The best camping near Mount Seymour Provincial Park

Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Mount Seymour Provincial Park is a favourite among residents of the Lower Mainland, partly due to its viewpoints overlooking Vancouver, Mount Baker, and Say Nuth Khaw Yum (Indian Arm) Provincial Park. Visitors will find many trails of various lengths and difficulty—the hiking trails to Dog Mountain, Mystery Lake, and Mount Seymour peak are particularly popular. Lower mountain trails are used extensively by mountain bikers and hikers, while upper mountain trails near the ski resort area are restricted to hiking until winter trails are put in place in December. The park features extensive winter facilities for skiing, snowshoeing, and snow play. Camping options include just two group camping sites available for up to 16 people each.

1. Mount Seymour’s two group camping sites available for year-round reservation.
2. All group campsite reservations must be made by phone or online at BC Parks’ Discover Camping website.

Mount Seymour Provincial Park is open year-round. During the winter months, the resort area is busy with skiers and riders, while the park sees winter snowshoe and hiking enthusiasts. In summer, Mount Seymour’s lower sections are teeming with mountain bikers, while hikers occupy the upper sections accessible from the resort’s parking lot. Due to the park’s popularity and proximity to populated areas, day-use permits may be required in summer. Winter trails are put in place from mid-December through March 31 each year.

• Due to the park’s popularity in summer, BC Parks has instituted a day-use pass reservation system. This is to limit overcrowding and impacts on the park’s alpine sensitive environment. 
• Mount Seymour Provincial Park doesn’t have wifi, and cell phone service can be spotty along the upper mountain trails.
• Open fires aren’t permitted in the park’s backcountry.
• The mountainous backcountry can be rugged and unforgiving, so visitors should be experienced and properly equipped. Anyone planning to travel in the backcountry (whether overnight or for just a few hours) should inform a friend or family member of their intended route and anticipated return time.
• Winter snowshoe trails and ski trails marked by BC Parks do not require a permit or day-use pass. 

For a camping trip filled with scenic beauty and recreational activities, choose Buntzen Lake Recreation Area. With its serene lake, beautiful trails, and abundant wildlife, the Buntzen Lake camping journey promises a harmonious blend of relaxation and exploration.