Camping in Cowichan Valley

The Cowichan Valley is a scenic highlight for campers on BC’s Vancouver Island.

95% (4416 reviews)
95% (4416 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Cowichan Valley

Community favorites in and near Cowichan Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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12 top campgrounds in Cowichan Valley

99%
(44)

Forest Hideaway

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Duncan, BC
Hi! We’re your hosts, Seth, Jodie, and Megan Williams. Recently we decided to share our property that we love and have enjoyed so much for two reasons: to give others the opportunity to enjoy it and to put money away for university. Our parents, Mark and Sarah, got behind the vision and are excited to be part of this project with us. We would describe our property as: home…and a really fun place to grow up! Our parents thought that wasn’t descriptive enough for Hipcamp so they’ve helped us describe it more. We live in a quiet neighbourhood in a forest that has been a source of peace, relaxation, and fun for us in our growing up years. We’ve noticed that people who visit here say they feel the same way. With plenty of space for kids to explore and adults to relax, our 3 acre forest is perfect for down time with a book in the hammock or a nature walk before dinner. Amenities and service: A single, tidy campsite with picnic table surrounded by mature and gently manicured forest, as well as a hammock, and a new construction outhouse. (Go dad!) We love hospitality, so though we won’t always be around when you’re here, if we are and you need something you can simply ask and we’ll do our best to provide what you need. To help you feel welcome we provide a fresh, cool jug of drinking water and large container of fresh potable water as well as access to an outside tap to fill water containers if needed (upon request) , power to charge devices (upon request), and a campfire ring with firewood (sorry about the frequent fire bans. Huge bummer. We will post current fire ban status while you’re here.) Surroundings and local attractions: Our property is situated in a low traffic rural residential area within ¬ 3 km to Sandy Pool Regional Park (5 min) A family favourite! ¬ 10 km to the Cowichan Valley Museum (Duncan Totem Tour) (13 min) ¬ 14 km to the Pacific Northwest Raptor Center (15 min) ¬ 19 km to the Hand of Man Museum (20 min) ¬ 20 km to Lake Cowichan (16 min) for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc Note: Lake Cowichan is also home to ‘The Tube Shack’ where you can rent tubes to float down the Cowichan River and catch the Tube Shack Bus back to your car. We do it every summer! Fun fact! It’s a 10-minute bike ride from our house to the Cowichan Valley Bike Trail. *(All destinations calculated from our dining table by Google maps) There are multiple well known hikes within 20 minutes (we suggest googling Stoney Hill Trail, Mt Tzouhalem, and Mt. Prevost.)
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CA$40.50
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98%
(49)

Sunshine Coast Green Zone

3 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Gibsons, BC
This property was purchased nearly half a century ago. For the majority of this time the forest section you will be camping in was left undeveloped, apart from a few mountain bike trails. Recently, as a family, we have seen a large increase in the people traveling to the Sunshine Coast to escape the city limits. Unable to rock up to a campsite and pick our spot like we used to, it was easy to see a growing demand. We have taken everything we love about camping and done our best to give you a sense of what life on the Coast is really about. Please note: By entering onto the property you release all liabilities towards us as hosts. You are choosing to camp in a forested area that contains many hazards as well as potential threats. These include but are not limited to; Wild life (bears, bob cats, cougars etc), Fire is a serious threat to this region during summer months strict no smoking policy is in effect. Care should be taken walking around uneven surfaces. All campers are required to stay within camp boundaries fail to follow these protocols will result in being asked to leave. Please respect this piece of land as much as we do. ~Hope you enjoy your time on the Sunshine Coast
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CA$54
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93%
(7)

Mountainaire Campground and RV Park

86 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Nanaimo, BC
Nestled on a beautiful 40-acre park, our Campground and RV Park provides a relaxed, natural atmosphere perfect for family fun. Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver Island, just beside the Nanaimo airport (a 5-minute drive) and approximately 20 minutes by car from both ferry terminals connecting to Vancouver. Featuring 30 and 50 amp fully or partial-serviced sites, ample green spaces, and cozy on-site RV Glamping units and cabins tucked away in the woods, Mountainaire is your ideal starting point or departure spot for a Vancouver Island vacation. Enjoy our newly renovated bathrooms, warm showers, and on-site laundromat, along with the added convenience of an onsite store. Take a short hike through the rainforest to the breathtaking Crystal Bowl for activities like river swimming, cliff diving, kayaking, or even crayfish catching with your little ones. Young campers can bike down ramps, play in the playground, and witness the fascinating transformation of tadpoles into western toads (a species at risk). Don’t miss our renowned special events and unwind with a Friday night movie accompanied by free popcorn. PARK AMENITIES: Lots of mature trees, green space and ramps. Bring your bikes. Outdoor playground with loads of fun Convenience store and Arcade Washroom and showers Laundry room Rainforest trail to the Crystal Bowl of Nanaimo River Pond Horseshoe pits Beach volleyball court Outdoor stage
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CA$37
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79%
(185)

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.
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CA$80
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99%
(56)

Wild Coast Parksville Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent8 acres · Nanoose Bay, BC
Learn more about this land: We have a clean, open, level and private CAMP SITE ready to go! You must have your own trailer or tent. We’re a 5-minute drive to Rathtrevor beach/Parksville, Englishman River. We are right in the middle of an extensive trail network perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding.  There is plenty of space for RVs and trailers - we can accommodate vehicles up to 45ft in length. 30 amp Electrical and potable water hookups are available. WI-FI onsite as well. Private site yet close to all amenities. Local favourite Rocking Horse Pub is a quick walk and a must-stop for dinner and drinks!  Centrally located on Vancouver Island, it’s a perfect spot to set up the rig and day trip out to Rathtrevor, Little Qualicum, Coombs, Port Alberni valley and Nanaimo, or go for an overnighter in Victoria, Tofino, Mount Washington and the Comox Valley. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban and we have dry firewood for sale onsite and pets are welcome. PLEASE NOTE that this is a campsite and the trailers in the photos are not for rent.
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CA$50
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94%
(90)

Island Gertie

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Gabriola Island Trust Area, BC
The Gertie Bus is located a 5 min walk to a beautiful white sand beach (at low tide). There are walking trails all around and lots of beach access. Tucked into the front of our property in the quiet of Gabriola island you’ll find the converted Gertie bus with all the amenities you need. The bus has a gas stovetop/oven, bar fridge and sink with grey water system. Equipped kitchen and sofa area to hang out. The standard queen bed is great for sleeping in and relaxing with that second cup of coffee. Mountain biking, hiking, swimming and whale watching are just steps away. There is beach access across the street through a private park with picnic tables, a very old eagles nest and a private access to a rocky beach perfect for sunsets. The home itself has a pottery studio on the main floor with a full time studio Practice. Give Paige a ring if you’d like a tour, she’s usually working away. Our family lives on the top floor. Outside the bus is are lush veggie gardens, fruit trees and a nice private outdoor dining area. A BBQ and solar lights also help with evening hangouts. Family friendly! Also we love animals but we ask that you clean up after your pet and keep any animals that aren’t so great with kids and other animals on leash. We have a dachshund on the property that is friendly and old ( barks at strangers but is all bark I assure you, he just wants to be friends)
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CA$83.30
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93%
(41)

Riverside Mini Goat & Pony Farm

2 sites · RVs20 acres · Parksville, BC
Enjoy the tranquillity of our 20-acre farm, surrounded by the Little Qualicum River and old-growth forest. We have 2 riverfront campsites that feature their own beach, the remaining 2 sites are along a stunning tree line of old growth forest. These sites offer more shade than our river front sites and are a short walk to the river. Several of our sites can accommodate up to a 40 foot trailer. We are an RV site only as we currently do not offer rest room facilities. They are under construction currently. We will soon be able to offer an our door shower and flush toilets! The farm is a 5-minute walk to the beach, a 5-minute drive to town, as well as 5 minutes to the local golf course. The river has many wonderful places to float along, as well as some incredible swimming holes. It is a favourite place for river fishing during the fishing season. Our farm has mini goats, lambs, pigs, ducks, chickens, cows, turkeys and rabbits. we are happy to take you on a tour upon request. Our farm is on a natural breeding ground for bald eagles so it is near certain that you will see several of them each day. Our campground is for those who appreciate nature, enjoy private campsites, and support local farmers.
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CA$44.10
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95%
(91)

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.
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CA$35
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86%
(176)

Beautiful Rainforest Camping Along the Cowichan River

28 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · East Sahtlam, BC
In the heart of the Cowichan Valley and along the pristine Cowichan river this breathtaking acreage offers nothing short of an incredible experience. Explore our endless rainforest trails, with multiple beaches, tubing, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, campfires, volleyball, swimming in the famous Robson pool and kicking back and enjoying nothing but the sound of water and birds.You may catch a glimpse of many of the local resident animals including semi-wild horses.We have 10 campsites available for tent campers. Amenities include a toilet, potable water and a picnic table.Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, pets are welcomeCowichan River Provincial Park is a 15-minute drive. If it’s outdoor recreation you’re after, Cowichan River is the place to go. Whether you want to go swimming, canoeing, white-water kayaking, tubing, camping, fishing or hiking, or just want to take it easy in the sun, you’re bound to find something to do in this “recreation corridor” south of Duncan.
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CA$62.10
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Under $50

Star Hosts in Cowichan Valley

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

Camping in Cowichan Valley guide

Overview

In the southern region of Vancouver Island is a scenic valley where temperate climates create a unique cultural center: the Cowichan Valley.  This area has the right combination of rich soils and mild temperatures to host vineyards, orchards, and productive farmlands year-round—not to mention incredible camping.Between visits to cideries and artisan markets, hit the trails to experience the Cowichan Valley’s hiking, mountain biking, and Cowichan Valley camping, from secluded tent campsites and amenity-rich RV parks to cozy cabins. From lowland routes to steep mountain climbs, the valley has something for every skill level.

Where to go

Watch the Wildlife

Diverse Cowichan Valley ecosystems offer a wide range of wildlife watching opportunities. Take a whale watching tour off the coastline, or stay inland to watch Roosevelt elk roam the hills and valley near Youbou. A number of estuaries attract diverse bird species, while sea lions and seals are prolific along the shorelines. Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park is a special protected wilderness offering permitted backcountry camping.

Test Your Legs on the Trails

Hiking is a favourite activity among Cowichan Valley campers thanks to extensive trail systems and a varied terrain that means you might find yourself navigating a peak one day and a coastline the next. Mount Prevost and Mount Tzouhalem are two of the more challenging peaks, but the views at the top make each well worth the effort. For a mild hike (or bike), try the Cowichan River Trail at the valley floor. Cowichan Lake, the Cobble Hill Mountains, and Heather Mountain are just a few of the many notable trail systems waiting to be explored, some of which run through Cowichan River Provincial Park

Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park

This park is home to a significant percentage of the largest old-growth Sitka spruce in British Columbia. Gnarled cedar trees are also estimated at more than 1,000 years old in parts of the park, which also features great trail systems and camping sites with backcountry and wilderness designations. Daytrippers can enjoy the picnic sites between hikes, as well as scenic drives in and around the area.

Cowichan Bay and the Coast

Conveniently located adjacent to the coast, the Cowichan Valley is also loaded with opportunities where the land ends. Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay, Crofton, and Maple Bay are some of the prominent coastal communities where campers can launch on guided boat excursions or sit back and enjoy the sunset while eating at a local waterfront restaurant. These communities offer great wildlife watching, places to walk along the shore, and opportunities to charter boats for fishing and touring.

When to go

The beauty of the Cowichan Valley is the pleasant climate. Summer temperatures are rarely hot, with daily average highs peaking in the low 70s. Although summer is perfect for outdoor fun in the Cowichan Valley, there really isn't a bad month to visit the valley. British Columbia is notoriously cold throughout the winter months, but this valley offers refuge. Winter temperatures are cool, but they tend to stay above freezing, which makes it possible to continue recreating outside without gearing up for full winter weather. Expect occasional rain throughout the winter in addition to plenty of sunny days. Rain can muddy trail conditions, but otherwise, it should have little impact on your ability to enjoy the outdoors.

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