30+ Best Campgrounds On Vancouver Island (Expat Approved)

Vancouver Island is an authentic and picturesque part of the province.

It’s heralded for offering scenic sights and an experience that’s going to give you goosebumps. For those who are thinking about camping on Vancouver Island, you are going to be spoiled for choice.

We have seen numerous campgrounds on Vancouver Island with each one being unique. It’s essential to pick the best campground for your needs and see how it is going to improve your experience as time goes on.

Here are the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island and why we like them.

Top Campgrounds On Vancouver Island

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

When it comes to the charming essence of Vancouver Island waterfalls, there is nothing better than the delightful Englishman River Falls Provincial Park.

It’s an adorable spot for those who are looking to enjoy a scenic camping spot that’s going to be remembered for a long time to come. It’s common for travelers to want to spend time here and enjoy the various trails around the campground.

Whether it’s the greenery, waterfalls, or trails, there is something beautiful about this park that is going to draw you in.

China Beach Campground in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

When it comes to residing in Vancouver, the locals will often talk about the China Beach campground.

This is a remarkable campground because it has access to the rainforest, which is quite a beautiful sight as soon as you step foot inside. A lot of people will feel like they have never been in such a unique spot in Canada when they start walking around.

This tends to be a great spot during the summer months and it’s common for people to enjoy the coastline when they are here.

We like this because it also has access to various hiking trails and you can get to enjoy the waterfall too.

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

The Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Vancouver is gorgeous and has long been cited for its beauty and charm.

We appreciate how easy it is on the eyes because this signifies its importance as a meaningful solution in the region.

Whether you want to spend a day here or more, you are going to adore Rathtrevor Beach.

The campsites are nearby and you get to enjoy the sand under your feet too. We often appreciate the greenery around the area and it’s also renowned for its wildlife.

Gordon Bay Provincial Park

For those who are comparing Vancouver to other Canadian cities, you will want to take a step back and look at the Gordon Bay Provincial Park.

This is a world-class natural sight.

We adore this spot because it tends to be a great spot for those who want to head into the water. It’s common for people to do a bit of fishing here or perhaps go for a dive in the water. This is a great option for those who love being out and about during the summer in Vancouver.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

The Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a top-tier option because it’s secluded.

A lot of people are not going to head out to this part of the island, which means it is going to give you more space to walk around and do your own thing when you are here.

We like this element of the trails because you are going to get more out of them when you are walking around.

It’s also a great option for those who want to see unique elements such as the rapids.

Kitty Coleman Provincial Park

The Kitty Coleman Provincial Park is one of those areas on the island that is going to speak to you.

We love this campground because it is along the oceanfront and it’s going to make it easy for you to settle in and just enjoy a bit of quiet time. This is not always possible with some of the other campgrounds on this list.

The park is also equipped with everything you will require to settle in. This includes shelter areas and boating spots.

We often see people spend days here because it’s a lot of fun.

Ralph River – Strathcona Provincial Park

When you are comparing options, you are going to know Ralph River is a hidden gem.

We often mention this spot when it comes to the pros and cons of living in Vancouver because you don’t get to see such natural beauty in other parts of the nation.

The campground is close to the forest and it tends to offer beautiful trails that are going to be accessible from all areas.

This is great for those who love being outdoors and just want to walk along the river.

Loveland Bay Provincial Park

Some people are far more adventurous than others.

If you are willing to get out there and try something new, it’s time to see what the Loveland Bay Provincial Park in Vancouver is all about.

We appreciate this location near Campbell River because it’s great during the summer months as the water starts to warm. You will often see people head out for a swim in Campbell Lake as it gets hot outside and you can also enjoy the campsite once you are there.

Schoen Lake Provincial Park

This is all about the mountain area.

You are going to be near Mount Schoen, which means you are going to get to see absolutely breathtaking views.

It is quite the site to see such a looming mountain nearby and it is going to add to the experience as soon as you settle in.

We find this to not be as well-equipped as some of the other campgrounds in the area but it is a lot of fun. You get to walk along trails that are going to require more out of you and it is going to make it a lot easier for those who enjoy the natural nature of Vancouver Island.

Sombrio Beach – Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

When it comes to simple hiking, you are going to want to put Sombrio Beach on your list.

It is one of those spots where you are going to begin to appreciate the wildlife while also getting to hike along a trail that is going to provide a proper glimpse of what the island is all about. This is due to how long it is.

You are going to have a hiking trail that is spread along 47 kilometers. Yes, it is that long!

This is ideal for those who have a lot of time because you are going to get to visit various parts of Sombrio Beach and then set up your camping area there.

What is the natural beauty of the park itself?

You are going to gain access to unique tide pools and waterfalls that are not seen in other campgrounds. This does add to the experience.

Sproat Lake Provincial Park

We like this provincial park because it’s accessible and easy to enjoy.

Most people don’t want to go for hidden paths that are hard to discover or deal with. Sometimes, you want a straightforward camping area that is going to allow you to settle in and then feel confident in how you are doing at the lake.

This is what you are going to get with Sproat Lake.

It has natural beauty and you are going to have ample space near the lake to simply take in the scene in front of you.

Strathcona Provincial Park

When people think about the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, it’s essential to consider camping in Strathcona Provincial Park.

This is a campground on Vancouver Island that is unique because it offers a more “authentic” camping experience than some of the other options on this list.

This means you are going to get to see waterfalls, mountains, and lakes that are all going to be within the same area.

This is a charming spot because you are going to adore working your way through the various trails. This is often an exciting campground because of these natural elements that you are not going to get to see in one trip when you’re heading out to other parts of the island.

Cape Scott Provincial Park

When it starts getting hot outside, you are going to want to come here.

Cape Scott Provincial Park is world-class because it is going to offer access to sandy beaches and salt marshes. You are going to get to set up at Nels Bight, which is a great spot for those who love being near the water.

It is common for people to walk around the area, spend time at the beach, and also enjoy the hike nearby. This natural beauty is hard to beat and it is quite relaxing too.

Spring Salmon Place Campground – Sooke Potholes Regional Park

We like this spot for those who are hoping to see some of the natural formations that have developed on Vancouver Island.

This is due to the layout of this campground.

It has been formed with the waterfalls and river nearby, which makes it easier to walk along the water and take in the natural scenes in front of you. We also find the camping areas to be spacious, which is great for those who want to go for a private experience that is quite calming.

Jordan River Regional Park Campground

Are you passionate about the beach experience in Vancouver?

This is a common requirement.

When that is the case, the Jordan River Regional Park Campground is the way to go. You are going to gain access to top-tier beach areas that are ideal for families.

You can set up a table here and enjoy great food along the water without having to think twice. The simplicity of this setup is what makes it great.

Pacheedaht Campground

This is another campground where you are going to get to be close to the Gordon River and it is going to offer access to sandy beach areas that are easy on the eyes.

Sometimes, the only goal is to rest under the sun with the water flowing nearby.

If that is what you want, the camping sights here at Pacheedaht Beach are the real deal. You are going to love the beach area and it is going to offer breathtaking views too.

Ucluelet Campground

This is one of the larger campgrounds when it comes to sites.

You are going to have 100+ campsites here and it is going to be easy on the eyes too.

You get to be close to the forest, while also getting to see the beautiful mountains in the background. This does make it appealing for those who want to be close to the mountain and also get to walk around close to the forest.

We also find this to be a hotspot for whales, which is never a bad thing.

Marble River Recreation Site

This is an area that a lot of people are not going to think about but it is a hidden gem.

The reason people don’t mention the Marble River Recreation Site has to do with it not being as developed as the others.

This means you get to be close to the Marble River and the forest, while also knowing the paths are not as developed. This is going to take you close to Bear Falls and also let you experience the terrain differently.

Raft Cove Provincial Park

This is a classic spot.

Raft Cove Provincial Park is appreciated for its gorgeous beach areas. The white sand under your feet is quite alluring and you are going to enjoy being on a trail that is quite different from the rest.

It is going to be far more beat up, which is going to take a lot more effort to walk around. However, we do love the beach and it is quite relaxing to settle here for a day or two.

Green Point Campground

This is a campground that is close to the forest.

Green Point Campground is not only close to the forest, but you are also going to be a short walk from the beach area.

This is useful for those who want to enjoy those views and continue along the trail to see the rest of the forested areas too.

Wya Point Campground

Whether it is the beautiful rainforest or the rock pools, Wya Point Campground is one of the better campgrounds on Vancouver Island.

Camping on Vancouver Island entails being immersed in the forested areas, enjoying the beautiful coastline, and soaking in the views.

If that’s what you are hoping for, the coastline here is exceptional.

You are going to like how well-equipped the area is and you are going to gain access to all of the important amenities required to enjoy a day or two here.

Free Spirit Spheres – Qualicum Beach

We recommend spending time here if you want to enjoy something different.

It’s common for people to book a spot at the resort here and enjoy the overall experience that comes along with it.

This is going to include the gorgeous access to the rainforest, while also being able to explore the trails nearby.

We like the overall ambiance in this location because it stands out and you are going to find it to be comfortable too due to the resort.

West Coast Trail

Certain trails are renowned on Vancouver Island and that’s what you are going to appreciate about the West Coast Trail.

What makes it special?

We adore how rugged the coastline is as it is going to stand out and you are going to adore the overall beauty of the trail.

Spring Salmon Place Campground – Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Spring Salmon Place Campground is world-class.

We adore this spot because it’s quaint, easy on the eyes, and is also quiet. This allows people to bring their families or even come on their own knowing they are not going to be bothered.

Plus, the waterfalls and rock pools are quite the sight.

This is an ideal spot for those who love going for a quiet swim or enjoying the various hiking trails in the area.

Pachena Bay Campground

You will know there is something special about the Pachena Bay Campground as soon as you walk onto the beach area.

The sand is exquisite.

It’s going to shine under the sun and you are also going to be close to the rainforest, which is only going to add to the experience. We find this to be a gorgeous spot for those who love being close to the water while also seeing a few of the nearby trails.

This is a great place and it is going to help you unwind.

WILDPOD Glamping

This is one of those spots where you are going to go to relax without all of the additional requirements that come with camping.

After all, this is “glamping” and it is going to be fun too.

You gain access to a pod on the campgrounds and that allows you to rest easy while also being able to soak in the views all around you.

Surf Grove Campground

This is a wonderful campground because it is set along the shoreline.

The shoreline is a visual treat and you are also going to gain access to the tent sites that are nearby. We adore this spot and feel the beaches are perfect.

You can walk along the shoreline, enjoy the sights, and also head for a surfing session if that is what you are into. It is common for people to take surf lessons here, which is why it is known as Surf Grove.

Bella Pacifica Campground

Bella Pacifica is one of those campgrounds that are going to bring a smile to your face.

We like this campground because it’s on Mackenzie Beach and it is going to be quieter than some of the other options that are around you.

This is appealing to those who want to be immersed in the forest area while also having access to the beach. You get to enjoy all of this here and it is going to be private too.

Alder Bay RV Park

When you are heading out to Vancouver Island, you are going to want a place that is exquisite, but also designed for a bit of hiking.

This is common for those who are hiking on Vancouver Island or thinking about camping on Vancouver Island for a few days.

if that is the case, you will want to head out to Alder Bay.

This is a beautiful spot because it is common for people to come out here and they also offer access to wildlife that’s not always possible in other parts.

Lizard Lake Recreation Site

This is a gorgeous site.

You are going to get to see greenery that is unique to this part of the island. This means it is going to be more noticeable and you are going to enjoy the trails that are set up here.

If that is what you want, you will appreciate how the recreation site looks from all angles.

It’s a wonderful spot and a must-see for those who want something far more private.

Pacific Yew Recreation Site

The final name on the list is going to be the Pacific Yew Recreation Site.

We enjoy this site because it is pristine and also beautiful. This makes it perfect for those who are coming with the family or just want to spend time in a cleaner area.

If that is what you want, you will adore what this recreation site is all about.

You also get to be close to Mohun Lake, which is always a plus point.

Final Thoughts

These are the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island for those who want to immerse themselves in this beautiful part of the province.

These campgrounds on Vancouver Island are the real deal.

We have taken the time to venture out and check out these campgrounds over the years and they do impress. Whether you want to see the waterfalls, tide pools, or forested areas, you are not going to want to miss out on these campgrounds.