Why Now Is the Time to Book Your 2026 Vancouver Island Camping Trips
As we look ahead to spring break and summer, now is the moment to start planning your 2026 camping season. Many BC Parks and private campgrounds have already released their booking windows, and popular sites on Vancouver Island fill quickly. A little early planning can be the difference between finding your dream campsite or settling for whatever is left.
Camping has always been one of our favourite ways to slow down, reconnect as a family, and explore the Island in a more meaningful way. Whether you are thinking of a backcountry adventure, a waterfall-side forest stay, or a beachfront campsite with sunset views, planning ahead is a must. Long gone are the days of deciding on spur of the moment camping trip and finding a spot.
This guide will help you think through your 2026 camping plans, highlight some of our favourite Vancouver Island camping spots, and point you to helpful resources to make planning easier.
Why you should start planning your 2026 camping season now
Camping demand on Vancouver Island continues to grow. Spring break, long weekends, and peak summer dates are often fully booked within minutes of reservations opening. Even shoulder season weekends are becoming more competitive, especially for coastal and destination campgrounds.
Planning ahead allows you to:
- Align camping trips with school holidays and work schedules
- Coordinate ferry bookings and travel routes
- Choose campsites that match your comfort level and gear
- Mix busier trips with quieter, off the beaten path experiences
- Build a realistic camping calendar for the year ahead
If you are new to camping, early planning also gives you time to gather gear, test equipment, and build confidence before peak season arrives.
Spring break camping on Vancouver Island
Spring break is an ideal time to ease into the camping season. The weather can be unpredictable, but crowds are lighter and booking competition is often less intense than summer.
Look for campgrounds with:
- Easy access and well maintained facilities
- Forest cover for wind and rain protection
- Proximity to short hikes and kid friendly adventures
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park
Little Qualicum Falls is one of our favourite early season camping spots. The campground is surrounded by lush forest and offers quick access to stunning waterfalls and riverside trails that are especially dramatic in spring.
The park has two campgrounds, Lower and Upper, with well-spaced sites that feel private and calm. It is a great option for families who want an easy introduction to camping with minimal driving once you arrive.
Summer camping favourites on the Island
Summer is when Vancouver Island camping truly shines. From rugged beaches to old growth forests, there is no shortage of unforgettable places to pitch a tent.
San Josef Bay Backcountry Camping
San Josef Bay, located in Cape Scott Provincial Park, is one of the most memorable backcountry camping experiences on the Island. A relatively flat hike through forest leads to a wide, sandy beach backed by sea stacks and sweeping views.
This is a true pack in, pack out experience and is best suited to campers who are comfortable carrying gear and navigating basic backcountry conditions. That said, it is one of the more accessible backcountry trips and a favourite for families looking to try something new.
Why plan early?
- Parking can be limited
- You will want to align tides and weather windows, especially if you are hiking into Second Beach to camp.
- Gear planning and food preparation is essential
Green Point Campground, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Green Point is one of the most sought after campgrounds on the west coast. Located within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, it offers forested campsites just steps from Long Beach.
This campground is perfect for surfers, beach walkers, and anyone who loves falling asleep to the sound of the ocean. Sites are well managed, but bookings are extremely competitive. See our family guide to Ucluelet and Tofino.
Tips for success:
- Know your booking date and time
- Have flexible travel dates if possible
- Consider weekday stays
Wya Point Resort private campground, Ucluelet
For those who want west coast beauty with a few extra comforts, Wya Point Resort is a standout option. This private campground offers oceanfront sites, forested areas, and access to a stunning beach that is far less busy than other local beaches. They also have some glamping options if you are looking to be outdoors without sleeping in a tent. More on glamping here.
It is an excellent choice for families or couples who want a more relaxed camping experience without sacrificing scenery.
A coastal adventure on the wish list for 2026
Pachena Bay, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
Pachena Bay is a family favourite that I haven’t yet made it to and 2026 feels like the year to make it happen. Located at the northern end of the West Coast Trail, Pachena Bay offers sandy beaches, coastal hiking, and a true west coast atmosphere.
This campground is ideal for campers who want:
- Beachfront camping
- Easy access to day hikes
- A quieter alternative to more central west coast spots
How to build your 2026 camping plan
Instead of planning trips one at a time, consider mapping out your entire camping season.
Start by:
- Listing key dates such as spring break, long weekends, and summer holidays
- Matching destinations to seasons, forest parks in spring, beaches in summer
- Mixing familiar favourites with one new experience
- Prioritising bookings that sell out fastest
- Leaving space for spontaneous shoulder season trips
This approach reduces stress and helps you make intentional choices about how you spend your time.
Gear and preparation tips for early planners
Planning ahead is also an opportunity to review your camping gear and routines.
Consider:
- Testing your tent and rain fly before the season starts
- Refreshing your meal planning system
- Updating kids gear as they grow
- Reviewing safety essentials for backcountry trips
If you are building confidence, starting with serviced or private campgrounds before moving into backcountry trips can be a great progression.
Start now and thank yourself later
With bookings now open and demand higher than ever, planning your 2026 camping season early is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. It creates space for anticipation, flexibility, and unforgettable Island adventures.
Whether you are returning to favourite campgrounds or finally ticking off a spot that has been on your list for years, a little planning now means more time enjoying campfires, beach walks, and slow mornings under the trees.
Camping season is coming. The best sites are waiting for those who plan ahead.
