Discover the Best Campgrounds on Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island's top campgrounds are nestled in its most stunning natural settings, from the Victoria area to the remote Cape Scott Provincial Park. Whether you're into surfing, kiteboarding, or hiking, there's a campground for you.
Summer, especially July and August, is peak camping season, so book early to secure a spot. Remember, many campgrounds are only open from May to September or October.
1. Surf Grove
Surf Grove in Tofino offers beachfront camping with modern amenities. With 190 sites for tents and RVs, and options for gear rental, it's a surfer's paradise. Enjoy the beach or dine at the nearby Long Beach Lodge.
Official site: https://surfgrove.com/
2. Wya Point Campground
Wya Point Campground offers secluded camping near Tofino. Set on a beautiful beach, it's perfect for tents and small RVs. Yurts are also available for rent, and the campground provides hot showers and flush toilets.
Official site: https://www.wyapoint.com/accommodations/oceanside-campsites/
3. China Beach Campground
China Beach Campground is a peaceful spot for camping and hiking, located near the Juan de Fuca Trail. With large, private sites among giant trees, it's a great base for exploring the area.
Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/juan_de_fuca/VehicleAccessibleCamping
4. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park Campground
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Parksville is a family favorite with a vast beach and warm, shallow waters. The campground offers both reservable and first-come, first-served sites.
Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/rathtrevor/
5. Goldstream Provincial Park Campground
Near Victoria, Goldstream Provincial Park offers a forested campground close to hiking trails and the convenience of the city.
Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/goldstream/
6. Green Point Campground, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Green Point Campground is the only one in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, offering privacy and proximity to Tofino's attractions. Reservations are recommended during peak season.
Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/camping
7. Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Resort
In Nanaimo, this resort offers a variety of sites and amenities, including trails, sports facilities, and proximity to shops and whale watching tours.
Official site: http://www.livingforest.com/
8. Jordan River Regional Park Campground
For kiteboarders and surfers, Jordan River Regional Park Campground offers oceanfront camping less than an hour from Victoria. Facilities are basic with pit toilets.
Official site: https://www.crd.bc.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/find-park-trail/jordan-river
9. French Beach Provincial Park Campground
French Beach Provincial Park is a short drive from Victoria, offering a beach, trails, and family-friendly camping. The campground is open year-round with reservable sites.
Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/french_bch/
10. Pachena Bay Campground
Pachena Bay Campground is near the West Coast Trail's northern terminus, offering forested and beachfront sites with full hookups. Access is via gravel roads, boat, or seasonal shuttle.
Official site: https://pachenabaycampground.ca/
11. Buttle Lake Campground, Strathcona Provincial Park
Buttle Lake Campground in Strathcona Provincial Park offers lakeside and forested sites for tents and RVs. Nearby Ralph River Campground is an alternative with vehicle-accessible sites.
Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/strath/
12. Saysutshun/Newcastle Island Campground
A short ferry ride from Nanaimo, Saysutshun Newcastle Island offers a car-free camping experience with beachfront and forested sites. The island is ideal for families and outdoor activities.
Official site: https://newcastleisland.ca/
For more camping options, check out the best campgrounds near Victoria and Tofino, as well as top attractions on Vancouver Island and outdoor activities in British Columbia.
