Anyone who’s ever tried to camp in BC knows Provincial campsites tend to book up very early. This summer, looking at scenic campsite alternatives may save your long weekend. We’ve put together a list of 12 First Nations owned and/or operated campsites around BC. From Metro Vancouver to remote Haida Gwaii, we hope you’ll find the beauty in these idyllic places!
1. Pachena Bay Campground
The Pachena Bay Campground is magnificently situated on the shores of Pachena Bay, where the Pachena River flows into the Pacific Ocean. Next to the Huu-ay-aht First Nations community of Anacla and nestled amidst a virgin rainforest on Vancouver Island’s unspoiled west coast, the campground has been smartly upgraded to welcome campers and RVs.
Home of Huu-ay-aht First Nations
Phone: 250-728-1287
Location: Bamfield, BC
2. Sweltzer Creek Campground
Sweltzer Creek Campground is only minutes away from Cultus Lake, yet miles away from the crowds. Enjoy these spacious campsites in a family friendly atmosphere.The campsite is nestled between its namesake, the Sweltzer Creek, and the Chilliwack River. Old- growth cedar trees shelter this beautiful and natural hideaway.
Home of the Soowahlie First Nation
Phone: (604) 824 4023
Location: Cultus Lake, BC
3. Moricetown First Nation
The Moricetown RV site, which includes a popular campground and an Interpretive Centre, is well-situated to meet your traveling needs. It is a beautiful place to stay en route further north or serves as its own destination to watch the fishing practices in the raging Moricetown Canyon, only steps away. Off of Highway 6 on the Telkwa High Road, the campground includes fully serviced bathrooms, showers, and fire pits. As of this summer, the bathrooms will be wheelchair accessible.
Home of the Moricetown Band
Phone: (250) 847-1471
Location: Moricetown, BC
4. Lone Cone Trail
The Lone Cone Trail campsites are thoughtfully positioned to maximize privacy and take advantage of a breathtaking white sand beach. There are three community stone fire pits among the sites to encourage guests to gather and cook their evening meals, or just relax and swap tales or sing songs.
Home of the Ahousaht First Nation
Phone:1.250.725.2169
Location: Tofino, BC
5. Qualicum First Nation Campground
The Qualicum First Nation Campground is a very popular vacation destination, centrally located a short 14-minute drive from Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. This large campsite offers a general store, eating areas and beach access to all campers. The beautiful water views from the tree cover of the campsites speak for themselves.
Home of the Qualicum First Nation
Phone: 250-757-9322
Address: Qualicum Beach, BC
6. Saysutshun – Newcastle Island
This marine campground located within Nanaimo’s harbour is a breathtaking place with spectacular panoramic views of the Harbour City and Coast Mountains.Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and your warm campfire while you camp with your friends, family or large group at the beautiful oceanside Newcastle Island campground. All the facilities are within walking distance, as this idyllic campsite is only accessible by foot ferry or boat. Stay for up to 14 days when the season opens on May 1 each year.
Home of the Snuneymuxw First Nation
Location: New Castle Island, BC
7. Pacheedaht First Nation Campground
Pacheedaht First Nations Campground is located on the shores of San Juan Beach, a stone’s throw from the activity of Port Renfrew. The campground is located in Port Renfrew next to a wide swath of log-covered beach. There are fishing charters, hiking trails and other interests for everyone. Attractions in the area include pools of marine life for low tide viewing, and Canada’s largest Fir Tree.
Home of the Pacheedaht First Nation
Phone:(250) 647-0090
Location: Port Renfrew, BC
8. Lakeshore Resort & Campground
The Lakeshore Resort and Campground is the Columbia Valley’s largest lakeshore campground! These sites are ideally located a few short kilometres north of Fairmont Hot Springs. Several types of overnight camping and rental options exist at the Lakeshore Resort and Campground: tipi rentals; non-serviced and electricity only serviced sites. In addition to world-class recreation, Lakeshore has a variety of the ?akisq’nuk First Nation cultural events all summer long. Nightly campers have access to all Lakeshore Resort and Campground amenities.
Home of the Akis“nuk First Nation
Phone: 250-342-6352
Location: Windermere, BC
9. Chief Will-Yum campground
Chief Will-Yum campground is a full-service RV and campsite facility. Minutes away from the City of Williams Lake and immediately adjacent to the Coyote Rock Golf Course, Chief Will-Yum backs onto the hillside above Williams Lake, where you can explore extensive trails and enjoy the beautiful vistas.
Home of the Secwepemc people
Phone: 250-296-4352.
Location: Williams Lake, BC
10. Hiellen Longhouse Village
Owned and operated by the Old Massett Village Council’s Economic Development Team, the Hiellen village is located next to provincial park land, and is surrounded by endless beaches, wilderness and outdoor adventure on Haida Gwaii. Bald Eagles and Ravens, the two main crests of the Haida nation, greet and observe you along your adventures. Deer, whales, sea lions abound. The journey is well worth it for an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Home of the Haida Nation
Phone: 1-888-378-4422
Location: Masset, Haida Gwaii, BC
11. Sooke Potholes Spring Salmon Campground
Camp under the stars, swim in the potholes, ride the Galloping Goose. This campground is located on the north end of Sooke Potholes Regional Park and is adjacent to the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This is one of BC’s most popular riverside campgrounds. The Potholes, along the Sooke River, are unique geological formations of deep, polished rock pools, and carved canyons. These clear green pools can be used for swimming, and are surrounded by waterfalls, gorges, and the forests of the Sooke Hills.
Home of the T’Souke Nation
Phone: 250.642.3957
Location: Sooke, BC
12. Shuswap Meadows RV & Campground
Shuswap Meadows RV Campground is located on the North side of the South Thompson River (slow moving side) and is just minutes from the Little Shuswap Lake and 20km from the Big Shuswap Lake. 2017 season is featuring 10 exclusive one of a kind RV lots with 65 feet of private waterfront. These pull-through sites allow you to park parallel to the water so you can enjoy the view as seen above. Each lot has privacy fences and includes a picnic table and fire pit with ample parking for a boat, toys, and truck. These sites are all serviced with 100 amp power and water.
Home of the Secwepmec people
Phone: 250-299-4678 (GORV)
Location: Chase, BC
