Camping In British Columbia
Camping In BC: The Ultimate Guide
There are few better places in the world for camping than British Columbia. With such a range of terrain, climates and seasons, BC offers a lifetime’s worth of camping opportunities.
If you are lucky enough to go camping in British Columbia, you really can’t go wrong, and with a little bit of planning you should be on your way to the camping trip of a lifetime! Camping in BC is possible in national parks, provincial parks and municpial parks, as well as a huge variety of wilderness sites and private cmapgrounds. While the parks might be the easiest campgrounds to find, we think that the private campgrounds in BC are often the best deals and the easiest to book. Not to mention the variety of amenities they often offer.
You can go camping in BC all year round, but of course, you will find the best conditions between the end of May and the end of September. Another key factor to keep in mind while camping is your elevation in BC. If you are up high while camping in British Columbia, you will often experience much harsher conditions than if you were down at sea level. This is especially good to keep in mind while backpacking, since the campsites up high could be covered in snow, while it is summer down below.
Use our BC camping guide and information to help you plan your trip. Below you will find useful information on BC camping, as well as some of the best campgrounds and operators in BC, Canada. Wherever you end up, we hope you enjoy some dark skies and some peace and quiet!
Best Places To Go Camping In BC
Strathcona Park
Camping in Strathcona Park is absolutely epic for so many reasons. Dark skies, huge lakes, towering mountains and old growth forests are just some of the main attractions.
Pacific Rim National Park
Sandy beaches and fresh ocean air meet lush rain forests and ocean wilderness teeming with wildlife. Pacific Rim is the end of the road and wee like it that way. Come and see what the fuss is all about!
Juan De Fuca Park
Expansive Pacific views from the top of Mount Doug, to lush waterfall hikes and Saturday morning markets by the seaside are just some of the things that make Victoria one of the best travel destinations in Canada. Did we mention the warm winters?
Yoho National Park
Towering coast mountains come crashing down to the azure waters of Howe Sound in Squamish, Canada’s Adventure Capital. The prefect place for all things adventure, especially hiking, climbing and windsports.
BC’s Top RV & Overland and Camping Equipment Suppliers
Our Favourite Campgrounds In British Columbia
Whitewater Rafting In BC- FAQ
When is the best time of year to go rafting in BC?
British Columbia has a vast system of rivers that run through all the main mountain regions in the province. Each of these rivers in BC is fed by snow melt and glacial melt, which means that rafting in BC is best when the snow is melting.
Most rafting companies in BC start their operations around the end of May and go until the end of September.
The peak floods can range from anywhere in late May to the end of June, so you never quite know what you are going to get.
While peak flood is an exciting time to go rafting, it is definitely not the only time. Many rivers are best at lower flows, and the rapids clean up more at lower water levels. Lower water also means warmer and more clear water, vs the cold, silty meltwater at high flows.
What should I bring on a rafting trip in BC?
The short answer is less is more! You won’t need much, and you won’t be able to fidget with accessories while you are paddling.
These are the most recommended thigns to bring rafting with you:
- Appropriate layers- anything from boardshorts on a hot summer day, to fleece layers for a colder day
- Sunglasses & a strap for them
- Any important medication you might need
- A waterproof camera that can strap to you
- That’s it!
The river rafting companies in BC will be able to outfit you with a wet suit, splash top, water shoes and a helmet & lifejacket. You won’t need anything else.
Is Whitewater Rafting In BC Family Friendly?
Yes, rafting is a very family friendly activity in BC. You can go and join a raft with other people, or you can usually book a private raft for your family as well.
Rafting resorts generally are able to take kids over 80 pounds and over the age of 10 or 12. Make sure you check in with each rafting company in BC to double check the minimum age and size.
Are British Columbia Rafting Companies Safe?
Yes! The standard of training in Canada is very high and the raft guides are very well qualified. The rafting companies in BC have sextensive safety plans and protocols to keep you very safe.
Don’t worry about the raft flipping, or you falling out of it. While these are both possible, it’s very uncommon for people to fall out and rafts very rarely flip. Whitewater rafting in Canada is very safe and very fun!
More Adventure Activities In British Columbia
Sea Kayaking
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