Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinCamping is one of the most beloved outdoor activities here in Vancity! So, it’s a good thing we managed to find some of the best free campsites near Vancouver so you don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars just to pitch your tent.
Set up Camp at Brockton Point
Website: https://mtseymour.ca/
Address: 1908 C. Chapman; B. Darling; W. Gray; G. Harrow; R. Mills
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 24.3 km
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver is Mount Seymour. Here, the views of the city, Mount Baker, and Indian Arm Park are so scenic you’ll want to sit and stare at the breathtaking landscapes.
We’ve witnessed some mind-blowing sunsets and panoramic scenes from this spot. You’d be surprised how often it’s just you and the view with no crowds in sight!
Take note, however, that there’s really no official camping site at Mount Seymour. However, feel free to pitch a tent north of Brockton point. There are no facilities here so remember to pack everything you need.
Pro tip:
Camping on the south of Brockton Point is not allowed. So make sure you’re on the north side!
Enjoy the Wildlife at Jones Lake
Website: https://www.bchydro.com/community/recreation_areas/jones_lake.html
Address: Fraser Valley, BC V0X 1X1, Canada
Operating Hours: May 1 to October 31: Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 145.2 km
Here at Jones Lake, you’ll find two campgrounds: Jones Lake Main and Jones Lake West. Both spots have special campsites designed for wheelchairs, along with pit toilets and picnic areas.
Now, on Jones Lake Main, you’ve got 31 campsites in the north and 6 in the south. Just remember, there’s no drinking water on-site, so be sure to pack your own. As for Jones Lake West, it’s got 18 campsites and a parking lot that can fit six vehicles.
It’s not just the pristine lake that surrounds you here; you’re also cozied up amidst the mountains. The views get even more enchanting when there’s a drizzle and a touch of mist, as the clouds embrace those peaks in a magical way.
Pro tip:
Jones Lake is open to the public year round, but is only maintained May 1 to October 15 so expect limited services and facilities during the off-season.
Place a Tent at Seton Lake
Website: https://www.bchydro.com
Address: Lilloeet, British Columbia
Distance from Vancouver: 250.5 km
Seton Lake boasts that same mesmerizing turquoise hue you’ll find at Lake Louise. It’s an absolute gem for camping, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful place to rest during your journey to Kamloops.
They’ve got one campground with all sorts of activities, from boating and canoeing to hiking and fishing. Don’t forget the viewpoint that looks out over Seton Lake Reservoir, it’s a gem.
If you’re not yet tired of breathtaking views and serene lakes, definitely put Seton Lake on your must-see list. There’s a well-thought-out vantage point and a spacious parking area to take in the lake, the nearby mountains, hills, and the overall stunning scenery.
Pro tip:
Keep in mind, the water here is pretty chilly, and you’ll only find it comfortable for swimming in August or September.
Head to the Scenic Squamish River
Website: http://www.uppersquamishvalley.ca/discover/squamish-river/
Address: Squamish-Lillooet, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 96.6 km
Camping by the Squamish River is just pure serenity. You’ve got nine tent spots, complete with tables, fire rings, and a couple of outhouses. Plus, the backdrop of the mountains and the river is absolutely stunning.
This campground has a rustic charm and is nestled within a serene grove of trees. Some of the campsites are positioned right along the river, treating you to scenic mountain vistas.
Just a heads up, the water here is seriously chilly, and the current is pretty swift. So, it’s more of a place for a quick dip or just hanging out by the water.
Pro tip:
Keep in mind, there’s no water here, so it’s essential to bring your own. If you need water, you can gather it from the lake, but be sure to boil, filter, or treat it beforehand.
Reserve a Spot at Vedder River
Website: http://www.fvrd.ca/vrc
Address: 5355 Giesbrecht Rd, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4R1, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 10pm
Distance from Vancouver: 103.7 km
Located in Fraser Valley, Vedder River is a well-equipped (and free, of course) campsite with tents, trailers and RVs, with full or partial hookups and pull-through spots.
The site offers amenities such as showers, fire pits, picnic tables, and even a sani-dump, which is quite convenient. Plus, having the trails right next to the campground is a major bonus.
There are two sets of washrooms and showers, but the more accessible ones are a bit deeper into the park. And speaking of perks, the proximity to Cultus Lake is fantastic, so consider taking a little time to enjoy a quick swim there for a couple of hours.
Pro tip:
Be ready for lots of pesky mosquitoes. It’s a good idea to come prepared, perhaps even packing a Thermacell to keep those bugs at bay.
Lodge at Falls Lake in Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area
Website: https://bcparks.ca/coquihalla-summit-recreation-area/
Address: Coquihalla Hwy, Yale, BC V0K 2S0, Canada
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 215.1 km
Right between Hope and Merrit is Falls Lake, located in the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area. This spot is perfect for stretching your legs and experiencing that feeling of being in the middle of nowhere.
You can find walk-in campsites, 2 kilometers in at Falls Lake, and backcountry camping is an option within the park. There are also pit and flush toilets available at various rest areas throughout the park.
If you’re planning to hike up to the lake, we’re telling you it’s a bit steep and challenging, and it’s a dirt trail, so be prepared for some uneven terrain.
Pro tip:
The highway has a reputation for accidents and closures, so it’s best to avoid traveling on it when bad weather is in the forecast.
Camp beside the Mountains at Stave Falls
Website: https://www.bchydro.com/
Address: British Columbia V4S 1C4, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 61.6 km
Stave Falls is situated in the north-central Fraser Valley area, and it’s bounded by the Stave Lake Dam. It’s a perfect campground to escape the city crowds, and the lake and views are priceless.
This place also provides breathtaking views of Stave Reservoir, where the water levels can vary, revealing up to 300 meters of exposed foreshore at times. You’ll find a total of 30 campsites, including group sites for those larger get-togethers.
Pro tip:
Just a heads up: bring bear spray with you as the area you’ll be visiting is known for its frequent bear sightings.
Shelter below the Dam at Strathcona Dam
Website: https://www.bchydro.com
Address: British Columbia V4S 1C4, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 264.0 km
Drive on over to the Strathcona Dam and follow the path to the Upper Campbell Reservoir campground. You’ll find 21 campsites, a lovely beach area, an informal boat launch (but it’s for 4×4 vehicles only), and some fantastic fishing spots.
This campsite treats you to panoramic views of the Campbell River watershed and the Strathcona Provincial Park mountains. Plus, there are roads and trails aplenty, perfect for hiking and biking adventures.
Pro tip:
There is absolutely no cell service here so make sure to plan accordingly and bring any necessary communication devices or emergency equipment.
Build a Campfire at the Gun Creek Campground
Website: https://www.bchydro.com
Address: Lillooet Pioneer Rd 40, Pavilion, BC V0N 1L0, Canada
Distance from Vancouver: 297.7 km
Tucked away in the mountains, you’ll find the charming Gun Creek Campground, situated alongside the Carpenter Reservoir. With 16 first-come, first-serve campsites, you can enjoy the outdoors with the convenience of picnic tables and restrooms.
This area is teeming with wildlife, offering the chance to spot birds, wolves, bears, and chipmunks. Outhouses are available on-site, and there’s a nearby creek for added natural beauty.
It’s a well-kept, picturesque campground. If you’re searching for accommodations while exploring Bridge River Country, this is a good choice.
Pro tip:
They do provide toilet paper, but it’s a good idea to bring some extra, just in case.
Pitch Right by the Beach at Klaklakama Lake
Address: Klaklakama Lakes, Mount Waddington, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Distance from Vancouver: 354.2 km
The Klaklakama Lake campgrounds offer just five official sites with two pit toilets, but they can accommodate more than five campers because three of those sites, especially the one by the beach, are quite spacious.
You’ll discover two recreational sites on these lakes. The smaller lower Klaklakama Lake features a small camping area with space for approximately five groups and a boat launch.
Meanwhile, the upper Klaklakama Lake rec site includes a sandy beach, another boat launch, and some trees growing right within the site. Here, you can camp with about four groups.
Pro tip:
Animals here are not camera-shy so it’s a great idea to bring your camera so you can take a snap of bears, deers, cougars, and a whole lot more of forest animals.
This is where our list ends of the best free campsites in Vancouver. But hey, if you’re willing to shell out a few bucks, check out our article on camping in Vancouver.
Also, we got this article on the best camper van rentals in Vancouver if you’re looking for a more comfortable and convenient camping experience.
