10 Best Free Campsites Near Vancouver
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without breaking the bank?
Vancouver’s stunning natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for adventure, and the best part is, you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy them. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a serene spot to unwind, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best free campsites near Vancouver. From tranquil forest retreats to picturesque lakeside spots, these campsites provide the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor getaway.
Pack your gear, grab your friends or family, and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful, budget-friendly camping locations in the region.
Discover the 10 Best Free Campsites Near Vancouver
Camping is a cherished pastime for many in Vancouver, and it’s fantastic to find free spots where you can enjoy nature without spending a fortune. We’ve done the legwork to uncover some of the best no-cost campsites around Vancouver so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
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1. Camp at Brockton Point
Website: Mount Seymour
Address: 1908 C. Chapman; B. Darling; W. Gray; G. Harrow; R. Mills
Operating Hours: Daily, 9am – 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 24.3 km
A short drive from downtown Vancouver, Mount Seymour offers spectacular views of the city, Mount Baker, and Indian Arm Park. While there’s no official camping area here, you can set up your tent north of Brockton Point. Facilities are lacking, so be sure to bring everything you need.
Pro Tip: Avoid camping south of Brockton Point as it is not permitted.
2. Experience Jones Lake
Website: Jones Lake Recreation
Address: Fraser Valley, BC V0X 1X1, Canada
Operating Hours: May 1 – October 31, Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 145.2 km
Jones Lake offers two campgrounds: Jones Lake Main and Jones Lake West. Both feature accessible sites, pit toilets, and picnic areas. With stunning mountain views and a serene atmosphere, this spot is perfect for a tranquil escape.
Pro Tip: Jones Lake is only maintained from May 1 to October 15, so services may be limited outside this period.
3. Set Up Camp at Seton Lake
Website: BC Hydro
Address: Lillooet, British Columbia
Distance from Vancouver: 250.5 km
Seton Lake boasts a vibrant turquoise hue reminiscent of Lake Louise. The area offers various activities like boating, canoeing, hiking, and fishing. Don’t miss the viewpoint overlooking the reservoir for breathtaking scenery.
Pro Tip: The water can be quite cold, so plan your swim for August or September.
4. Enjoy the Scenic Squamish River
Website: Upper Squamish Valley
Address: Squamish-Lillooet, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 96.6 km
Camping by the Squamish River offers a peaceful retreat with nine tent spots, tables, fire rings, and some outhouses. Enjoy the majestic river and mountain views, though the water can be quite chilly.
Pro Tip: Bring your own water or treat water collected from the lake before use.
5. Stay at Vedder River
Website: Fraser Valley Regional District
Address: 5355 Giesbrecht Rd, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4R1, Canada
Operating Hours: Daily, 8am – 10pm
Distance from Vancouver: 103.7 km
Vedder River offers a well-equipped campsite with amenities such as showers, fire pits, and picnic tables. It’s ideal for tents, trailers, and RVs, with easy access to nearby trails.
Pro Tip: Be prepared for mosquitoes; consider bringing insect repellent.
6. Lodge at Falls Lake, Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area
Website: BC Parks
Address: Coquihalla Hwy, Yale, BC V0K 2S0, Canada
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Distance from Vancouver: 215.1 km
Falls Lake, nestled in the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, is perfect for a rugged outdoor experience. With walk-in campsites and backcountry options, this spot offers a true wilderness experience.
Pro Tip: The Coquihalla Highway can be hazardous in bad weather, so plan your trip accordingly.
7. Camp by Stave Falls
Website: BC Hydro
Address: British Columbia V4S 1C4, Canada
Operating Hours: Daily, 10am – 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 61.6 km
Stave Falls is a scenic campground with 30 sites and beautiful views of the Stave Reservoir. This location is perfect for those seeking tranquility and nature away from city crowds.
Pro Tip: Bears are common in the area; bringing bear spray is advisable.
8. Shelter at Strathcona Dam
Website: BC Hydro
Address: British Columbia V4S 1C4, Canada
Operating Hours: Daily, 10am – 4pm
Distance from Vancouver: 264.0 km
At the Upper Campbell Reservoir near Strathcona Dam, you’ll find 21 campsites with stunning views of the Campbell River watershed. Enjoy the beach area and fantastic fishing opportunities.
Pro Tip: There is no cell service here; ensure you have other means of communication and emergency equipment.
9. Build a Campfire at Gun Creek Campground
Website: BC Hydro
Address: Lillooet Pioneer Rd 40, Pavilion, BC V0N 1L0, Canada
Distance from Vancouver: 297.7 km
Gun Creek Campground offers 16 sites with picnic tables and restrooms, set by the picturesque Carpenter Reservoir. The area is rich with wildlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Pro Tip: Extra toilet paper is a good idea, even though it’s provided on-site.
10. Pitch Right by the Beach at Klaklakama Lake
Website: Vancouver Island
Address: Klaklakama Lakes, Mount Waddington, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Distance from Vancouver: 354.2 km
Klaklakama Lake features five official campsites, with some right by the beach. Enjoy the spacious sites and scenic views, with opportunities to spot various wildlife.
Pro Tip: Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings.
This concludes our roundup of the best free campsites near Vancouver. If you’re interested in more camping options, check out our guide to paid campsites in Vancouver or explore camper van rentals for a more comfortable experience.
