Camping near Powell River

The Sunshine Coast hugs the Pacific Ocean between Howe Sound and Desolation Sound within day-tripping distance of Vancouver. Although it’s technically part of mainland BC, the jagged coastal mountains make road travel impossible, so you reach this region by ferry or float plane. From Powell River, the largest community on the northern Sunshine Coast, you can go hiking, kayaking, boating, or watch the sunset over the ocean. Camp oceanfront at Saltery Bay Provincial Park, or near town at private RV parks with full-service campsites, hookups, and tenting sites. Haywire Bay Regional Park, on Powell Lake, is another option for RV and tent campers.

Powell River and the Sunshine Coast are year-round destinations. The weather is warmest, driest, and most comfortable for campers from April through October. The busiest season is the mild summer, between late June and early September, but spring and fall are both lovely, if cooler and damper. Winters are mild, compared to other destinations in Canada, with temperatures normally above freezing. Just prepare for plenty of winter rain—better for cuddling around the fire than camping on the beach.

• From Vancouver, it takes two ferries to reach Powell River. From the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, take BC Ferries service to Langdale, at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast. Drive north on Highway 101 (the Sunshine Coast Highway) to catch the Earl’s Cove-Saltery Bay ferry, and continue north on Highway 101 into Powell River.
• Before crossing to the north Sunshine Coast, stop at Skookumchuck Narrows, near Egmont, to see the dramatic tides and spectacular whirlpools that sweep between Sechelt and Jervis Inlets twice a day. It’s an easy four-kilometre hike through the forest to the Narrows. Check the tide schedule to arrive at the best viewing times.
• You can find groceries and other camping supplies in Powell River. Many of the camping areas outside of town or on the islands are fairly remote, so stock up on what you need before you reach your campsite.