We have camped at many different campsites from provincial to private to rec sites to random spots off of FSRs to old cut blocks to lakes to rivers and many amazing spots. We love the adventure and take our time enjoying the journey.
First of all remember, we are guests on this land. Respect the environment, nature, and wildlife around you. Pack out any litter, dog poop bags and food you bring in. Pick up any garbage you may come across if you can. And make sure you are bear and cougar aware and know what to do when encountering wildlife (check it out here if you are not sure)
1. BC Parks
Use BC Parks website to search which provincial parks are available whether it be for campsite, cabin, group, backcountry, or Canoe Circuit sites. You can search, reserve, and manage your BC Provincial spots through this website. Most (not all) of these have a fee. They also just started this cool new feature this year called “Notify Me” where you will receive an email notification when someone else cancels and a site becomes available at a specific park.
Beautiful views from Schoen Lake Park
2. iOverlander
iOverlander is available both as an app as well as a website…and it’s free! It is a compilation for and by Overlanders listing overlanding campsites, accommodation, amenities (such as bathrooms, showers, wifi etc.), parking sites, and other significant points of interest. It is a user-friendly space that allows you to search as well as add to the listings/map.
3. BC Rec Sites
This is a helpful site for BC Recreation sites and trails. It has an interactive map that allows you to search and find rec sites across BC. Rec sites are located on Crown Land aka not National or Provincial Parks or anywhere that is settled. Usually they are off the beaten track and operate on a first come first serve basis. Mostttt sites are free but some may have a small fee per night. Generally the sites have a place to park/tent (no RV hook ups), a picnic table, campfire ring, and possssibly a pit toilet. This website allows you to search where the sites are and gives you a little bit more info on the fees, the number of sites, how to access and directions.
Perfect Summer beach sunset at Georgie Lake Rec Site
We use the Vancouver Island and Gulf Island Map Book but they have map books of all different parts of Canada and even offer a digital format as well. They have many adventure sections such as parks and campsites, hunting areas, fishing locations, wildlife viewing, trail systems, and many many more. It is great to have especially when you are in deep exploration mode without any cell service. This is what we used the most for our latest camping trip in the North part of Vancouver Island
Happy Campers
Finally remember it’s all about the adventure and what you learn on your way. Check out all of these resources or none of them. Make it your own. Just get out there, be safe, be in nature, disconnect, soak it all in, and have fun.
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