The best camping near Strathcona Provincial Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Strathcona Provincial Park adventure.

An immense park with glacier-capped mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Strathcona Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Strathcona Provincial Park

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Tyee Valley Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Courtenay, BC

Join us on our family farm. Our third year hosting, we continue to enjoy hosting travelers from all over. Come join us and relax in the forest. Site 1 and 2 are drive-in sites. Site 3 is a tent-only site. Our newest Site 4 is a bit more open also for vans, campers, and tents, and we have a last-minute available Site 5 for vehicle camping. These sites will welcome you to recharge in nature. Dark night skies will open you to all the majesty of our solar system. Each standard campsite has a flat gravel surface suitable for tents, smaller RV's, shorter travel trailers, truck campers, rooftop tents, camper vans, and similar. Site 3 has a tent pad, well suited for cyclists or motorbikes. Small trailers up to 20 feet may be usable, but access may be tight. Please note, that while there is a campfire ban, camp stoves and propane fire pits are permitted. Easy access to Mt Washington and Strathcona Park, local beaches, rivers and more.

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Lake Farm Gardens

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Denman Island, BC

Campsite on 140 year old farm. Water and electricity and outhouse. Room for vans and rv. Bring your own tents and bedding. Explore Denman Island, and its natural beauty. Mostly undiscovered because of its more popular neighbour Hornby. Denman has it all, cafes, beaches, forests, lakes, hiking and biking. Go fishing in the nearby Chickadee Lake.

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Peacock Camping (Vancouver Island)

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Black Creek, BC

Learn more about this land:We are located on a beautiful farm with lots of animals to see! Our property is in Black Creek, BC. We have one private site available for tent and RV/trailer campers. The site is level and grassy and it can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. We provide a picnic table, wifi, and potable water. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban.Black Creek is a small town located on the eastern shore of North Central Vancouver Island, home to stunning beaches and outdoor recreation. At nearby Saratoga Beach, the tide goes out for over a quarter of a mile, creating a hard-packed oceanfront playground perfect for children to safely explore. Miracle Provincial Park is close by with a picnic area overlooking the water and a series of lovely trails winding through lush forest. You can visit the Oyster River Hatchery, check out the seals and sea lions in Seal Bay Regional Park, do some saltwater fishing for salmon, or even rent a go-cart and race around the Saratoga Speedway, or just watch others do it.

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Salmon Point on Nature Trail

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Campbell River, BC

This is a natural rustic west coast experience of peaceful wilderness where there are possible sightings of deer, bears, seals, herons, eagles, swans, geese, ducks and many songbirds depending on the seasons. The property is located at Salmon Point between Campbell River and Comox/Courtenay, BC. This is your gateway to everything that makes Vancouver Island the ultimate destination if you love the outdoors. Saltwater and beach fishing, kayaking, boating, golfing, and hiking are just minutes away. There is a resort and marina across the road and an Italian kitchen restaurant . Shelter Point Distillery is adjacent to the property. The trail goes along the ocean, through old-growth forests and along the river ending at a grocery, liquor store, coffee and pizza place, medical clinic and a small pharmacy. The property does have an outhouse, electrical plug-in at post and water hose close to house. This place is best suited for self-contained campers who can park in the open field or under fir trees. Tents, smaller travel trailers and camper vans can be accommodated. In the early 1900s, a hotel was on the property that serviced the ships heading north in the straight and those travelling between Campbell River and Courtney. The area is within 2 km of two large sand beaches, a Chinese restaurant, and a Spa. Between Salmon Point and Courtney, you will find farm land with local fruits, vegetables, eggs and meat for sale and wineries.

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weed canary farm

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Courtenay, BC

6.6 acre property that is a small farm, still lots of trees, a small seasonal creek in the back, a duck pond with a boat to paddle around with or just float around. we raise layer hens so there are fresh free range eggs available. we also raise pork and broiler chickens periodically throughout the year. there is easy access to logging road for mountain biking or hiking. this property is a small piece of wilderness yet only 4km to town. The camp sites surround the pond and there is a choice of lots of sun and light or shaded under the trees. The sites can be used by R.V or tent. there is an outhouse onsite for your convenience.

Sonora Island Cabin

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Campbell River, BC

3 bed Cabin built on a bluff among the maples. Cabin includes 3 double beds. One is a private room and two up in the loft. Boat access only! Sonora island does not have a ferry. There are water taxi companies that can boat you from Campbell River to Owen bay. Once on the island it is a 2-3km walk down the main road (which is usually muddy if there was recent rain) to the cabin. No service and no wifi. Make sure you arrange your pick up before being dropped off. Guests need to be fit to hike up to the cabin. This is a unique fully remote and off grid escape that is not for everyone! Please reach out if you have any questions! Pack in your own bedding/ sleeping bags. 5 minute walk to our private gravel beach over looking the ‘Hole in the Wall’ rapids. Our water reservoir that collects from a near by creek, feeds the house. Boiling before drinking advised. Also included in the cabin is two wood stoves, Propane stove for cooking, hot water on demand and solar power make this get away completely off the grid.

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The Field Of Dreams

6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Courtenay, BC

You will cross the bridge of troubled waters and enter your dream space for simple relaxation. Experience the beauty of a wide open field, mountain and forest glimpses, and the peace of mind that comes with being so removed. Yet, this property is only 10 minutes from town, has a general store within 500m and only 5 minutes from Kitty Coleman Park, Seal Bay Forest Trails and the Tsolum River!

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Portal Retreat

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Port Alberni, BC

The "Portal Retreat" is here: Unplug, relax, and unwind! Bonus: A 3-minute walk to the lake! Come and explore the glamping " Portal" style. We offer a unique experience just steps away from beautiful Sproat Lake. This is a retreat-type space and is specifically set up to help you get away from your busy life. There are books, games, hummingbirds, deer, and all that nature has to offer including the Lake, a stone's throw away for a quick dip to rejuvenate the mind and body. The Portal is 18 feet long and 8 feet wide and is your very own private space. Featuring a beautiful deck for relaxation, reading, star gazing, yoga, or alfresco dining, with the interior offering a queen bed, sofa, and artisanal water - Oh so cozy and romantic. There is a fancy new outhouse that flushes water and is equipped with a sink. This space is best suited for a single, a couple, and possibly a fur baby and/or little one. We are located on a quiet residential street 20 minutes from Port Alberni and en route to Tofino or Ucluelet. We have walking and mountain biking trails minutes from the house. If you are bringing a fur baby, please let us know. It must be on a leash at all times. Please bring your fur baby's favorite blanket or bed to sleep on. We can also provide a comfy hound bed in the room at your request. We kindly ask that you keep your fur baby off the furniture and bed, and that you please not leave your pet unattended. The Portal has no internet and reception is spotty. There is one outlet for charging, etc. Parking is on-site. Local food options include the "The Fish & Duck Pub" which is just a short walk away. Call Doordash to deliver a meal from one of our local restaurants, such as Sproat Lake Landing, or bring a picnic to enjoy. Additional Extras: Canoe $40.00 per day $200 deposit. Please bring your own PFD and any personal protective gear you may require. Very Important: BYO your own ice, cooler, pots, pans, stove, and all cooking utensils. Subject to availability, Ice can be supplied and is $5/bag We supply plates, cutlery, & cups. We have recycling & garbage. Additionally, there is a full campfire ban in effect at all times on the property. We understand that life happens, but please try to arrive no later than 8:30 p.m. for check-in. We do need our beauty sleep.

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Tranquility By The Lake

2 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Port Alberni, BC

Surrounded by tall trees on Vancouver Island this property is scenic, quiet and near to endless outdoor adventures. Located on 1 acre, fully fenced. Its a 200 metre walk to a community dock and boat launch (room to park your toys in our driveway). 500 metres from endless forest trails for hiking and biking. 10 minutes to/from the highway to Tofino (1hr30)/Parksville (1hr). A few minutes’ walk to warm and welcoming Sproat Lake. Enjoy your own outdoor space among the trees. Free Blackberries!

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Comox's Little River Bay Hip Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Comox, BC

Little river rd Hip Camp is walking distance to Little River Bay... where there are opportunities for beach hikes, kayaking, swimming, windsurfing and kiteboarding. Stroll to Kin Beach Provincial Park or the Griffin Pub. Bike to 40 Knot Winery or Little River Ferry terminal. we can accommodate a self contained RV or Van up to 30 ft. A quiet lush site nestled amongst the trees on the lower part of our 3/4 acre lot. Please note that you must have waste disposal as there are no Rest Rooms at this site. Agricultural land (and a blueberry farm) across the street all the way to the ocean.

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Field Sites & Secluded Tent Sites

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Campbell River, BC

A beautiful campsite located in Campbell River, BC. Pastoral open field for RVs & tents. Easy access from the road and private secluded sites for single vehicles & tenters. We can accommodate vehicles up to 40ft in length. No services/utilities this year. Only a 2-minute walk to the beach and several trails. Shelter Point Distillery is just next door. Other activities near include wandering along oceanside trails, fishing for salmon, swimming, or simply sitting back, relaxing and enjoying nature. The region is a mecca for outdoor and marine enthusiasts as it boasts 5 Provincial Parks, several marine parks, golf courses, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing hotspots galore. Explore the wilds of Strathcona Provincial Park, paddle the calm waters of the estuary, get out on the water for a thrilling whale-watching excursion and so much more. Pets welcome, campfires permitted according to BC Forest fire ban limits.

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Natures Hideaway!

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · BC

We have established this small primitive campground trying to help with the ever increasing demand of places for people to go.

The best camping near Strathcona Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

Hikers, mountaineers, climbers, anglers and wildlife watchers are drawn to the rugged mountain wilderness in Strathcona Provincial Park, which stretches more than 250,000 hectares and includes four of the five highest peaks on Vancouver Island. Hiking trails range from barrier-free, interpretive trails to challenging multi-day hikes that crisscross the undeveloped backcountry and are served by over 100 backcountry, hike-in campsites. Frontcountry camping is found in two spots on Buttle Lake and offer basic pit toilets and running water, and three group campsites are also available. Strathcona Provincial Park is located on the traditional territory of the Mowachaht and Muchalaht people.

Notable campgrounds

Best for families: Buttle Lake has an adventure playground, a sandy beach, and an interpretive trail.
Best for adventurers: Ralph River is the ideal base for exploring Buttle Lake by boat and for day hikes in the park.
Best for groups: A 1.5-hour hike will take you to the Croteau Lake wilderness group site. It has 12 tent pads, a large yurt, composting toilet facilities, and bear caches all set on a quiet lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations are recommended from mid-May to September and must be booked through BC Parks’ Discover Camping website.
If visiting on weekends or holidays (Canada Day, BC Day, or Labour Day) try to secure a spot as far in advance of your trip as possible.
You may be able to score one of the 65 first-come, first-served spots (of 161), especially mid-week, if you show up right after check-out time at 11am.
Backcountry spots need permits but not reservations. These can be purchased through the Discover Camping.

When to go

Strathcona Provincial Park is open for camping from April 1 to October 31. The best weather for exploring (and seeing the views) is from the beginning of June to the end of September. This is also the busy season, as summer vacation starts at the end of June. Those seeking a quieter experience will find it less crowded on weekdays when schools are in session, during May, June, and September.

Know before you go

This is a remote wilderness area, and visitors should be self-sufficient and prepared for changing weather conditions.
The nearest town to the Buttle Lake campground is Campbell River, a 45-minute drive away.
Ralph River Campground has barrier-free campsites, toilets and trails.
There are two boat launches and several wilderness boat-in campsites on Buttle Lake.
Canoe and kayak rentals are available at nearby Strathcona Park Lodge, which also organizes a variety of tours.
Mount Washington Resort is open in summer for mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and ziplining.

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