Camping in BC

British Columbia is in my opinion one of the best places in the world to camp. With such a vast wilderness and range of environments from coastline, to lakes and mountains, there are a lifetime of camping adventures to be had. Whether you’re hike camping, bike packing, kayak touring or car camping, there are countless options of where to stay. Forest Service Roads, a network of roads developed for forestry and logging, are one of the primary factors as to why our wilderness is so accessible. Many of the camping options you’ll find below are accessible from Forest Service Roads.

Types of Camp Sites in BC

Private & Government Campgrounds (BC Parks & Parks Canada & Privates)

With so many outdoor enthusiasts in Canada, and BC in particular, its no wonder there is a great network of government run campgrounds. Government Campgrounds, run by BC Parks and Parks Canada typically offer basic services like washrooms (toilets), lunch shelters and water. Some provide additional services. Some are accessible by road, whilst many others are run as hike-in campgrounds in the middle of popular provincial or national parks. These campgrounds usually charge a fee, though it is generally less than what you’d pay for a private campground. Examples of BC Parks campgrounds would be Joffre Lakes and Garibaldi Lake, whilst Parks Canada run camps in the Rockies as well as the Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island.

For reservations for both of the above, use the BC Parks Reservation Service or the Parks Canada Reservation Service.

In addition, you’ll find that private campgrounds typically offer the highest level of amenities, often including showers, toilets, water and electricity hookups, sani-dumps as well as well maintained spots to park your RV, van or tent. With well developed services, these campgrounds always charge a fee. Some campgrounds even have additional facilities like picnic tables, kids play areas, disc golf – the list is endless really and depends entirely on the owner. To make reservations at private campgrounds, you’ll need to contact the specific contact for that site.

Use the well labelled map below to find your next camp. Leave the top three checkboxes on to search for private and government sites. For access to the official link and map hosted by Camping & RV in BC check out this this page.

Rec Sites (Recreation Sites)

A rec site is usually just a clearing that is regularly used for camping. Some are maintained by local authorities, but do not expect the same conditions as a private campground. Rec sites offer a more raw experience of camping, and are almost always free. Most are accessible by road or forest service road (FSR). For those accessible by FSR you should use the map below to explore site conditions, and additionally use the FSR Road Conditions Map to assess road conditions.

To see a full screen version of the map, check out the full screen Rec Site Map.

For access to the government’s official page with this Rec Sites map, plus information about backcountry camping and trails, see this page.

Fire Bans & Restrictions in BC

When camping, many of us look forward to a good campfire as a way to unwind in the evening, share stories about our adventures or simply stay warm in the depths of winter. The heat of summer, however, introduces the possibility of forest fires, and therefore fire bans. This usually happens somewhere in July and stays in place for the duration of the summer.

Top Resources for Fire Bans and Restrictions in Your Area

Fire Bans and Restrictions in your area – Check out this link to the government of BC Website, with fire status by region.

BC Wildfire Service Map can be found here and offers an interactive way to explore the restrictions.

In addition, you’ll find the BC Rec Sites map above actually has some filters to include Fire Bans and Restrictions, though it is a little more challenging to navigate.

Campground Reservations

By Reservation Only

Many campgrounds are available by reservation only. for most, this also means that you’ll choose which spot exactly you want to camp at. This allows you to pick the one by the lake, or the view, away from the crowds, or which ever you prefer. For others, typically those on hiking trails, your reservation simply means you are allowed to stay in the campground. It is up to you to find a spot once you arrive. Park Rangers and Campground Hosts always check reservations, so do make sure you have it downloaded on your phone. There’s a good chance you won’t have signal once you arrive.

First Come First Served

Many campgrounds in BC operate on a first come first served basis. This generally applies to Rec Sites and non-reservable but designated camping areas on hiking trails. it can be a little daunting to hike 10km into the mountains, not knowing if there’s going to be a spot for you. I’ve never actually had a problem. Generally, other campers are accommodating and you all try and find your spot and make it work.

Frontcountry Vs Backcountry

The distinction between front country and back country camping really comes down to how easy it is to access the site.

Front Country Campgrounds (Drive In)

Front country campgrounds are the type of campgrounds that you might expect to drive in to straight off the road. They are generally accessible with any vehicle and may even accommodate RVs and boats. They may have good facilities, if they are paid or government run. Some rec sites can be reached directly from a main high way, but since they are rec sites, they will most likely be basic.

Back Country Campgrounds

Back country campgrounds typically describe camps that are a bit harder to get to. You make need to hike, cycle, paddle or drive down a forest service road to reach a back country campground. Facilities will always be more limited at these types of sites.

Essential Gear for Camping

The gear requirements for camping really depend on your mode of travel, and your dependency on life’s little luxuries. Use the below guides to help you pack for your trip.