Our province is one of the most beautiful natural places in the entire world. And camping around Vancouver is maybe the best way to experience it. We have temperate rainforests, amazing coniferous forests, and stunning mountain ranges. Can you tell we love it here?
So, to help you experience some of the beauty nature has to offer here, we’ve put together this list of must-visit camping sites near Vancouver. Oh, and all of them are less than 5 hours away from the city. Now, let’s get to it!
Editor’s Note: Due to regional travel restrictions, some of these picks will not be available until the province moves into Step 2 of the reopening plan, which is June 15th at the earliest. For more information, click here.
Porteau Cove Provincial Park
If you’re looking for waterfront camping, then this is the spot for you. Located on the most southerly fjord in North America and overlooking Howe Sound and mountain peaks, your eyes will never get sick of these views. Scuba diving, cycling, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and windsurfing are just a few of the activities that you’ll be able to try out while at Porteau Cove.
Distance from Vancouver: 45 mins
Sunnyside Campground
Located only a short drive from Vancouver, Cultus Lake Park has gorgeous beaches along a freshwater lake, and surrounded by mountain peaks. With 65 acres of group campsites, full hook-up sites, and seasonal tenting sites, there’s a site for everyone. Not to mention basketball and volleyball courts, a nearby water park, boat rentals, and more to fill your days to the brim with.
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hr 30 mins
Sasquatch Provincial Park
Situated north of Harrison Hot Springs, this provincial park has a series of pocket lakes and is surrounded by birch forest and gorgeous mountain views. Two of the pocket lakes are perfect for boating and canoeing, whereas Trout Lake is the ideal spot for a tranquil day of fishing. While you’re out there, take a scenic stroll through their light hiking trails and check out their interpretive programs!
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hrs
Porpoise Bay Provincial Park
If you’re craving some time on the coast, definitely check out this Sunshine Coast campground. You can canoe on the calm morning waters, and then spend your afternoons hiking, fishing, and cycling. Or, if you’re looking to relax, soak up the sun on the sandy beaches. Whatever you’re looking for, Porpoise Bay definitely has it.
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hrs 20 mins
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Alice Lake
Just north of Squamish, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature at this family-friendly campground. With surrounding mountains, forests, and grassy areas, you’ll have views for days. The four freshwater lakes are perfect for swimming and fishing, and the nearby trails have options suitable for any fitness level. Plus, it’s one of the closest camping spots around Vancouver that’s still pretty rugged.
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hr 15 mins
Golden Ears Provincial Park
Any adventure seekers out there? If so, then this spot is for you. Golden Ears is known for its wide variety of activities available. From waterskiing, windsurfing, boating, and fishing, to horseback riding through the rugged park trails. Seriously, you won’t be getting bored at this coastal campsite!
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hr
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Garibaldi park has got to be one of the most beautiful places on this list. Between Vancouver and Whistler, this provincial campground offers good old-fashioned tent camping and an amazing view of the Garibaldi lake and glacier. And, on top of that, it’s also near some amazing hiking trails that will really test your leg muscles.
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hr 20 mins
EC Manning Provincial Park
This one is a big one folks! EC Manning has four campgrounds to choose from, as well as group sites and back-country camping. It’s a bit of a Mecca for camping, no matter how you like to do it. Made even better by the fact it’s just a few hours east of Vancouver. The park’s got places you can hike, canoe, mountain bike, and fish! So, grab a few friends and enjoy this massive park and all it has to offer.
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hrs
Saltery Bay Provincial Park
Located on the Sunshine Coast, this park is right on the ocean and has some interesting secrets. Famous for being a destination for scuba divers because of a hidden underwater statue. But, this park is also really worth checking out for all you who prefer to do your breathing above water. This looks like an ideal place to pack up some smores and hot dogs and them over a fire to your heart’s content!
Distance from Vancouver: 4 hrs
Tunkwa Provincial Park
If you love fishing, Tunkwa is the place to check out. Located near Kamloops, this park is great for those who sport “fish fear me” merch. The lakes at the park are consistently stocked with rainbow trout and are a destination for those who like to fish, or who just want a relaxed, camping experience. If you’re more into glamping this is a great place to visit if you have an RV as well!
Distance from Vancouver: 3 hrs 45 mins
Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
While currently closed due to COVID-19, this park and camping area around Vancouver is beyond beautiful. The park is located near Pemberton and offers great hiking, sightseeing, and fishing. Also, the three Joffre Lakes are a breathtaking blue colour, which is due to a type of silt in the water, and are worth the trip all on their own. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can even hike up to get amazing views of the snowfields and glacier.
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hrs 30 mins
Now that the summer’s here, you got to start planning your camping trips. And we hope that this list of great camping spots helps you have an amazing summer full of adventure. Hey, we might even see you at some of these spots over the next few months!
