British Columbia’s national park system is one for the record books. Incredible scenery, countless recreational activities, and tons of wildlife will certainly keep things interesting.
But you’ll want to know the best spots for RVers before packing your bags.
So, we’ve gathered five of the best travel destinations in Western Canada for you.
Let’s get into it!
Why British Columbia’s National Parks are Worth a Visit
Western Canada has it all for travel enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and thrill-seekers alike. In British Columbia, the county’s westernmost province, the terrain varies from temperate rainforest and craggy mountains to desert plains.
The Pacific Coast is generally comfortable year-round, while more inland areas reach frigid temperatures in winter. However, there’s a lot to love here, no matter when you visit.
Summer brings hordes of vacationers to locations around the province. Many enjoy paddling the lakes, fishing the streams, as well as hiking through the striking countryside. But when snow begins to fall, skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers flock to the Canadian Rockies.
Of course, there’s no shortage of excitement here! Check out five of the ultimate national parks in British Columbia.
#1 Pacific Rim National Park
Pacific Rim National Park is a must-see travel destination on the western coast of Canada’s Vancouver Island. This area is part coastal marine sanctuary, part lowland rainforest, and 100% adventure-ready.
Stretching over 75 miles, Pacific Rim offers countless recreational opportunities. You can surf epic waves, hike through majestic woodlands, or paddle among the Broken Group Islands of Barkley Sound. You might also encounter rare and endangered plant life, such as pink sand verbena and beach morning glory.
Multi-use pathways traverse the property, providing the perfect place to cycle, walk, or jog. Additionally, you can explore the 45-mile West Coast Trail, which includes suspension bridges, ladder systems, and challenging terrain.
Green Point Campground
Before setting up camp, it’s important to note that you’ll need a valid permit to overnight anywhere in the park. Once you’re covered, it’s time to head to Green Point Campground.
Nearly 100 gravel pads at Green Point offer a home away from home for RV campers. Sites include 15/30-amp electrical hookups, a picnic table, plus a fire ring. Water taps and a dump station are nearby. You’ll also have access to restrooms with showers and flush toilets. Finally, the park provides trash and recycling services.
We know sites can hold rigs up to 30’, but you may want to call for more information if your setup is longer.
Want a trans-continental tour of Canada? Check out 7 Must-See Destinations in New Brunswick!
#2 Mount Revelstoke National Park
Back on the mainland, Mount Revelstoke National Park lies in central British Columbia, about three hours west of Banff. This is an excellent place to take in the beauty of the Canadian Rockies by car or on foot. In fact, Meadows in the Sky Parkway allows you to summit a mountain via a brief jaunt from your vehicle!
Of course, explorers who are up for a challenge can test their grit on more difficult trails. You’ll have your pick of 20 paths that’ll take you past crystal-clear mountain lakes, alpine wildflower fields, and gorgeous scenic vistas. Some accessible trails even have boardwalks.
You can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or hit the slopes in winter.
Snowforest Campground
Snowforest Campground is a fantastic option for RV travelers in Western Canada. Its many pull-through sites make it especially big-rig friendly. Serviced spots include 20/30/50-amp electric, as well as a fire pit and picnic table. Water taps, plus restrooms with showers and flush toilets, are also available to campers.
We hear conflicting reports on dump station access, so call ahead if you need a place to empty your black tank. Be aware that this Snowforest is only open from May to October.
What are Provincial Parks, and Can You RV Camp at These Exciting Spots?
#3 Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Wildlife lovers won’t want to miss a chance to explore the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve on British Columbia’s Pacific Coast. This park is in the safety of the Salish Sea, between Vancouver Island and the mainland. It’s a haven for bald eagles, songbirds, plus endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales.
Paddle along the waters, perch on a rock overlooking the ocean, or take to the 13 hiking trails to tour the landscape. Knowledgeable rangers lead tons of interpretive programs where you can whale watch, learn about local underwater ecology, and get to know the region’s unusual flora.
SMONEĆTEN Campground
Open from May to September, the SMONEĆTEN Campground offers 49 primitive RV sites with picnic tables and fire pits. Aside from pit toilets and water taps throughout the property, you shouldn’t expect any amenities. However, the beautiful scenery should make up for it.
SMONEĆTEN is a great starting point for cyclists to traverse the Lochside Cycling Trail.
Know Before You Go: Learn how to pronounce the name SMONEĆTEN at the Gulf Islands National Park’s official website.
#4 Kootenay National Park
Just across the provincial border from Banff, British Columbia’s Kootenay National Park offers all the stunning scenery of its neighbor without the massive crowds.
Kootenay is a year-round recreational playground. In temperate seasons, you can scout for fossils on a guided hike, explore the mountains, and birdwatch. During winter, the slopes come alive with adrenaline-seekers. Meanwhile, folks seeking tranquility soak their bones at the healing Radium Hot Springs.
Redstreak Campground
We suspect you’ll want to stick around for a while. Who could blame you? Redstreak Campground is the place to be!
Of the 200+ RV sites, 50 have full hookups with 20/30-amp service, fire rings, and picnic tables. The ADA-accessible restrooms have flush toilets, plus the park offers recycling services. You’ll also have access to the on-site dump station. Several pull-thru sites are big-rig friendly.
#5 Yoho National Park
On the other side of the province, Yoho National Park is another Rocky Mountain destination in British Columbia. You won’t want to forget your camera for this locale!
When the weather is warm, hiking, fishing, as well as cycling are some of the top activities in the area. You’ll also find folks hunting for fossils among the Burgess Shale deposit. But ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing become the norm in winter.
Kicking Horse Campground
Boondockers will love Kicking Horse Campground. This spot features 88 unserviced sites available from May to October. You can use the ADA-accessible restrooms with showers and flush toilets, fill up your water tanks at taps throughout the property, and empty your black tank at the dump station.
Many sites are big-rig friendly with a fire pit and picnic table.
If you can’t get a reservation at Kicking Horse, try Takakkaw Falls or Hoodoo Creek. Both offer similar amenities within the park.
Ready to plan your trip? Grab a copy of Lonely Planet’s Guide to British Columbia!
British Columbia National Parks Won’t Disappoint!
You’ll enjoy spectacular sights, exciting outdoor adventures, and plenty of educational opportunities when traveling through Western Canada.
The next time you travel through British Columbia, be sure to hit the province’s incredible national parks. We think this region deserves a place on your bucket list!
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