From scenic views to accessible amenities, a great campsite can make all the difference in your camping experience. If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver, Canada, you’re in luck. The city and its surrounding areas are home to some of the most beautiful campsites in the world.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most beautiful campsites in Vancouver that will make your camping trip unforgettable.
Top 10 Campsites in Vancouver
Porteau Cove Provincial Park »
Located on the southernmost fjord in North America, Porteau Cove Provincial Park is located on the Howe Sound, approximately 38 km north of Vancouver, British Columbia. This scenic park offers camping, picnicking, swimming, canoeing, fishing and hiking. The park provides views of log booms below the ocean surface and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including starfish, crabs, and colorful fish, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Porteau Cove is easily accessible from Vancouver or Squamish by taking the Sea-to-Sky Highway or public transportation.
- Address: 1372 Porteau Road, District of North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L3
- Phone: 604-885-7275
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/porteau-cove-park/
- Type of Camping: Car camping, RV, Tent
- Fees: Standard campsite fee per party per night $22 to $30 (prices may vary according to the season).
- Number of campsites: The park offers 52 vehicle accessible campsites and 16 walk-in campsites.
- Amenities: Fire pits, picnic tables, and potable water, and there are also flush toilets and shower facilities available for campers.
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Reserve online at https://camping.bcparks.ca/.
- Address: 1372 Porteau Road, District of North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L3
Alice Lake Provincial Park »
Alice Lake Provincial Park is a popular destination located in the Sea to Sky Corridor of British Columbia, Canada and includes a 463 hectare area situated in the scenic Paradise Valley, 31 kilometers south of Squamish. The park features five freshwater lakes, swimming, fishing and canoeing. Other recreation include hiking and mountain biking as well as some great spots for birdwatching and wildlife watching.
- Address: Alice Lake Provincial Park, 3980 Bedwell Rd., Squamish-Lillooet C, BC
- Phone: 604 796-9441
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/alice-lake-park/
- Type of Camping: Car Camping, Tent
- Fees: Front country campsite fees range from $32 to $37 for parties up to six people; backcountry camping fees are $5 per adult person and $2.50 per child and senior person per night (with an additional 50 cents for Campfire Protection Services).
- Number of campsites: There are four campgrounds within the park: Lakeside, Riverside, Hoodoo, and the group campsite.
- The Lakeside campground has 96 sites with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites.
- The Riverside campground has 39 sites, all of which are first-come, first-served.
- The Hoodoo campground has 48 sites, all of which are first-come, first-served.
- The group campsite can accommodate up to 50 people and must be reserved in advance.
- Amenities: Picnic areas, playgrounds, showers, flush toilets, a concession stand and a boat launch for visitors who want to bring their own watercraft.
- Reservations: Reservations can be made online up to four months in advance for individual campsites and up to 12 months in advance for the group campsite. A non-refundable fee is required at the time of booking.
Golden Ears Provincial Park »
Golden Ears Provincial Park spans 2,181 hectares of lush temperate rainforest on the south slopes of Golden Ears Mountain, among the Coast Mountains near Vancouver. The park includes 30 lakes (15 with fish), numerous streams and trails through old growth forests, with spectacular views from Heather Trail near Alouette Lake and many others around Panorama Ridge. There are three campgrounds in the park offering both front country and backcountry camping.
- Address: 24495 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge, British Columbia V2W 1B1 Canada
- Phone: (604) 463-6456
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/golden-ears-park/
- Type of Camping: Front country & backcountry camping with full service and rustic sites available
- Fees: Vehicle entry is $7 for a day-use pass or $14 for an overnight pass. Campsite rates run from $13 – $50 per night depending on the type of site.
- Number of Campsites: The park has 409 camping areas divided into three sections: Gold Creek, Alouette, and North Beach. Of these, 148 are reservable in advance, while the remaining sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Amenities: Picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, boat launches, and a beach for swimming. There are also picnic shelters, group campsites and a kitchen shelter available for rent.
- Reservations: Campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis during the off-peak season. During the peak season May 15 to September 30, you can make an online reservation.
Sasquatch Provincial Park »
Sasquatch is located in the Jemtegaard Range of southwestern British Columbia, just a few hours from downtown Vancouver. The park features breathtaking mountain scenery, dense forests and crystal clear creeks scattered amongst steep canyon walls. Activities include hiking, backcountry camping, swimming in the lakes and creeks, angling for wild rainbow trout, and wildlife viewing.
- Address: 200 Hwy 19, Nimpkish Valley, British Columbia V0N 2M4
- Phone: (250) 902-1730
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/sasquatch-park/
- Type of Camping: Wilderness Camping
- Fees: $5 per person per night plus applicable taxes.
- Number of Campsites: The park has 97 campsites separated into two areas: Hicks Lake and Deer Lake. 49 are reservable in advance, while the remaining sites are first-come, first-served.
- Amenities: Boat launches, hiking trails, picnic areas, swimming beaches, with picnic shelters and a group campsite available for rent.
- Reservations: Spots are first come, first served during off-peak months. It is strongly recommended to make an online reservation during peak season of May 15 to September 30.
Cultus Lake Provincial Park »
Situated about 1.5 hours east of Vancouver, Cultus Lake offers 215 car-accessible campsites and is well-equipped with hiking routes, a beach, and various water sports. The park is located on the banks of Cultus Lake, creating an idyllic and serene atmosphere.
- Address: Cultus Lake Provincial Park, 40585 Chilliwack Lake Rd, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4W5
- Phone: (604) 858-7203
- Website: https://www.bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/cultus/
- Type of camping: camping, RV sites and group campsites
- Fees: Single Night Occupancy – Campsite $35 / RV site $43; Multi-Night Occupancy – Campsite $49.99 / RV site $61.99.
- Number of Campsites: The park has a total of 239 campsites, which are divided into four different camping areas: Maple Bay, Clear Creek, Delta Grove, and Entrance Bay. Of these campsites, 104 are reservable in advance, while the remaining sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Amenities: Several beaches, bike rentals, boating, hiking trails, fishing, playgrounds, picnic areas, shower and washroom facilities, supply store and restaurant.
- Reservations: You can make a reservation for the park using the Discover Camping website. It is advisable to book in advance during peak season (May 15 to September 30) because the park tends to fill up fast.
E. C. Manning Park »
Located in British Columbia, Canada, E. C. Manning Park covers a vast area of 83,671 hectares and is one of the most popular campgrounds in British Columbia. It is about a three hours from either Vancouver or the Okanagan, and offers backcountry camping, hiking trails with views of the majestic Cascade Mountains and numerous small lakes for swimming.
- Address: 44140 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4A7 Phone: 604–794–6169
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/ec-manning-park/
- Type of Camping: vehicle accessible camping, camping with electricity, group sites.
- Fees: Vehicle Accessible Campsite (6 Persons): $28.00 per party/night; Camping with Electricity (6 Persons): $34.00 per party/night;Group Site – Large (20 to 28 persons): $128 per party/night.
- Number of Campsites: There are 355 campsites divided into six areas: Lightning Lake, Coldspring, Hampton, Mule Deer, Lone Duck, and Deer Flats. 200 of the campsites allow advance reservations.
- Amenities: Boat rentals, fishing, hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, swimming, showers, washrooms, as well as a store and restaurant.
- Reservations: Outside of peak season, campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park »
Situated on Vancouver Island, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is a prime location for those who love long stretches of sandy beaches, hiking, and camping. The park features a forested campground, many hiking trails, 174 vehicle-access campsites, a group campsite, and a walk-in campsite.
- Address: 2800 Rutherford Road, Parksville, BC V9P 2R4
- Phone: (250) 248–6665
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/rathtrevor-beach-park/
- Type of Camping: Drive–in, Walk–In, Group
- Fees: Vehicle Access Fee $19 –$35 depending on season; walk–in campsite fee at $14 – 15 per night.
- Number of Campsites: The park has 174 campsites divided into two different camping areas: Riverside and Beachside. All campsites are reservable in advance.
- Amenities: Beach access, shower and washroom facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, a nature house, concession stand and beach equipment rentals.
- Reservations: Camping spots are first-come, first-served, with online advance reservations recommended.
Mount Seymour Provincial Park »
Mount Seymour campground is a popular destination among residents of the Lower Mainland, especially during winter. The park is renowned for its viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of Vancouver, Mount Baker, and Say Nuth Khaw Yum (Indian Arm) Provincial Park. Activities included skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
- Address: 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L3
- Phone: 604-986-9371 or 1-800-689-9025
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/mount-seymour-park/
- Type of Camping: Vehicle Accessible and Walk In (Hike or Bike) Camping
- Fees: Dormant Season (October 9 – May 14): $18 per party / night; Peak Season (May 15 – October 8): $30 per party / night
- Number of Campsites: There are 40 sites all available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Amenities: Fishing, fire pits, hiking, wildlife watching, picnic tables, and pit toilets.
- Reservations: Advance reservations are not available. The park is open year-round, but campsites are only available during the summer months.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park »
Spanning 10 hectares of evergreen forest along the banks of the Englishman River, this park offers unparalleled natural beauty. There are two large cascading waterfalls that occupy the park, a beachfront shoreline with picnic areas, biking & hiking trails, in addition to several trails that offer scenic views of rich river valleys. This is a great spot for families looking for a quiet, picturesque camping getaway.
- Address: 1005 Island Hwy East, Parksville, BC
- Phone: 250-248-7126
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/englishman-river-falls-park/
- Type of Camping: Front country camping
- Fees: $25 per night for vehicle accessible campsite and $10 per night for walk-in camping.
- Number of Campsites: 97 campsites, which includes 94 standard sites and 3 group sites.
- Amenities: Drinking water, picnic areas, pit and flush toilets, showers, a sani-station, and a playground.
- Reservations: Reservations can be made online for some of the campsites, while others are first-come, first-served.
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park »
Juan de Fuca is located along the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island and includes 43 km (27 mi) of wild pacific ocean shoreline. With stunning views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and Olympic Mountains and activities like kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking, the area is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Vancouver Island. Visitors can enjoy beaches and picnic areas while watching the wildlife.
- Address: 1824 Harbour Rd, Victoria, BC V9C 1J5
- Phone: 250-474-1336
- Website: https://bcparks.ca/juan-de-fuca-park/
- Type of Camping: Vehicle Accessible Camping, Hike In/Wilderness Camping
- Fees: Fees vary depending on the type of camping and timing of stay, however vehicle accessible Friday night to Monday morning camping costs around $28 per night for 2 people as of May 2020.
- Number of Campsites: The campgrounds are organized into three areas: China Beach, Mystic Beach, and Sombrio Beach.
- China Beach has 78 campsites, including 75 standard sites and 3 group sites.
- Mystic Beach has 29 campsites, all of which are walk-in sites.
- Sombrio Beach has 55 campsites, including 51 standard sites and 4 group sites.
- Amenities: drinking water, food lockers, pit and flush toilets, showers, a sani-station, and a picnic area.
- Reservations: Reservations can be made online for some of the campsites, while others are first-come, first-served.
Pacheedaht Campground »
Pacheedaht Campground is located directly off picturesque Highway 14, near Port Renfrew, British Columbia. Surrounded by giant Douglas fir trees on a sweeping sandy beachfront, with views of the spectacular offshore islands, it offers one of the most peaceful camping experiences in Canada. Relax by a campfire on the beach or explore several nearby hiking trails winding through forests and meadows to waterfalls. Immerse yourself in mountain vistas overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Canada’s West Coast wilderness.
- Address: 393 Pacheedaht Lane, Port Renfrew, BC V0S1K0 Phone: (250) 647-5605
- Website: n/a
- Type of camping: Tent, Cabin, RV. Drive-in sites and walk in sites are available.
- Fees: Drive-in $25 per party/night; Walk-in $15 per party/night; Extra Vehicle Fee – $7/vehicle/night.
- Number of Campsites: There are 44 campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabin rentals.
- Amenities: Beach access, café, general store, playground, showers and washrooms.
- Reservations: Pacheedaht is a private campground and all sites are first-come, first-served. There is no website or phone available.
Klahanie Campground »
Klahanie campground is located across from Shannon Falls and the Sea to Sky Gondola, offering breathtaking views of the waterfall, The Chief, Howe Sound, and Mount Garibaldi Towering cedar trees provide a shady canopy over the campsites located between Rattlesnake Lake and Echo Point Trailhead. Three loops lead to multiple trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching and fishing. All camping areas have access to restrooms, piped water and fire rings for cooler summer nights to warm up around the campfire or roast marshmallows. Wildlife include great blue herons, bald eagles and elk.
- Address: 11610 SE Ridge St, Snoqualmie, WA 98065
- Phone: (425) 888–1421
- Website: https://klahaniecampground.com/
- Type of camping: Tent and RV campground
- Fees: $20/night (water and electric hookups), $15/night (tent rental only); group sites available.
- Number of Campsites: The park offers 100 campsites
- Amenities: Fire-pits, flush toilets, internet access, picnic tables, private showers, washing stations.
- Reservations: Klahanie is a private campground that is open year-round. Campsites can be reserved online through their website, or on a first-come, first-served basis.
FAQs
What activities are available at Porteau Cove Provincial Park?
Porteau Cove Provincial Park offers activities for visitors of all ages, including tent camping, hiking, swimming, diving, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, guided nature walks, wildlife viewing, and educational workshops.
What are the hiking options at Alice Lake Provincial Park?
Alice Lake Provincial Park hiking trails include the popular 6.5 km Four Lakes Trail loop that takes visitors around all four lakes, the 3 km Stump Lake Trail that ends at a lake, and the 3.5 km Cheakamus River Trail that follows the river.
What are the swimming options at Alice Lake Provincial Park?
There are two designated swimming areas within the park, one at Alice Lake and one at Stump Lake. Both areas have sandy beaches and are supervised by lifeguards during the summer months. Visitors can also swim in the other lakes within the park, but there are no designated swimming areas and no lifeguards on duty.
Can I bring my dog to these campsites?
A2. It depends on the campsite. Some campsites allow dogs on leashes, while others do not allow pets at all. Be sure to check the rules and regulations of each campground before bringing your dog.
Do these campsites have amenities like showers and toilets?
Yes, all of the campsites on this list have amenities like showers and toilets. Some even have laundry facilities and playgrounds.
Can I book a campsite online?
Most of the campsites can be reserved online at https://camping.bcparks.ca/. However, privately owned websites may or may not offer online reservations. Be sure to check the website of each campground for more information.
Q5. What kind of outdoor activities can I do at these campsites?
A5. The campsites on this list offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and exploring nearby beaches and trails.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Vancouver and Vancouver Island offer a plethora of great campsites for families and solo campers alike. From the expansive sandy beaches of Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to the heavily forested environment of Paradise Valley Campground, there’s something for everyone.
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