Convenience and the outdoors come together at campgrounds in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region.
Choose from an broad set of camping backdrops: alpine lakes and peaks, marine parks, hot springs or urban RV parks.
Go from Vancouver’s city lights to the wide open skies of the wilderness in under two hours. Camp and fish along the Fraser River, kayak to campgrounds on the Sunshine Coast, or hike to backcountry campsites in Golden Ears Provincial Park or Garibaldi Provincial Park for incredible views of the Coast Mountains.
RV and Car Camping Highlights
Provincial Parks
Manning Provincial Park and Golden Ears Provincial Park have the most vehicle accessible provincial park campsites in the entire province – more than 750 combined. Both are east of Vancouver (Manning near Hope; Golden Ears near Maple Ridge) and have extensive hiking trail networks and lakes. Backcountry camping is also available.
Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park’s campground is north of Whistler (a few hours from Vancouver), and worth the trip. Stay at one of 79 campsites and swim in the cool lake to beat the summer heat and soak in the mountain scenery.
Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is an ideal Fraser Valley camping destination (146 sites). Hike and walk on trails that wind through the park, and paddle, motor-boat or fish on Chilliwack Lake.
Sasquatch Provincial Park, near Harrison Hot Springs, provides the choice of four lakes (including large Harrison Lake) and three campgrounds (177 campsites). Swimming, biking, trout fishing and paddling will keep young campers happy.
Sandy beaches line the edge of Porpoise Bay Provincial Park on the Sunshine Coast. Families will enjoy the playground and grassy areas. In addition to 85 vehicle-accessible campsites, there is a cyclist-only camping area.
Private Campgrounds & RV Parks
Private campgrounds with RV or tenting sites offer convenient access and facilities ranging from basic to deluxe.
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region has 55 private campgrounds and RV parks. They are distributed throughout the region: east of Vancouver towards Hope, north of Vancouver towards Whistler, along the Sunshine Coast, and in the Fraser Canyon towards Lytton. Some sites are near rivers, the ocean, or hot springs. Many are close enough to visit Vancouver attractions on a day trip.
Recreation Sites
Three nice recreation sites – Thurston Meadows, Allison Pool, and Tamihi Creek – line the banks of the Chilliwack River. Bring your fishing gear; the river is known for its steelhead. Kayaking is popular, and the Trans Canada Trail winds nearby for hikers, walkers and cyclists. RVs can access all three campgrounds, which vary from large grassed areas to forested sites.
On the Sunshine Coast (north of Powell River), Dinner Rock Recreation Site is set right next to the ocean and is great for divers. Enjoy fantastic views of Texada Island, Savary Island, and boats passing by. The campground is wheelchair accessible with a boat launch and a dozen sites.
Backcountry and Wilderness Camping
Provincial Parks
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to iconic Garibaldi Provincial Park (near Whistler) year round. This park is big in size and in scenery; Black Tusk peak is the lofty goal for many hikers. Backcountry campsites are set next to lakes, mountains and alpine meadows.
Like many parks of the Sunshine Coast, Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park is only accessible by water. It’s a favourite with boaters and paddlers. Pocket bays, small islands and minimal camping facilities create a true wilderness camping feel.
When to Go Camping
Camping season is generally mid-May to early September; some sites are open later, earlier or year-round. July and August are busiest; May, June, September and October are great camping months – fewer crowds! Reservations are recommended for popular locations or during public holiday weekends.
Planning a Camping Trip
- General information about fees, reservations and facilities can be found at Camping in BC. For more details about where to camp, plus photos, visit Camping & RV in BC.
- Phone or stop in at Visitor Centres for local camping knowledge or directions.
- Campfires may or may not be permitted, depending on the campground and if there is a campfire ban in effect.
- Some campgrounds are pet-friendly. Check in advance to be sure.
- Play a part in protecting BC's forests. Abide by local park rules, exercise caution and ensure all fires are extinguished. To report a forest fire within BC from a cell phone, call *5555.
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