after a long drive.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water, 8 serviced RV sites, coin operated showers, wi-fi (at the office) and a gas station. There is limited cell phone service.
Pachena Bay Campground has 100+ campsites, with many good for tent campers. Peak season rates are $50 to $83/night in 2025. Campsites can be reserved online.
Pacheedaht Campground
Found at the southern terminus of the West Coast Trail, Pacheedaht Campground is situated on a magnificent 2km long sandy beach.
The campground is split into two main sections, with sites on the southern side being more rustic and less standardised.
Some campsites are waterfront, with others set into forest or with views of the San Juan river estuary.
The expansive campground has flush toilets, outhouses, showers, laundry facilities and potable water. There are powered sites available. Cell phone signal is limited here.
The organisation of this campground is on the relaxed side, so online information can be hard to find.
Pacheedaht Campground has 65+ campsites of varying sizes. This Imgur file (from 2018) has camping rates, rules, regulations and hand drawn maps. They have recently launched a website with information and online reservations.
Bella Pacifica Campground
Situated right on beautiful Mackenzie Beach, Bella Pacifica is our pick for the best private campground in the Tofino area.
There’s a real mix of different sites and locations on offer, from beachfront, oceanside and forest sites.
The beachfront sites lack a little privacy but the views (and the sound of the nearby ocean!) are amazing.
Some sites have services (water, power), while others are more rustic and primarily designed for tent users. Either way, all sites are a very short away from the beach and roaring Pacific ocean.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water, coin operated showers, laundry facilities and free wi-fi. Campsites can be reserved online.
Bella Pacifica has almost 200 campsites, ranging in price from $105-125/night in peak season.
Keep in mind that Tofino is one of the most expensive places to go camping on Vancouver Island.
Surf Junction Campground
If you’re looking for a characterful yet relaxing campground near Ucluelet, Surf Junction is likely to be a perfect match.
While not on the ocean (it’s a 2.5km hike away), this campground has plenty else to offer in terms of atmosphere, facilities and privacy.
Divided into two main camping areas, Surf Junction is an expansive place with the newer forested ‘Back Lot’ offering even more seclusion.
Some sites have services (power, water, sewer). The campground has flush and composting toilets, coin operated showers, potable water, store, wi-fi (at the office), hot tub, sauna, surf rentals and a covered picnic area.
Surf Junction Campground has 75 campsites, ranging from $52-80/night in peak season. Campsites can be reserved online.
Alder Bay RV Park + Marina
The easiest way to get off the beaten path on Vancouver Island (no gravel roads required) is to head north. This is where the roads get quieter and the scenery gets wilder.
Alder Bay is a very civilised place from which to take it all in – just don’t forget to watch for orca whales as you relax!
More RV-centric than the other recommendations listed here, we still found Alder Bay to be a small van / tent friendly place.
The campground has flush toilets, coin operated showers, laundry facilities, pay for use wi-fi, a kayak launching area and a store. Campsites can be reserved online.
Alder Bay RV Park has over 80 campsites, ranging in price from $36-63/night in peak season. Most of the RV sites have services available (water, power, sewer). There are 12 walk-in (tent) only sites located right on the water.
Recreation Sites
British Columbia has an amazing Recreation Site system offering low cost (and often FREE!) rustic camping opportunities.
There is a large network of these on Vancouver Island, especially in the northern region.
Recreation Sites operate a little differently than their provincial park counterparts:
- The majority of Recreation Site campgrounds operate on a first come, first serve system (starting in 2023, some can now be reserved)
- Recreation Sites are usually accessed via gravel roads
- There are outhouses (pit toilets) only
- Potable water is not available (bring your own or treat lake/river water)
- Campsites vary widely concerning size and level of privacy offered
- Every site should have a fire pit and a picnic table but these can get moved around by other campers
- Campers must carry out everything they packed in – garbage bins are rare
- Some Recreation Sites are regularly maintained, others are visited very infrequently
- No overnight fee OR low cost overnight fee for maintained Recreation Sites (usually less than $20, cash only)
With there being so many incredible Recreation Sites on Vancouver Island, I couldn’t possibly list them all.
Instead, I am including a selection of easily accessible campgrounds (i.e. they are all located very close to main roads).
To locate others, your best resources are the Sites and Trails BC website and the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook.
This mapbook is not just helpful when choosing Recreation Sites, but also for navigating on the Island’s many logging roads.
Due to most Recreation Sites being accessible from gravel roads only, you’ll need your own vehicle OR rent from a company that allows their vehicles to be driven on these roads.
One of these is FarOut Wilderness, a Vancouver Island based company run by adventurous couple Sam and Abbie. Tell them we sent you for a 5% discount off your booking.
Lizard Lake Recreation Site
Just twenty minutes drive from Port Renfrew, this Recreation Site is an ideal place from which to search for the biggest trees in the area.
Avatar Grove, home to the gnarliest trees in Canada, is just a short drive away.
The Harris Creek Spruce and San Juan Sitka, some of Vancouver Island’s biggest trees, are also very close.
Lizard Lake Recreation Site itself is shady and has well spaced camping areas. There are two floating docks, providing easy swimming and paddling opportunities. A hiking trail circles tranquil Lizard Lake.
Lizard Lake has 19 vehicle accessible campsites and 8 walk-in (tent only) sites. The fee is $20/night per camping party.
Just over half of the sites are available for reservation, with a 60 day rolling window. The other sites are first come, first serve.
Pacific Yew Recreation Site
This newly built Recreation Site is one of the most spacious and well managed Vancouver Island campgrounds.
Situated at the bottom of Mohun Lake (part of the amazing Sayward Canoe Route), Pacific Yew is also well located for paddlers and boaters.
The campground is just north of Campbell River, though the Menzies Mainline access can be quite bumpy.
The huge campsites have plenty of room for larger vehicles and easy access to outhouse facilities. Our top picks were no. 23 and 25, offering great views of the lake.
Pacific Yew Recreation Site has 30 vehicle accessible campsites, each with a camping fee of $18/night. The operating season is mid May to early September.
Just over half of the sites are available for reservation, with a 60 day rolling window. The other sites are first come, first serve.
Marble River Recreation Site
Located next to a Provincial Park of the same name, Marble River Recreation Site offers well spaced, mostly private campsites in a forest setting.
The campground is a 40 minute drive from Port McNeill. Accessible both on foot and bike, the nearby Marble River trail is 4.2km long and provides salmon spawning viewing in autumn.
The sites are spread across two campground loops – the ‘outside’ sites on the lower loop are most popular as they back onto the river. The upper loop is usually very quiet.
Marble River Recreation Site has 35 vehicle accessible campsites. Camping here is completely FREE and there is no reservation system.
The downside? This campground is closed from September to May.
Nahwitti Lake Recreation Site
A small, fairly dark campground perched between a road and a lake, the beauty of this Recreation Site is all in the trees and location.
Huge balsam and hemlock trees reach for the sky, creating an impossibly high canopy about the camping sites.
In terms of location, Nahwitti Lake is the perfect stopover on the way to (or from) Cape Scott Provincial Park.
Nahwitti Lake Recreation Site has 8 vehicle accessible campsites. Camping here is completely FREE!
Vancouver Island camping tips
Now that we’ve got through the list of recommended campgrounds, let’s talk Vancouver Island camping tips!
Essential Info
- Leave No Trace while camping on Vancouver Island. This means camping at established sites, packing out everything you brought with you, only using designated rings for campfires and leaving anything you find (rocks, plants, driftwood etc)
- Keep a BARE campsite at all times to avoid attracting wildlife (including bears). ALL food and food related items should be in your vehicle or storage lockers/caches when not in use. This includes items used in food preparation such as coolers, stoves, garbage etc
- Be sure to check for any campfire restrictions before heading out. The BC Wildfire Service website has all of the latest updates. Keep campfires small (0.5m x 0.5m), never leave a campfire unattended and always extinguish the fire properly after use
- If potable (drinking) water is not available, be sure to treat any natural sources of water before using. For large amounts of water, we like to use a gravity water filter system. For smaller amounts, we like the BeFree filter and purification tablets
- When leaving main roads and population centres, be sure to tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you plan to come back. Cell service is limited in rural areas
- Local residents of Vancouver Island include black bears, cougars, elk, wolves and other large wildlife. Knowing how to stay safe around these animals (and how to keep them safe too!) is so important, especially when camping
The best time to go
Vancouver Island has some of the most pleasant year round weather in Canada, with mild (but wet) winters and sunny, usually hot, summers.
The main Vancouver Island camping season is mid-May to early October. Most provincial park, private and municipal campgrounds will be open for the full length of this season.
Peak season is generally considered to be late June to late August (warmest, driest weather) but this does vary with location. Private campgrounds usually charger higher fees during peak season.
Finding a camping spot is more difficult during the peak season. Campfires are also more likely to be banned due to wildfire risk.
May, June and September are good months for camping on Vancouver Island as the weather can often be surprisingly warm and campgrounds are much less busy. Campfires are usually possible.
Camping (even in tents) is possible in April and October, but be prepared for damp and cool conditions.
The coldest months on Vancouver Island are November, December, January and February, with snow in high elevation areas.
Winter storms, with torrential rain and high winds, are also possible.
Snow is not super common at sea level for most of Vancouver Island but at least one big snowfall is likely during the winter.
Most Recreation Sites (except those with a caretaker) are open all year round.
Out of season, many private and provincial park campgrounds will be closed with a locked gate preventing entry.
How to secure the perfect Vancouver Island spot
Finding somewhere to go camping on Vancouver Island is a source of stress for many people every summer.
And, of course, camping is meant to be the opposite of frustrating!
Making a reservation (which can be an exasperating experience in itself) is the only true guarantee of securing a spot, but I do have tips and advice that may help.
My general Vancouver Island camping guidelines are:
- Avoid holiday weekends (Canada Day, BC Day, Labour Day)
- Go camping on weekdays rather than weekends
- Plan a trip for July rather than August, the latter is the busiest month all year. The very last few days of August (holiday weekend aside) are slightly quieter though
- Arrive as early as possible. First come, first served ‘check-in’ time at the larger provincial parks (with gatehouses) is 7am – 10am
- Be prepared to go further. The closer a campground is to the main (or paved) road, the busier it will be
Insider tips
As mentioned, I worked at a large provincial park campground on Vancouver Island for two summer seasons.
With that in mind (plus over 120+ nights of camping across Vancouver Island), here are some insider tips:
- Consider booking a double site with another family or camping group. Double sites at provincial parks (designed to allow two camping parties to camp in close proximity) must be reserved together, so they are less likely to sell out as quickly
- Even if provincial campgrounds appear to be booked solid, it’s worth checking in person for no shows. Reserved sites are held until 11 AM the day after the scheduled arrival date. So if someone doesn’t notify the campground host of a late arrival, their entire reservation should be cancelled the next day
- Bring a tent. Walk-in tent campsites are less popular, so campers who have the flexibility to use a tent are more likely to be able to score a last minute site at provincial campgrounds (if applicable, not all parks have walk-ins)
- If there are only a few spots left on arrival, claim one immediately. You can still swap later if desired (no charge) but hesitation may cost you the possibility of having any camping site!
- September is an awesome time to camp at provincial parks on Vancouver Island. For most Vancouver Island campgrounds, reservations cannot be made for dates after the Labour Day holiday
Essential camping items
Don’t forget these must have items when heading out on your Vancouver Island camping trip!
Lightweight tarp – Whether you’re camping in the mountains or temperate rainforest, you can’t go wrong with carrying a lightweight tarp for shelter or shade. Rain is possible at any time of year
Mosquito repellent – The mosquitoes in some areas of Vancouver Island can be vicious, especially in spring. Some kind of repellent is a must. Consider an appliance such as the ThermaCell
Camping stove – Never solely rely on campfires for cooking food. Campfire bans can come in at any time or the wood may be too wet to light properly. Bring a camping stove
Lighting – Always bring a separate source of light, be it a headlamp (hands free!) or lantern. The latter is great for long evenings playing cards or hanging out by the fire
Check out these related posts next:
Complete Guide to BC Parks Camping Reservations
How to Go Camping in BC Without a Reservation
Car Camping 101: A Beginner’s Guide
Where to Find Big Trees on Vancouver Island, British Columbia
How to Camp for Free in BC
Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park, British Columbia
Check out these recently published articles next
One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada. Consider buying us a coffee if you have find any of our guides helpful!
This is a super informative blog. Being born and raise on Vancouver Island and an avid explorer I found your blog helpful and even discovered some new spots to check out. Thank you!
Awesome to hear, thanks Lynn! Have a great time exploring.
If you sell a book of the above Vancouver Island information I will very happily purchase one. I have visited much of British Columbia on vacations in recent years since it reminds me of my home state of Colorado in the 1960s. Now retired, I plan a long visit to Vancouver Island next summer.
Thank you for sharing your efforts on the Internet–very valuable information for every traveler.
Hi John,
Thank you so much for the kind comments! I don’t have any plans for physical books right now but I have considered putting together PDF documents for electronic use. Is this something you would be interested in purchasing? I hope you have a fabulous time on Vancouver Island next year.
Hi guys,
Some Rec Sites now offer possibility for reservations online. Check http://www.vicamping.com for example on Vancouver Island.
Cheers!
Thanks for the heads up Chloe! I have just edited the post.
This was really helpful! Thank you for such a clear & informative article to help me narrow down which campgrounds to try!
Thanks for letting me know you found it helpful Nicole 🙂
Hate people giving away getawas 🙁
Hi Lindsey,
Most of the campgrounds mentioned in this post are located within provincially, regionally or nationally protected parks/recreational areas. The rest are private campgrounds. I do not believe in gatekeeping government-provided recreational spaces like these.
So how crowded is the camping situation on Vancouver island in July? If we’re flexible with rec sites or prov parks will we likely find fcfs spots?
Hi Rose,
In my experience, yes, on the north side of Vancouver Island (Campbell River and beyond). South Island is a different story, especially for provincial parks. Recreational Sites are your best bet in this area but there are not many of them. I would recomend reserving for the South Island for sure.
Hi Gemma
fantastic website, thank you.
Just a quick question – son age 20 on his own, wants to spend 4 nights camping on Vanc Island – only has a tent, will get ferry from V/Couver.
Is there a fairly accessible campsite not too far from the ferry, one which is small with some facilities?
Hi David,
The closest would be Saysutshun (Newcastle Island) – it is about 3km from the Departure Bay ferry terminal in Nanaimo. It’s a small tent campground on a small island a short ferry ride across from Vancouver Island. Alternatively, Rathtrevor Beach (near Parksville) has a great tent campground, separate to the larger vehicle accessible campground. Make a reservation early!
Not Vancouver Island, but Narvaez Bay Campsite on Saturna Island is a nice tent campground. It is 8km from Saturna’s ferry terminal. One of my favourite tent campgrounds anywhere is Ruckle Provincial Park on Salt Spring Island. Great views of the ocean.