Forest camping in British Columbia with surfing

A vast wilderness of mountains, backcountry trails, temperate rainforests, and a sprawling waterfront.

94% (311 reviews)
94% (311 reviews)

Popular camping styles for British Columbia

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Dog-friendly getaways

12 top forest campgrounds in British Columbia with surfing

98%
(76)

3 sisters ranch

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Parksville, BC
Close to all the amenities the Oceanside area of Vancouver Island has offered. Quick access to Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, The amazing beaches of. Qualicum. Parksville and Rathtrevor 15 and 10 minutes away. 1:45 minutes to Tofino and our amazingly rugged and world renowned West Coast experience surfing amazing scenery. Epic Mountain biking at your doorstep. DH At Hamerfest is a 10 minute drive or a 45 minute pedal away cross country. Fine dining and all amenities including urgent care after riding is only 10 minutes away. Great hub to experience Vancouver Island from. While the fire ban is on, it is generated towards open fires. Propane fire pits and cook stoves are always welcome.
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CA$40
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97%
(59)

Sea Change Farm and Nursery

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Shirley, BC
Enjoy the simple wild private campsites with gravel pads, on the edge of a creek ravine with second growth forest and the regeneration of the forest around you. A big beautiful pond hosts lots of wildlife and you will hear our chickens making their happy noises on the wind. And for your information—This year we have a quiet long term camper in the site next to the one you can reserve in a school bus and a tiny home is at the end of the road with no occupancy. There are large berms inbetween each site for privacy. Sheringham light house and Shirley Delicious Cafe are within walking or biking distance and The Stoked wood fire pizza is also just down the road beside French beach. No shortage of sights to take in here on the west Coast of Vancouver island. For more information look in our descriptions.♥️
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CA$40
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98%
(206)

theDoighouse Earthship

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Qualicum Bay, BC
Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, dirt, pop cans, and concrete? Welcome to theDoighouse Earthship, an eco-retreat nestled in the forest, mere minutes from Qualicum Bay waterfront. Our location is a haven for adventurers and peace-seekers alike, offering easy access to the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. Just an hour north of Nanaimo, our property serves as an ideal base for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. Or don’t leave the island and spend the afternoon eating delicious fresh-made doughnuts at the famous Old Country Market in Coombs, home to the iconic goats on the roof, it’s only a 20-minute drive from our doorstep. Or 10 minutes to the waterfront and delicious ice cream at the Cone Zone. Stay local and discover forest trails, a children's playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. Lighthouse Country area teems with opportunities for exploration, from pristine beaches including Sunny Beach and scenic Spider and Horne Lakes to an array of hiking paths, or if you climb, consider the Horne Lake Caves! Use your All Trails App to discover the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. Urban legend has it that it was the running shoes that were lost, not the people wearing them! Or stop here for a night en route to and from the mainland to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing, or if skiing is your calling, Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive away. You can pitch your tent in our gardens, park your RV on the edge of the forest, or stay in our cozy tiny cabin. You can wander in the gardens and check out a young permaculture food forest filled with fruit and hazelnut trees, berries, and all that good stuff! Our Earthship, currently under construction, is all about exploring a low-impact lifestyle, off-grid living in an energy-efficient dwelling built from recycled materials. It is love for the planet, and people and sharing of abundance that makes this project come alive. Attend a group tour, or arrange for your own private tour where Tony will spend a couple of hours with you, sharing theDoighouse project, and answering any and all questions you may have. We also offer workshops and other onsite activities. For more info check out our website www.thedoighouse.com/events. On arrival, you will be greeted by Bentley (our standard poodle), Mabel (mouser extraordinaire) and the 'hens' who generously gift fresh eggs daily. Come visit, tour, and stay. Susan and Tony Doig
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CA$35
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100%
(5)

Stewardson Way

3 sites · Tents160 acres · Tofino, BC
It's not just about this sacred land, but also the journey to reach it! Experience a peaceful environment offering great adventures. Indulge in Nature walks in the old growth forests, hiking, bushcraft, yoga, fitness activities, salmon fishing and whale watching . Conclude your day with a warm soak in Cove Hot Spring. Learn sustainable ways of living off the land while immersing yourself in serene views of the majestic mountain range and ocean. This location is only accessible by boat or float plane, you can not drive here. Charters are available, however we do offer rides time to time for a pretty fair deal compared to the the local services, we are in and out of Tofino often for materials and supplies! This isn't just any hipcamp, we are a family thrilled to be living such a unique lifestyle and excited to share it with you. The experience offered is a guided adventure, once you get on the boat whether it be with a charter or us you will travel through the channels of the Clayoquot district up into the Sydney Inlet Provincial Park then to us at the mouth of Stewardson Inlet. My Name is Ron I am the Steward of this land! I'm excited to share these unforgettable moments with you! come explore our back yard with us and much more!
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CA$68
 / night
100%
(1)

Foot Forward Farm

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Campbell River, BC
Nestle in to our walk-in private 'Pond Cabin' located on our 40 acre Regenerative mixed farm on beautiful Quadra Island. This idyllic 160 square foot, wood stove heated, cabin overlooks the largest pond on our property. The private site boast a glorious on-demand hot water outdoor shower and covered outdoor kitchen. Walk beside our grazing sheep, goats and chickens and visit our forest raised pigs on your way to the cabin. As Foot Forward is a Permaculture inspired Regenerative farm, no fossil fuels are used in pasture/grounds maintenance. Sheep and goats are used to graze all of the grass including the grass around the pond and cabin. There is a chance, depending on which paddock the sheep are working in, that you may have some 4 legged grounds keepers in and around your space. Contact us to book a farm tour and regenerative agriculture introduction. Farm fresh eggs, and a variety of other products from the farm are available including (assuming they aren't sold out) our famous sausages. Solar power provides you with all the lighting, shower-water pressure and technology charging you will need for your stay. There is no refrigeration onsite at the moment but access to a farm fridge can be arranged. Quadra Island was recently rated by Forbes Magazine as #5 on its most up and coming travel locations in the world. Perhapse it was beccaue of its natural beauty or the fact that it is a nearly mosquito free outdoor paradise. Quadra is the largest island in the Salish Sea. Endless recreational opportunities abound on the island. Hundreds of kilometres of hiking and mountain biking trails crisscross the island. Several guiding companies give provide access to the world class kayaking and scuba diving off of Quadra's shores. Do all that... or simply grab a book and curl up beside the pond or read a book in the hammock. *** Winter Comment*** The cabin is winterized. The stove is actually to hot for the size of the cabin. It requires a little practice timing your fire and opening windows to keep it at the best temperature. Since we are all 'Hip" here... it just adds to the adventure. :) Oh yeah... bring boots. :) About once a year a rainstorm intense enough to overflow the stream you need to cross to the cabin overflows. In that case it is a bit of challenge getting there.
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CA$90
 / night
100%
(2)

Bunkie Glamping in Cowichan Valley

2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Duncan, BC
Welcome to Glamping in Glenora. Discover one of the sweetest secrets in the Cowichan Valley: the perfect place to unplug and unwind. Re-wild yourself in nature by exploring the region's rivers, lakes, trails, vineyards, cideries and farms. The Glamping Bunkies are nestled within our 6 acre property amongst, Dogwoods, Maples, and wildflowers. Marvel at the stars while frogs serenade you, enjoy a drink next to the fire pit, listen to the river flowing below, or simply cozy up inside your bunkie.
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CA$135
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Booked 5 times

Strongwater Camping and Cabins

10 sites · Lodging7 acres · Egmont, BC
A magical experience awaits you on the majestic Sunshine Coast of British Columbia near the Village of Egmont. Nestle into our modern rustic cabins or set up camp beneath the towering evergreens. We, your hosts, and our yard-full of farm friends live just up the hill, but we sneak out often to welcome our guests. Strongwater Camping and Cabins offers bookings year-round. Choose from our 8 rustic cabins or 8 large campsites to accommodate your next relaxing get-away or refreshing retreat. Bookings are usually a 2-night minimum. 1-night may be available at the discretion of the Hosts. New to our accommodations are the SkookumBus and a Glamping Tent (summer only)! Our hand-built cabins provide a simply magical experience, with warm, comfy beds and bedside table, a fan for summer or a heater for winter. Nearly every cabin features a small table and chairs and a mini-fridge plus an outdoor fire pit and a picnic table. The cabins’ decks are surrounded by forest. Firewood is available for $30/wheelbarrow on site when available (unless we have a fire ban.) All campsites include the fire pit and picnic table. Everyone has easy access to the spa-like washrooms with coin-operated hot showers and flush toilets. Children 8 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult in the Wash house. There’s a dish washing station in the center of the Wash House where you can refill your water jugs and bottles or wash dishes. Please do not use for washing hair or laundry or tooth brushing. We ask that you conserve water and keep the Wash House clean. If a peaceful experience is what you seek, enjoy the restful, soothing atmosphere of the forest. Learn to really appreciate the simple things in life. Take in the mountain, ocean, and lake scenery. Fishing, canoeing, or just lying on a beach. Sitting on the deck of your cozy cabin, reading a book or soaking in the magic. If you are a thrill-seeker, then adventure awaits on the turbulent waters of Skookumchuk Narrows, the rapids for which our magical place is named. Skookumchuk is an old Chinook word meaning Strong Waters. There’s a timetable for you to consult to catch the tides at the best times. Follow the link below. Hit some rigorous trails on your mountain bike, hike through forests, up mountains, or at oceanside. Take a wild ride to untouched wilderness with our neighbouring Adventure Boat Tours.
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CA$139.50
 / night
60%
(5)

Sensational de paradisio

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Duncan, BC
Learn more about this land: Hello we have 1 new cabin available for stays which we just added at 125.00 per night 6 rv spaces and a large tenting area Come and enjoy a quiet camping experience near Cowichan River. A perfect getaway from Nanaimo (45-minute drive) or Victoria (1-hour drive). We are pleased to offer cabin and tenting sites as well. The cabin is 140.00 per night. We offer 24 extremely private campsites that can accommodate 35 people and are easily accessible by car. While camping with us you’ll have access to a fire pit, firewood, cedar gazebo koi pond and the tranquil sound of our west coast frogs at night. and a picnic table to comfortably enjoy your meals. We also have a wood bbq and basic cooking utensils for your stay.  We’re a family-friendly camping experience and have plenty of activities on our property including hiking, swimming, mountain biking and more. Nearby you can explore the world-famous Cowichan River and Lake Cowichan. Within a short drive, you’ll find even more hiking and biking trails and tubing and swimming options.  Other amenities we offer include: a shower and toilet, access to electricity for charging phones and other devices.  Come and stay with us for an unforgettable camping getaway.
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CA$52
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93%
(7)

The Rad Shack

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Jordan River, BC
Aloha, Brah's, Wahine's and all those in betweeny's! The Rad Shack is a most excellent west coast cabana. Surrounded by incredible forests, spend your day surfing, exploring the Juan de Fuca trails, hiking along the local beaches or just chillin in The Rad Shack. We are within walking distance of Jordan River and China Beach. The immediate environment is a beautiful, lush, west coast forest with a creek, a froggy habited lagoon, and all kinds of birds, raccoons, salamanders, and bears, oh my!
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CA$170.10
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94%
(9)

West Coast Wilderness Glamping

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sooke, BC
Your booking at Maple Haven includes both tents and the entire site to yourself! A basecamp for adventure! This massive glamping site is completely private on 5 acres of forest at the base of a 4000 hectare hiking and biking adventure park! Enjoy a dip in the world famous Sooke Potholes (10min away by car) or ride horseback along the Galloping Goose, a gorgeous multi use trail stretching from Victoria to Sooke, then enjoy a craft beer at Oceanside Brewery, a 10min walk away!
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CA$200
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100%
(2)

The Glamping Beachcomber

1 site · Lodging18 acres · Campbell River, BC
Wake up surrounded by the stunning sights and sounds of nature. It's your panoramic view! Just 300 meters from the beaches of the Strait of Georgia, nestled on an acreage of family property is The Glamping Beachcomber. This oasis consists of a spacious canvas tent on large, fenced, wrap around deck (with room for your camping tent for 2 additional people). It’s well-furnished inside and out with an outdoor covered, supplied kitchen. Step off the deck and choose your path! If Oyster River is your destination, the nature trail will take you there. Stop along the way for a swim, picnic, paddle, driftwood fort building, maybe try your campfire building skills! Or meander above the shoreline along the driftwood covered shore on one side of you and past acres of distillery farmland and the Oyster River Estuary on your right. Where the river meets the sea just around the corner, it’s not uncommon to find a seal bobbing and heron near the shoreline, and maybe an eagle further out on the sandbar waiting for their seafood meal. To smell the forest, sea, and freshness of a flowing river all in one breath doesn’t happen many places, but it’s here every day. Deer, rabbits, herons and eagles are a near certainty right on our property. Currently there is a Great Horned Owl’s nest with 50 meters and you may catch sighting of the owlets. The bright sunny fielded forest alongside the beach blends together these experiences so seamlessly. And If a touch of civilization appeals, you'll find the essentials just past the nature trail, or a short drive away. Just beyond our property at Salmon Point… Shelter Point Distillery tastings and tours. Oyster River plaza (Grocery store, liquor store, pizza and coffee, and a medical clinic/pharmacy). Sandy Saratoga beach (water sport rentals) across the Oyster River. Miracle Beach Provincial Park. Saratoga Speedway on Saturday nights. Golf and mini golf. And we're 15 min drive to the bottom of Mt Washington, popular for hiking, ziplining, mountain biking and competition. Or, pocket your keys, and stay put. You really are in the thick of it! As a Glamping Beachcomber, natures majesty is your panoramic view. It's a complete holiday right here on the property.
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CA$89.10
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(3)

Lot4.Caycuse

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Youbou, BC
***This site is currently being upgraded to a larger tent and adding more amenities for our guests. We will reopen on April 15th this year*** Welcome to our magical property nestled in a semi-remote temperate rainforest on Vancouver island. The 5 acre property is filled with wonderful trails to explore, a nearby lake, and a custom Sauna & Ice Plunge to take the stress of the day away. You'll wake up to the calmness of the forest, the sounds of the birds, and the sun shining through the moss covered trees.
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CA$140.25
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Star Hosts in British Columbia

Value Prop
Value Prop

Forest camping in British Columbia with surfing guide

Overview

It’s hard to describe British Columbia as anything other than wildly breathtaking—quite literally when you swim in one of the province’s many turquoise glacier lakes, ride a wave, or catch a glimpse of a bear in the forest. For camping experiences and road trips, BC offers privately operated campgrounds and RV parks; a major network of parks with reservable and first-come, first-served tent camping sites; yurts and cabins; and thousands of recreation sites and trails on beaches, lakes, mountains, and meadows. Thanks to the mild climate and some winter huts, camping is possible year-round.

West Coast

The Pacific Ocean runs along the length of BC, offering plenty of oceanside spots to explore. On Vancouver Island, Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park are famous for cold-water surfing, whale watching, and hot springs, while nearby Ucluelet is a fisher’s paradise. Further inland, campers can find riverside camping in Squamish; backcountry huts around the resort town of Whistler; and reservable tent pads overlooking the jewel-toned Joffre Lake. For a true off-the-grid experience, head to Haida Gwaii's Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve—set about 100 kilometres off the northern British Columbia coast, this area is only reachable by sea or air.

Northern British Columbia

The northern part of the province is all raw, rugged beauty, with unique culture and untouched natural beauty. Soak in Canada’s second-largest hot spring in Fort Nelson, watch salmon spawning in the many rivers, and peek at bears catching some themselves at Kleanza Creek Provincial Park in Terrace. Options for outdoor stays include vast wilderness resorts, remote cabins, and private beach, lakefront, or rainforest campsites—but note that cell service and WiFi are rare in these parts. Bonus: Given its far north location, it’s relatively easy to snag last-minute campsites that still offer peace and quiet.

Cariboo Chilcotin Coast

With a blend of history, wildlife, adventure, and expansive grasslands, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is true Canadian countryside. Campers come to this wild western spot to spend time in the Great Bear Rainforest and at alpine rivers (whitewater rafting is big here), but travelers usually also visit lakeside fishing lodges and historic Gold Rush towns such as Barkerville. Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is a prime spot for the chance to spot a grizzly bear.

Kootenay Rockies

Set in the province’s southeastern corner and part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, the Kootenays are home to four national parks: Glacier, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho. Here you’ll find unrivaled wildlife—think black bears, mountain goats, and elk—much of which can be spotted even from the highway. Throughout the region are glaciers, peaks, waterfalls, and quirky little towns such as Golden, Cranbrook, and Kimberley, the highest in Canada at 1,113 meters up. Camping and tenting is typically open between May and September, with limited winter options.

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