British Columbia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and camping is a popular activity in the province. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, there is no shortage of excellent camping spots to choose from. Whether you prefer to pitch a tent or park your RV, British Columbia has something for everyone.
In this article, we will explore the best camping spots in British Columbia for 2023. We will provide an overview of the top 5 camping spots in the province, including their unique features and what makes them stand out. Additionally, we will cover the best campgrounds in BC Provincial Parks, which offer a range of amenities and activities for campers of all ages.
Key Takeaways
- British Columbia is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of camping spots to suit everyone’s preferences.
- The top 5 camping spots in BC for 2023 are diverse and unique, each with its own set of features and attractions.
- BC Provincial Parks offer some of the best campgrounds in the province, with a range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Overview of British Columbia Camping Spots
British Columbia is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of camping opportunities for those who want to experience the great outdoors. From provincial campgrounds to backcountry camping, there are plenty of options for everyone and many are vehicle accessible. Besides, some even offer winter camping spots.
Types of Campsites
Canada has a vast array of campsites to suit every type of camper. From backcountry campsites to frontcountry campgrounds, there is something for everyone. Here are the different types of campsites you’ll find in Canada:
- Frontcountry Campgrounds
These campsites are equipped with all the amenities to make your camping experience as comfortable as possible. Flush toilets, showers, potable water, and other facilities are available. They are also known as “car camping” and are probably the most popular type of camping in Canada. Parks Canada offers a variety of frontcountry campgrounds across the country, and you can find more information on their website. - Backcountry Campsites
If you’re looking for a more adventurous camping experience, backcountry campsites may be for you. These campsites are usually located in remote areas and require a hike or paddle to reach. They offer a more primitive camping experience, with basic amenities such as an outhouse and a bear cache. It’s important to always minimize your impact on the area and follow camping etiquette. - RV Parks
If you’re traveling in an RV, Canada has a wide selection of RV parks to choose from. These parks offer all the amenities you need for your RV, including electrical and water hookups, dump stations, and more. Some RV parks also offer cabins or tent sites for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience. - Provincial Parks / National Parks
Canada’s provincial parks offer a variety of camping options, from frontcountry campgrounds to backcountry campsites. Each province has its own park system, and you can find more information on their respective websites. Some popular provincial parks for camping include Alice Lake Provincial Park in British Columbia and Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario. - Private Campgrounds
If you’re looking for a more commercial camping experience, private campgrounds are available throughout Canada. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Some private campgrounds also offer cabin rentals for those who prefer not to camp in a tent.
No matter what type of camping you prefer, British Columbia has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a rugged wilderness adventure, there’s a camping spot in British Columbia that’s perfect for you.
Top 5 Best Camping Spots in BC 2023
British Columbia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning natural beauty, rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and vast wilderness areas. Camping in BC is a popular way to experience the great outdoors, and there are many fantastic campgrounds to choose from. Here are the top 5 best camping spots in BC in 2023:
1. Haida Gwaii // Agate Beach Campground
Haida Gwaii is a remote archipelago off the coast of BC, known for its rugged beauty, ancient forests, and rich First Nations culture.
Agate Beach Campground is located on the east coast of Graham Island, and offers stunning ocean views, beach access, and a variety of hiking trails. The campground has 40 sites, including 10 walk-in sites, and amenities include pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.
2. Shuswap Lake // Swan Lake Campground
Shuswap Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports, and Swan Lake Campground is a great place to stay while exploring the area. The campground is located on the east shore of the lake, and has 51 sites, including 18 with electrical hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits.
3. Mount Robson Provincial Park // Berg Lake Campground
Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and Berg Lake Campground is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers. The campground is located at the end of a 21 km trail, and offers stunning views of Berg Lake and the surrounding mountains. The campground has 26 sites, and amenities include pit toilets, food storage lockers, and picnic tables.
4. Summit Lake Provincial Park // Camp Valhalla
Summit Lake Provincial Park is located in the Selkirk Mountains, and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Valhalla Campground is located on the north shore of Summit Lake, and has 40 sites, including 11 with electrical hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits. There is even a biking track available on the campground.
5. Liard River Hot Springs Park // Liard River Hot Springs Campground
Liard River Hot Springs Park is home to the second-largest hot spring in Canada, and is a popular destination for relaxation and wildlife viewing. The campground is located near the hot springs, and has 53 sites, including 26 with electrical hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Whether you’re looking for a remote wilderness experience or a family-friendly campground with plenty of amenities, BC has something for everyone. From hiking and kayaking to wildlife viewing and beachcombing, camping in BC is a great way to experience the beauty of this incredible province.
The Best Campgrounds in BC Provincial Parks
British Columbia is home to some of the best camping spots in the world, and the provincial parks offer some of the most scenic with spectacular views, and well-maintained campgrounds in the province. Here are some of the best campgrounds in BC Provincial Parks, divided by region.
Camping near Vancouver
For those looking for a quick escape from the city, there are several great campgrounds near Vancouver. Porteau Cove Provincial Park is a popular choice, with its stunning views of Howe Sound and easy access to hiking trails and water activities. Other great options include Alice Lake Provincial Park and Cultus Lake Provincial Park, both of which offer electrical hookups and other amenities.
Camping in the Fraser Valley
The Fraser Valley is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the province, and the campgrounds are no exception. Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is a great choice for families, with its sandy beaches, playgrounds, and hiking trails.
Camping on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is a nature lover’s paradise, and there’s no better way to experience it than by camping in one of its stunning provincial parks. Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, located in Sechelt, is a popular choice with its vehicle/tent sites and easy access to the beach.
If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, check out the minimally maintained wilderness sites in Tetrahedron Provincial Park, which offer breathtaking views of the coast and easy access to hiking trails. Regardless of which park you choose, you’re sure to be surrounded by stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure
Camping on Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is home to some of the most scenic and diverse campgrounds in the province. Surf Grove Campground in Tofino, which is next to the Pacific Rim National Park, is a popular choice, with its stunning sunset views and easy access to the beach.
For those looking to explore the rainforest, there is also MacKenzie Beach Resort in Tofino and Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Parksville. Best ways to get to Vancouver Island is by Ferry from Horseshoe Bay or from Tsawwassen.
Camping in the Okanagan
The Okanagan is known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor activities, and the campgrounds are no exception. Okanagan Lake Provincial Park and Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park are great choices for families, with its sandy beaches and playgrounds.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there is also the beautiful Bear Creek Provincial Park, which offers hiking trails and fishing.
Camping in the Cariboo Chilcotin
The Cariboo Chilcotin region is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, and the campgrounds are no exception. Bowron Lake Provincial Park is a popular choice, with its beautiful lakes and hiking trails.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, there is also the beautiful Wells Gray Provincial Park.
Camping in the Kootenay Rockies &
Mount Robson Provincial Park
The Kootenay Rockies region is home to some of the most scenic campgrounds in the province, with stunning views of the mountains and forests. Kokanee Creek Provincial Park is a popular choice, with its beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, there is also the beautiful Mount Robson Provincial Park.
Camping in Northern British Columbia
Northern British Columbia is home to some of the most remote and beautiful campgrounds in the province, with stunning views of the forests and mountains. Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park is a popular choice, with its beautiful hot springs and hiking trails. For those looking for a more secluded experience, there is also the beautiful Kinaskan Lake Provincial Park.
Overall, British Columbia is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse campgrounds in the world, and the provincial parks offer something for everyone. Some are very popular campgrounds. So, make sure to either book your camping site in advance or be there as early as possible. It is not unusual that there is a first come first serve policy.
Summary
British Columbia is a camping paradise with stunning natural landscapes, breathtaking views, and a wide range of camping options. Whether you prefer roughing it in the wilderness or glamping in luxury, BC has something for everyone. From the rugged coastline to the snow-capped mountains, BC’s diverse geography offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventure.
BC’s provincial campgrounds are some of the best in North America, with well-designed sites and excellent facilities. Many of these campgrounds are located in scenic areas, offering easy access to hiking trails, lakes, rivers, and other outdoor activities. For those who prefer a more secluded camping experience, BC also has a wealth of off-the-radar campgrounds that offer peace and quiet away from the crowds.
One of the best things about camping in BC is the abundance of wildlife. From grizzly bears to bald eagles, BC’s wildlife is a sight to behold. However, it’s important to remember that these animals are wild and should be treated with respect. Visitors should always follow the rules and regulations of the park or campground they are staying in, and take precautions to avoid attracting wildlife.
Overall, camping in BC is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect camping spot for any budget or preference.
I rely on three tried and true methods to help me narrow down my options. First, I turn to Google and Google Maps to get a sense of the area and what’s available. Then, I check out the reviews on Tripadvisor to see what other campers have to say. Finally, I visit the BC Parks website for more information about provincial park campgrounds.
By using this approach, I can confidently create a list of preferred campgrounds that meet my needs and expectations. Trust me, finding the perfect spot can make all the difference in your camping experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time visitor, BC’s natural beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression. If you need some ideas for your next Western Canada adventure, visit my “Travel Ideas” section on my page.