Beach camping in British Columbia with swimming

A vast wilderness of mountains, backcountry trails, temperate rainforests, and a sprawling waterfront.

94% (1953 reviews)
94% (1953 reviews)

Popular camping styles for British Columbia

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in British Columbia

12 top beach campgrounds in British Columbia with swimming

79%
(184)

Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Tsawwassen, BC
Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat. “Imagine if you will, the setting sun, orange, huge, resting atop the Gulf Islands. The breeze is blowing inland today, bringing along scents of salt air, and all is well. A bald eagle glides overhead, nearly close enough to catch you up to soaring heights. Even before the sun falls out of the sky the luminescent moon rises opposite. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is located in sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ Tsawwassen First Nation Traditional Territory. Conveniently located just minutes from the BC Ferries, easily accessible for travellers seeking a unique stopover. Directly behind Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat are Splashdown Water Slides, Tsawwassen Springs Golf Course, and Tsawwassen Mills Mall, one of the largest malls in Canada. Tsawwassen is surrounded by 6 beaches, one of which you can windsurf. There are many other amenities nearby for your added convivence. Bordered by the Fraser River to the north; Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank and the United States border to the south; and the Salish Sea to the west. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat is a private intimate retreat situated on oceanfront property, to gather with friends, family, and groups, or a beautiful quiet getaway by yourself to recharge. Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat also offers space for *Retreats *Weddings *Festivals *Birthdays* Holiday Parties* Corporate Parties* Receptions* Business Meetings* Bridal Showers *Family Events * Engagement Parties * Anniversary (inquire for more details, pricing etc.) The Glamping Tents are located on a large wooden deck, you'll find a sanctuary of opulence, wood-burning fireplaces, plush bedding, and carefully selected decor to create an ambience of tranquillity. Each tent has a private fire pit on the back of the tent. You can unwind and reconnect with nature while indulging in the modern amenities and conveniences we've thoughtfully incorporated into every aspect of your stay. We offer luxury glamping tents, that are nestled in nature underneath an eagle’s nest, that you can view from the luxury and privacy of your own glamping tent. There is a nearby wooden boardwalk that takes you to the beautiful beachfront where you can have picnics, bike rides, paddle boarding, bird watching, nature photography, and some breathtaking sunsets. Book your stay with us today and embark on a remarkable retreat that will leave you refreshed, renewed, and forever transformed. Welcome to Oceans Edge Eagle Retreat, your gateway to tranquillity and personal growth.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
CA$80
 / night
95%
(88)

Surrounded by Nature!

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Victoria, BC
Please note: we can only accommodate RV's, no tents, roof top tents, or car camping. You need to be fully self contained as there are no bathroom facilities and no nature pees! We are situated on 2 private acres completely surrounded by Elk Lake Regional Park. There are 3 generations of family living here as well as 2 dogs, a one-eyed cat, and chickens! Our campsite is in a beautiful location situated 20 minutes from the Swartz Bay Ferry terminal and downtown Victoria. Access to great hiking just out your door at Elk Lake Regional Park (a 5 min walk to the beach for a swim, paddle, or fish at the nearby fishing dock) and Bear Hill Regional Park (20 min hike through fir and arbutus trees with beautiful views of the peninsula from the top). 10 minutes to Butchart gardens, with Butterfly Garden on the way. Ideal spot for campers looking to stay 1-2 nights. Great as a stopover to Tofino. Perfect for couples or groups of two, with a maximum of 4 campers. There are many wonderful farms and stands, wineries, coffee shops, and restaurants close by. Your site is a semi-private flat gravel area surrounded by fir trees. Easy access and plenty of turnaround room.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
from 
CA$35
 / night
93%
(172)

Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat

16 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Halfmoon Bay, BC
Tiny Secrets Farm & Retreat is an Award-winning Glamping Nature Retreat. We are centrally located on the Sunshine Coast (only a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay) on a spectacular 10-acre ocean-view property. We run a small, organic farm and host guests in intriguing tiny homes and glamping tents. We have everything from a converted schoolie with a woodstove and an ocean view, furnished RV's with large decks, to gorgeous, furnished campsites in the woods. Check out our micro cabins, RV's, and assortment of glamping tents. Our property is a nature oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 20 minutes north of Sechelt, we're close to beaches and lakes. Enjoy our recreation area with a large pond (much smaller in the summertime), our small playground for young kids, and our small orchard with several small ponds. Explore our walking trails, visit our chickens, or sit near our seasonal waterfall. There are many spots on the property to sit and chill. We've also been Airbnb hosts for over 13 years.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
CA$34
 / night
98%
(207)

theDoighouse Earthship

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, BC
Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans, and concrete? Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, mere minutes from Qualicum Bay waterfront. Our location is a haven for adventurers and peace-seekers alike, offering easy access to the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. Just an hour north of Nanaimo, our property serves as an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Or don’t leave the island and spend the afternoon eating delicious fresh-made doughnuts at the famous Old Country Market in Coombs, home to the iconic goats on the roof, it’s only a 20-minute drive from our doorstep. Or 10 minutes to the waterfront and delicious ice cream at the Cone Zone. Stay local and discover forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes to an array of hiking paths, or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! Use your All Trails App to discover the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that it was the running shoes that were lost, not the people wearing them! Or stop here for a night en route to and from the mainland to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing, or if skiing is your calling, Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive away. You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our cozy tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff! Our Earthship, currently under construction, is all about exploring a low-impact lifestyle, off-grid living in an energy-efficient dwelling built from recycled materials. It is love for the planet, and people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive. Attend a group tour, or arrange for your own private tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project, and answering any and all questions you may have. We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events. On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily. Come visit, tour, and stay. Susan and Tony Doig
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
CA$35
 / night
94%
(132)

Murphy's Gold Creek Ranch

17 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Cranbrook, BC
I sold a business in Toronto and moved West in 1990 and drove all over North America looking for a new place to settle and raise a family. While camping in the Kootenay's I found this oasis and bought it. I have raised a family living totally off the grid since and love it. The water here is so clean and and the air is so fresh is why I stay. The night sky is so hard to explain it has to be seen to believe. Come check it out and you will agree. Learn more about this land: Enjoy camping on our 25-acre property just outside of Cranbrook, BC! We have multiple spots to choose from. You can camp beside the creek, in an open field, or up high with beautiful views of the valley. It all depends on your preferences and the privacy that you desire. We welcome tent and RV campers. If you're bringing an RV, there are sites that do not require levelling and we can accommodate vehicles up to 75ft in length. Bring your animals - there are a lot of great spaces for them to play! Our yard is equipped for horseback riding with a horse ring and stable.  The property is a great step-off point for ATV, dirt bikes, horseback and hiking adventures.  Potable water, toilet, picnic table, wifi and showers are available. Pets welcome, campfires permitted.  We are a 15-20 minute drive to Cranbrook. As the basecamp of the Kootenay Rockies, Cranbrook has it all - From all the trails one can dream of to multiple award-winning golf courses all within a 20-minute drive out of town, Cranbrook is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. PLEASE USE GOOGLE MAPS FOR CORRECT DIRECTIONS I look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
CA$39
 / night
92%
(268)

Hayward Farms

7 sites · Tents7 acres · Mission, BC
We have a 7 acre developing hobby farm currently with fruit trees, a garden, some chickens, a shepherd named Jack and a few cats. Our property backs onto Hayward Lake which is great for paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming. There are hiking trails to Ruskin Dam and around Hayward Lake. You can also enjoy fishing/floating across the street at the Stave River. You can also take a short drive (5 minutes) over the Ruskin Dam where there is a parking lot and a well groomed trail which takes you to a sandy beach area…perfect for children. Just be sure to get there early to secure a spot. Rolley Lake is also nearby…about a 10 minute drive, which is also great for having a picnic, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. It has a large designated swimming area too. A little further, at the North end of Hayward Lake is Hayward Park. This is another perfect picnic area with a large sandy beach area and designated swimming area. There are change rooms, showers and bathrooms. Lifeguards are on duty. Please get there early to get a spot. 2 km down Hayward Street, headed south, is a Starbucks as well as a few gas stations, Subway, Triple O’s and a Beer and Wine Store. Mission City is a 10 minute drive from our property. Please note that the trails to the lake from our property are not OUR trails and we are not responsible for grooming them. They are in fairly good condition and is a forest hike. The hike to the lake is about a 5 minute walk. There is one steep section so please make sure you wear proper footwear. The water access is from the shore. There is no beach at this location. You simply access the lake and either swim or relax on your floatation devices. Our driveway is a narrow, winding, uphill, gravel driveway that is 3/4 km long. It does have a few potholes (which we maintain annually). There are a few hairpin corners which can make it difficult for inexperienced drivers and for larger vehicles. Four-wheel drive is recommended, but not necessary. Take the corners wide and avoid cutting the corners too tightly. Avoid stopping on the driveway and just go slow and steady. We have 7 campsites to choose from, we hope that you enjoy your stay! Site 1 - Is located on one of the deep, hairpin corners of the driveway. This is a future glamp site location. This site faces the Stave River (west) where you have gorgeous sunsets. Site 2 - Is located above Site 1 at the next hairpin corner of the driveway (about 300 feet away), also facing west. This is also a future glamp site location. PLEASE NOTE THAT SITES 1 AND 2 ARE JUST OFF OUR DRIVEWAY, SO PLEASE EXPECT SOME MINOR TRAFFIC. THESE SITES HAVE A ROUGH TOILET SYSTEM - 5 GALLON BUCKET WITH WOOD SHAVINGS AND SNAP ON TOILET LID. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN TOILET PAPER. Site 3 - Our WEE LITTLE CAMPSITE. This is our smallest campsite. It too is located on our driveway; just adjacent to the driveway. Late spring and early fall you get beautiful sunsets. This site is good for 2 adults only (NO KIDS). It is located just above a large downhill slope. It too has a Rough toilet system / compost toilet. Again, because it is on our driveway please expect some occasional traffic passing by. We can make arrangements for you to park your vehicle elsewhere if you find the site is too tight…just send us a message. Site 4 - Is a field site located at the top of the driveway, immediately to the right. This is currently our largest campsite. It is a good spot for larger groups. Has a compost toilet as indicated above. Again - bring your own toilet paper. Site 5 - Is located at the top of the property behind the stables. It shares a pit toilet with Site 6 which is nearby. Please bring your own toilet paper. Sites 5 and 6 are perfect to book together if you have a larger group. Site 6 - Is located at the top of the property, behind the stables. It shares a pit toilet with site 5, which is nearby. BRING YOUR OWN TOILET PAPER. These two campsites are perfect for larger groups. These two campsites are closest to the trail that leads to the lake. Please note that the trail is not our property and belongs to BC Hydro. Some of our other campers may be walking through to access the trail. Note that sites 4, 5 and 6 are in proximity to our neighbours house, however there are a number of trees that do block the view to the neighbours house. OVERFLOW SITE - This site is reserved typically for campers with small children as it is located in our fenced in yard. No pets are allowed in this area. This has a compost toilet so please bring your own toilet paper. Note that we get our water from our shallow well. This well typically runs dry in the summer months, so we do not have drinking water available. We do have non-drinking water available at the house which is good for washing dishes if needed. However it is best that you bring your own drinking water. We do have plans for a more permanent water system in the future. Given that we are a small hobby farm we do have some chickens and a rooster. The neighbours also have a rooster so do expect to hear them early in the morning…this is part of the camping experience. We are also about 5 km from the train tracks and you will hear the trains occasionally at night. Note that we do not allow smoking on our property simply to avoid the possibility of a forest fire. We do have two sit-on kayaks to rent if interested. If at any time you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us! We hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
CA$45
 / night
99%
(54)

Decourcy Meadows

1 site · RV4 acres · Ladysmith, BC
Decourcy Meadows is a peaceful forested site within a short walking distance to a safe local swimming beach. We are an RV-only campsite. The site is level and can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. Electrical, sewage, and potable water hookups included. Amenities include a picnic table, wifi and a fire ring and some fire wood supplied at no cost. If there is a campfire ban in effect we will provide a propane campfire. The property is about half natural forest and so it's not unusual to see local critters, large and small peeking out! There are several hiking trails in the area and local parks as well. There are 3 artisans on Decourcy Drive. The world-famous Crow and Gate pub is 4 km from here and the historic Wheat Sheaf Hotel (Pub) is about 5 km. Local restaurants and Cafes, Groceries, Pharmacy are 5 km. We are a quiet country getaway located 25 minutes from Nanaimo Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. Duke Point Terminal is about 20 minutes. Picturesque town of Ladysmith is about 25 minutes south and the very Unique town of Chemainus is 35 minutes and very worth seeing.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
CA$20
 / night
100%
(8)

Coastal Mountain Retreat

4 sites · Lodging, Tents160 acres · Tofino, BC
🌊✨ Embark on an Unforgettable Journey to the Wilderness of Vancouver Island! ✨🌲 Imagine stepping away from the noise of everyday life and into a realm where nature reigns supreme—this is not just a camping trip; it's a transformative experience amidst the untouched beauty of Vancouver Island's coastal waters! As you make your way to this sacred land, you’ll discover that the journey is just as enchanting as the destination. Board a boat or float plane and feel the thrill of adventure as you glide through the stunning channels of the Clayoquot district, heading toward the serene Sydney Inlet Provincial Park. With each wave, you’ll sense the wild heart of nature calling you closer to tranquility. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an unspoiled paradise. Take in the majestic views from ancient old-growth forests, where towering trees stand as guardians of the land. Bask in the thrill of adventure with invigorating activities like hiking, bushcraft skills, and yoga sessions that connect your spirit with nature’s rhythms. Dive into the vibrant waters for a chance to catch fresh salmon or witness the awe-inspiring splendor of whales breaching in the distance. When the day draws to a close, unwind in the luxurious embrace of the Hotsprings Cove, where the warm waters cradle you while the stars twinkle overhead, reminding you of the magic all around. Here, we embrace sustainable living, honoring the gifts of the land while reveling in breathtaking views of the sweeping mountain ranges and the endless ocean. This unique location is more than just a camping site; it’s a family-run sanctuary—one that we are eager to share with adventurers like you! I’m Ron, the Steward of this spectacular land, and it fills my heart with joy to invite you to come explore our backyard. Together, we will create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s through guided adventures or simply sharing a meal around the campfire, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to nature and a renewed sense of wonder. So pack your bags and join us on this extraordinary journey! Discover a place where every moment is a celebration of the wild, where nature becomes your playground and serenity your companion. This is more than a getaway; this is an adventure waiting to unfold! 🌲🛶🌌
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
CA$68
 / night
100%
(7)

Raylia Cottage Farm Stay

2 sites · Lodging12 acres · Mayne Island Trust Area, BC
Available all year round! Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks.It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling -  along with modern conveniences.   It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family.  The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach.Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home.Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town.We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!Learn more about this land:Available all year round!  Located at the center of beautiful Mayne Island. Raylia cottage is situated on a 12-acre organically run farm, overlooking pasture and gardens, and backing on to one of the Gulf Islands' most spectacular parks. It offers tranquillity, peace and total privacy. Our cottage has an old fashion feeling -  along with modern conveniences.   It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a country farm experience with the family.   The cottage is centrally located, 5-minute walk to an organic grocer, spa and shops. Self-Catering, quiet, private and peaceful, 20-minute walk to the beach. Beautiful self-contained cottage with total privacy. Fully equipped kitchen. South facing deck for afternoon siestas. Cozy wood stove. Great for a family. Private and secluded for a couple. Four overly loving golden retrievers and lovey cats to make your stay feel like home. Close to all amenities, organic food store, bookstore, spa, restaurant. Backs onto National Park for great hiking. 20-30 minutes walk to 2 beautiful beaches and town. We want to make your stay on Mayne Island a beautiful one!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
CA$175
 / night
99%
(161)

Red Bell Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Duncan, BC
Access the Cowichan Valley Trail system right from our back yard! Easy access to either enjoy a leisurely walk, hike, bicycle, or horse ride along the trail to many destinations including Lake Cowichan, Shawinigan Lake, Duncan & more... or simply take in the beauty of the private pond area and picnic for the day with access to our Kitchenette with many extras! This is peaceful enjoyable tenting at its finest We have 4 pond tent sites, 1 RV site is situated away from the pond, and 1 camper-van site within a few steps to the pond for visiting your tenting friends; there is a shared bathroom, municipal water, fire-pit, and kitchenette a relaxing sitting area. Enjoy seeing what’s available at our small working hobby farm which includes eggs, chickens, and fresh berries, fruits, vegetables. 15min. to Lake Cowichan or travel 5min. to Duncan, Saturday is Farmers Market all year round and entertainment. Check out the "Duncan Showroom" or other venues for nightly live entertainment! Explore the many side streets for unique stores & food that is unique to Duncan. Did you know Duncan has 40 totem poles to find throughout the town? Visit local wineries, breweries, distilleries, Raptors bird Sanctuary, Hand of Man Museum, or many other sights! We’re also an easy drive away from Ladysmith, Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay (warmest ocean water on the island), or look for one of the largest Trestle bridges in North America... Just provide us with an idea of what you'd like to see and we can help with your adventure! Only 1hr from Victoria or Nanaimo.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
CA$39
 / night

Under $50

Available this weekend

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping in British Columbia with swimming guide

Overview

It’s hard to describe British Columbia as anything other than wildly breathtaking—quite literally when you swim in one of the province’s many turquoise glacier lakes, ride a wave, or catch a glimpse of a bear in the forest. For camping experiences and road trips, BC offers privately operated campgrounds and RV parks; a major network of parks with reservable and first-come, first-served tent camping sites; yurts and cabins; and thousands of recreation sites and trails on beaches, lakes, mountains, and meadows. Thanks to the mild climate and some winter huts, camping is possible year-round.

West Coast

The Pacific Ocean runs along the length of BC, offering plenty of oceanside spots to explore. On Vancouver Island, Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park are famous for cold-water surfing, whale watching, and hot springs, while nearby Ucluelet is a fisher’s paradise. Further inland, campers can find riverside camping in Squamish; backcountry huts around the resort town of Whistler; and reservable tent pads overlooking the jewel-toned Joffre Lake. For a true off-the-grid experience, head to Haida Gwaii's Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve—set about 100 kilometres off the northern British Columbia coast, this area is only reachable by sea or air.

Northern British Columbia

The northern part of the province is all raw, rugged beauty, with unique culture and untouched natural beauty. Soak in Canada’s second-largest hot spring in Fort Nelson, watch salmon spawning in the many rivers, and peek at bears catching some themselves at Kleanza Creek Provincial Park in Terrace. Options for outdoor stays include vast wilderness resorts, remote cabins, and private beach, lakefront, or rainforest campsites—but note that cell service and WiFi are rare in these parts. Bonus: Given its far north location, it’s relatively easy to snag last-minute campsites that still offer peace and quiet.

Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

With a blend of history, wildlife, adventure, and expansive grasslands, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is true Canadian countryside. Campers come to this wild western spot to spend time in the Great Bear Rainforest and at alpine rivers (whitewater rafting is big here), but travelers usually also visit lakeside fishing lodges and historic Gold Rush towns such as Barkerville. Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is a prime spot for the chance to spot a grizzly bear.

Kootenay Rockies

Set in the province’s southeastern corner and part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, the Kootenays are home to four national parks: Glacier, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho. Here you’ll find unrivaled wildlife—think black bears, mountain goats, and elk—much of which can be spotted even from the highway. Throughout the region are glaciers, peaks, waterfalls, and quirky little towns such as Golden, Cranbrook, and Kimberley, the highest in Canada at 1,113 meters up. Camping and tenting is typically open between May and September, with limited winter options.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.