This winter has seemed to go on forever! It’s been cold and rainy so long that I almost forget what warm, sunny days feel like. But, it won’t be long before they’re here and I can’t wait! In anticipation of those warm, sunny days and with vacation season approaching, I thought I would tell you about 5 great places to tent camp near Vancouver, BC.
Golden Ears Provincial Park
Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of the largest parks in British Columbia. It gets its name from the twin mountain peaks nearby called the Golden Ears.
The park has a large system of hiking and horseback riding trails. There is swimming, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, wind-surfing, etc., on beautiful Alouette Lake.
Most of the park is day use only in the winter with camping allowed only at the Gold Creek Campground. In the Summer the camping spaces fill up quickly as this is one of the most popular parks in the area, so reserve early.
Amenities include: firewood, fire pits, pit and flush toilets, cold running water, boat rentals, double sites, wheelchair accessible areas, free hot showers, and on-site host. More information
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
The China Beach campground at Juan de Fuca Provincial Park was voted one of the top camping sites in the Northweat by Sunset Magazine. And, for good reason.
It can be difficult to get to, however, and not all motor vehicles may be able to navigate the road, especially after a heavy rain. It is so worth it when you get there, though!
The campground is right on the coast of Vancouver Island and you can camp right on the beach. The Juan de Fuca trail covers a hefty 47 kilometers (29.2 miles) and can be dangerous after stormy weather.
Amenities include: double sites, pit toilets, cold running water, firewood, fire pits, wheelchair accessible sites More information
Alice Lake Provincial Park
Alice Lake Provincial Park is situated in a gorgeous, scenic area. It’s surrounded by thick forests, mountains and grassy areas. The Four Lakes Trail is a favorite 6 kilometer (3.7 mile) hike that takes you past all four lakes in the area.
An easier hike is the trail around Alice Lake. There are bears in the area, so securing food and keeping your campsite free of garbage are musts! With its beautiful vistas, fishing and swimming areas, this park is the perfect family camping getaway.
Amenities include: hot and cold running water, electrical hook-ups, firewood, fire pits, double sites, pit and flush toilets, free hot showers, wheelchair accessible sites. More information
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Named after nearby Mt. Garibaldi, this park is renowned for it’s gorgeous scenery and 90 kilometers (55.9 miles) of hiking trails. Garibaldi Lake campground is a favorite with its great swimming and fishing spots.
There are few amenities at this park, so this is only for the die-hard “roughing it” enthusiasts. There is no running water or garbage receptacles. Always leave no trace!
Amenities include: pit toilets More information:
Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park [aka Indian Arm Park]
With activities like scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, motor boating and hiking, this park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! The amazing landscape around the park features lakes, creeks, mountains, forests and numerous waterfalls.
The The 50 meter (164 feet) high Granite Falls is an absolutely spectacular must-see! July through October visitors to the park get to witness the pink salmon run.
This park is a conservation area and camping is prohibited in some areas. Campfires are prohibited in all areas of the park, so keep this in mind if you plan to camp overnight. As always, leave no trace!
