1. Tsawaak RV Resort (Tofino, BC)
Camping in Canada: 5 Top Destinations In Western Canada, Pro Tips and More
Camping in Western Canada is a chance to escape the everyday and experience nature at its best. From waking up to ocean views to falling asleep under clear, starry skies, it's a perfect way to unwind. But getting the most out of your trip means a little preparation, especially since campgrounds can fill up fast, the weather can change unexpectedly, and power isn't always guaranteed. Here are five must-visit spots, along with some tips and gear to help you make the most of your adventure.
1. Tsawaak RV Resort (Tofino, BC)
Nestled right on Mackenzie Beach, Tsawaak RV Resort blends modern comfort with raw West Coast beauty. It's currently one of the highest-rated RV resorts in Canada (4.8/5 on Campspot) and a 2025 “Top in Canada” award winner. July is prime time here, with sunny beach days and whale sightings just offshore.
Why Campers Love It:
Direct beach access to Mackenzie Beach—no driving needed to catch the sunset or morning surf.
Surrounded by ancient rainforests, offering shade, serenity, and a true sense of place.
Perfect for kayaking and SUP in calm waters; rentals nearby.
Whale-watching opportunities in nearby Clayoquot Sound (especially July–August).
Full RV hook-ups and ultra-clean facilities with private showers.
Spacious tent sites for those seeking a more natural, unplugged experience.
2. Pacific Playgrounds Oceanside Resort (Black Creek, BC)
Tucked between Courtenay and Campbell River, this family-oriented resort on Vancouver Island combines coastal charm with modern comforts. It’s a 2025 Campspot awardee and popular for group trips and extended stays.
Why It Stands Out:
- Sandy beachfront along the Salish Sea—great for tidepooling and beach games.
- Full-service marina, ideal for fishing, crabbing, or scenic boat rentals.
- Tons of family activities: heated pool, sports courts, playgrounds, mini-golf.
- Close to world-class salmon fishing, with charter services available on-site.
- Short drive to Miracle Beach and Seal Bay Nature Park for easy day hikes.
- Spotless washrooms and a well-run camp store with groceries, ice cream, and gear.
3. Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina (Metchosin, BC)
Just outside Victoria, this scenic marina-side campground is ideal for a peaceful escape without sacrificing convenience. Known for its wildlife viewing and water-based recreation, it’s a rising favorite among RV travelers in 2025.
Reasons to Visit in 2025:
- Panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains from your campsite.
- Marina access with kayak and boat rentals, great for exploring hidden coves.
- Frequent sightings of eagles, seals, otters, and sometimes even orcas.
- Spacious, full-hook-up RV sites (powering these sites with solar panels), many with private patios and ocean views.
- Walking distance to forested trails, including the stunning Pearson College trails.
- On-site tackle shop and fishing charters—some of the best halibut fishing in BC.
4. Wells Gray Provincial Park (Clearwater, BC)
Famous for its dozens of waterfalls (like Helmcken Falls) and remote beauty, Wells Gray offers a raw camping experience. July and August are peak seasons for hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry paddling.
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
- Helmcken Falls—Canada’s fourth-highest waterfall—is a short hike from the main campground.
- Multiple front-country campgrounds (Pyramid, Falls Creek, Clearwater Lake) with well-maintained amenities.
- Canoe/kayak adventures on Clearwater and Azure Lakes with backcountry campsites only reachable by water.
- Wildlife-rich area: black bears, moose, deer, and countless birds.
- Quiet, uncrowded sites, ideal for serious hikers or anyone needing a nature detox.
- Firewood, basic groceries, and maps are available at local outfitters just outside the park.
5. Columbia Icefield Campground (Jasper National Park, AB)
Perched on the Icefields Parkway and facing the massive Athabasca Glacier, this tent-only site is a truly alpine experience. If you're camping in July, expect chilly nights, crisp air, and unmatched views of glacial peaks.
Why It’s Unforgettable:
- Front-row views of the Columbia Icefield—a once-in-a-lifetime camping backdrop.
- Tented-only campground = low light pollution, quiet atmosphere, and no generator noise.
- Great base for glacier tours, Skywalk excursions, and Icefields Parkway stops.
- Incredible night skies thanks to Jasper’s status as a designated Dark Sky Preserve.
- Trails nearby for Toe of the Glacier, Wilcox Pass, and Parker Ridge.
- Rustic but well-kept amenities—vault toilets, picnic tables, and bear-safe food storage.
Quick Comparison
| Campground | Best For | Unique Feature | Summer Booking Tip |
| Tsawaak RV Resort | Beach + Surf Lovers | Old-growth forest & beachfront | Book 2–3 months ahead |
| Pacific Playgrounds | Families & Boaters | Marina + full kid activities | Watch for 3-night minimum |
| Pedder Bay | Wildlife & Fishing | Olympic Mountain views | Ideal for long weekends |
| Wells Gray Park | Waterfall Chasers | Dozens of falls + lake paddling | Combine with kayak rentals |
| Columbia Icefield | Glacial Views | Tent-only with glacier views | Pack for cold even in July |
Pro Tips for Camping in Canada
Camping in Canada, especially Western provinces like British Columbia and Alberta, can be unforgettable. But it also requires smart planning due to unpredictable weather, wildlife, and remote conditions. These tips will help you stay safe, comfortable, and fully prepared.
Reserve Your Spot Early
Be Bear Smart
- Western Canada is grizzly and black bear country.
- Store all food and scented items in bear lockers or hard-sided vehicles.
- Use bear spray if hiking into backcountry areas—know how to use it.
- Never leave trash or food unattended, even for a few minutes.
Prepare for All Weather
- Even in July, mountain areas can drop below freezing at night.
- Pack layered clothing, waterproof jackets, and thermal sleeping bags.
- Always bring a tarp or rain shelter—it can rain unexpectedly along the coast or in the Rockies.
Follow Fire Regulations
Fire bans are common in summer due to wildfire risk.
Check local fire status on the BC Wildfire Service or Alberta Wildfire websites before lighting any fire.
Use propane stoves as backup cooking options.
Know the Rules of Crown Land Camping (if going remote)
- Canadians can camp for free on Crown land (public land), but rules vary by province.
- In BC and Alberta, you can usually stay up to 14 days per location, but you’ll need to pack in/pack out everything.
- Crown land often lacks toilets, water, or fire pits—come prepared.
Fuel Up Before Remote Areas
- Gas stations can be 100 km apart in areas like the Icefields Parkway or Wells Gray.
- Keep your tank at least half full, especially before heading to mountainous or forested routes.
Bring a Camping Power Station
Many campgrounds—especially tent-only or wilderness sites like the Columbia Icefield—have no electricity hookups. This makes a portable power station more than a convenience; it's a camping essential.
A reliable battery can charge phones, lights, GPS units, or even run small cooking appliances. For off-grid trips, especially in the Rockies or northern BC, solar-compatible models help extend your energy supply.
Look for units that offer:
600Wh+ capacity for multi-day trips
Fast recharging from AC or solar panels
Lightweight design for easy transport
Built-in safety features and surge protection
Smart energy monitoring to track output and usage
Recommended Power Station for Camping for 2025 Camping in Canada:
EcoFlow TRAIL 300 – Ideal for light and compact trips.
With a 288Wh capacity and 140W output (up to 140W input/output), it weighs just 2.7 kg (5.95 lbs) and is small enough to fit into any gear bag (5.67 * 6.47 inches). It features 2 USB-A 12W ports and is perfect for short trips where you need a simple, efficient backup power source.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro – Ideal for weekend or short remote trips.
With a 768Wh capacity and 800W output (up to 1600W with X-Boost), it weighs just 7.8 kg and recharges to 100% in only 70 minutes. It supports AC, car, solar, and USB-C charging and provides up to 1.8kWh per day when paired with solar.
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max – Best for longer adventures, RV users, or larger families.
It delivers up to 3400W with X-Boost, can power 99% of home devices, and expands from 2kWh to 6kWh with an extra battery. It features dual AC + solar recharging, fast input speeds, and 99% MPPT efficiency for solar charging.
Summary
Western Canada has no shortage of unforgettable places to pitch a tent or park your RV—from glacier views and quiet lakes to beachside forests filled with wildlife. But the best trips come down to timing, prep, and having the right gear. Whether you're chasing waterfalls in Wells Gray or stargazing near the Columbia Icefield, a little planning goes a long way. With the right campsite, a few smart tools (like a reliable camping power station), and a good weather app, you’re set for the kind of camping trip you’ll want to repeat every summer.