The best camping near Gwaii Haanas National Park

Home to the ancient Haida nation—one of the oldest traceable populations on the planet—this UNESCO World Heritage site is a destination that requires time, permits, and planning but comes with unique rewards. Wildlife is unparalleled here—you can go sea kayaking next to orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions, or paddle past black bears, puffin, and porpoises. With dozens of plant and animal species not found anywhere else on earth, the Gwaii Haanas islands have no roads and are only accessible by boat or seaplane. Designated campsites are nowhere to be found, so visitors can pitch a tent as they please once they arrive with the right permitting. Paddle into the Pacific, find epic surf, walk among giant trees, and swim in remote hot springs for a one-of-a-kind experience.

• Best for adventurers: Permitted wild camping is allowed in the park—just ensure you practice Leave No Trace principles and have the right information about the tides and weather.
• Best for amenities: Naikoon Provincial Park’s Agate Beach and Misty Meadows campgrounds have designated vehicle-accessible campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

1. Gwaii Haanas has no reservations for in-park dispersed camping.
2. Arrive early to score a first-come, first-served campsite in the islands’ Naikoon Provincial Park.
3. Most travelers visit the park with a local tour operator for easier access and a pre-planned itinerary.

August being the busiest periods. The number of daily visitors to Gwaii Haanas is limited, so even though camping reservations aren’t required, you need to verify your visiting dates, usually around six months in advance.

• All visits require trip permits bookable through Parks Canada, and all self-guided Gwaii Haanas visitors must attend an orientation session.
• You’re visiting sacred Indigenous land when you come to Haida Gwaii—it’s extremely important to come with respect. You'll come across ancient totem poles, abandoned village sites, and Haida villages.
• Due to cultural importance and sensitivity, there are a few areas where camping is off limits, including T’anuu Village and Slug Islet.
• There is no cell phone service inside the national park.