Discover Salt Spring Island's Best Campgrounds

Salt Spring Island embodies the quintessential west coast camping experience in British Columbia, offering stunning landscapes, delicious local food, and a laid-back vibe. The island's narrow roads are not ideal for large RVs, making it a haven for tent camping, biking, and hiking enthusiasts.

Camping at Ruckle Provincial Park on Salt Spring Island, BC

At 27 kilometers long and 14 kilometers wide, the island is small enough to drive across in under an hour, but you'll want to take your time to soak in the local culture and natural beauty. Renting a car from Vancouver is a convenient option for those looking to explore the island at their own pace. The island offers a few campgrounds, each with its own unique charm, starting from the southern point at Fulford Harbour.

1. Ruckle Provincial Park

Ruckle Provincial Park is a camping gem located on the southeastern tip of the island. The park is a 486-hectare area with historic significance and a working farm. Campers can enjoy fresh local produce from nearby stands, including the Ruckle farm stand within the park.

The park is particularly friendly to tent campers, offering 78 walk-in sites with stunning ocean views. Wheelbarrows are provided to transport gear to the sites, which are nestled among mature forests and grassy meadows. Amenities include picnic tables, fresh water spigots, and firewood sales, though summer fire bans are common.

Ruckle Park is fully reservable, and it's recommended to book in advance. Nature trails offer peaceful walks, and the coastline is rich with wildlife, including orcas and sea lions. For more information, visit the official site: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/ruckle/.

2. Mowhinna Creek Campground

Mowhinna Creek Campground is a thoughtfully designed site with 50 spots for both tenters and RV owners. The terraced layout offers privacy and charm, and the campground is well-equipped with immaculate facilities, including hot showers and a dishwashing station.

It's the island's top choice for RVs, with full-service sites available. Tenters have a variety of options, from walk-in to drive-in sites. The campground is within walking distance to Ganges and its farmer's market, and it's a short trip to Mount Maxwell's hiking trails. For more details, check out the official site: https://mowhinnacreekcampground.com/.

3. Garden Faire Campground

Garden Faire Campground offers a whimsical camping experience near downtown Ganges. With over 20 years of operation, the campground features 40 sites, each with its own artistic touch. The campground is rustic, with spigot showers and pit toilets, and caters to tenters and smaller RVs.

Visitors can enjoy the proximity to town amenities, including internet service, and the nearby Mouat Park. The campground is also close to a pool and dog park, making it a family and pet-friendly option. For more information, visit the official site: https://www.gardenfaire.ca/.