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Short & Unforgettable Camper Van Trip in BC This Summer

  • Nicol M.
  • Mar 7
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 13

There’s nothing like packing up a camper van and setting off on a 5 to 10-day adventure through British Columbia. With winding coastal highways, mountain passes, and lakeside campsites, this trip is all about soaking in the beauty of the province at your own pace. Whether it’s the salty ocean breeze in Tofino, the alpine air in Whistler, or the warm vineyards of the Okanagan, every stop brings something special. Spend your days hiking to hidden waterfalls, swimming in glacier-fed lakes, or simply unwinding by a crackling fire at a quiet campground. The beauty of traveling in a van is the flexibility to wake up with a new view every morning, without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. If you’re looking for a refreshing way to experience British Columbia, a road trip like this brings together adventure, relaxation, and the simple joys of life on the road.


Woman in a car studies a map on a deserted road trip with mountains in the background in british columbia. Sunny day, light breeze, adventure vibe.

The Best Route for a Short but Memorable Road Trip

Vancouver → Vancouver Island

Start your adventure in Vancouver, a city that blends urban charm with breathtaking scenery. After grabbing supplies, catch a ferry to Vancouver Island, where rugged coastlines and lush forests set the stage for an unforgettable road trip.

Must-See Stops:

  • Pacific Rim National Park (hiking & beaches)

  • Cathedral Grove (massive old-growth trees)

  • Tofino (surf, seafood & chill coastal vibes)

Where to Camp: Green Point Campground (Pacific Rim National Park)

Victoria & the Gulf Islands

After soaking up Tofino’s laid-back atmosphere, head south to Victoria, BC’s charming capital. Stroll through Fisherman’s Wharf, visit Beacon Hill Park, and hop on a ferry to one of the Gulf Islands for a slower-paced island escape.

Must-See Stops:

  • Butchart Gardens (Victoria)

  • Salt Spring Island (artisan markets & scenic hikes)

  • Galiano Island (hidden beaches & quiet forests)

Where to Camp: Ruckle Provincial Park (Salt Spring Island)

Sea-to-Sky & Interior Lakes

Whistler & the Sea-to-Sky Highway road

Take the ferry back to the mainland and cruise along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, one of BC’s most scenic drives. Stop along the way to chase waterfalls, hike alpine trails, and enjoy mountain town vibes in Whistler.

Must-See Stops:

  • Shannon Falls & Brandywine Falls

  • Garibaldi Lake (a must for hikers!)

  • Whistler Village (outdoor adventures & great food)

Where to Camp: Riverside Campground (Whistler)

The Okanagan Valley

From Whistler, drive east into wine country, where rolling hills, warm weather, and gorgeous lakes make it the perfect summer stop. Take your time exploring wineries, floating down rivers, and enjoying fresh local produce. Must-See Stops:

  • Kelowna & Penticton (wineries, lakes & beaches)

  • Myra Canyon (stunning bike trails on old railway trestles)

  • Osoyoos (Canada’s only desert!)

Where to Camp: Nk’Mip Campground (Osoyoos)

The Kootenay Rockies

Nelson & the Hot Springs Route

From Osoyoos, venture into the Kootenay region, where winding mountain roads lead to hot springs, crystal-clear rivers, and charming towns. Nelson, known for its artsy vibe and historic buildings, is a must-visit.

Must-See Stops:

  • Ainsworth Hot Springs (natural mineral pools in a cave!)

  • Kootenay Lake (scenic ferry ride & hiking)

  • Nelson (boutiques, cafés & mountain views)

Where to Camp: Kokanee Creek Provincial Park


Garibaldi lake in British Columbia with clear water, surrounded by lush pine trees and mountains under a bright blue sky. A wooden dock extends into the water.

Final Thoughts: Why BC is Perfect for a Camper Van Road Trip Adventure


British Columbia has it all—towering mountains, rugged coastlines, pristine lakes, and charming small towns. Whether you prefer the crashing waves of the Pacific, the peaceful isolation of a forested campground, or the energy of a bustling mountain town, BC delivers a little bit of everything. Traveling by camper van lets you take in these landscapes at your own pace, with the freedom to stop wherever the road calls. One night you could be camped along a turquoise lake, the next watching the sunset over a rocky shoreline, and the day after that waking up surrounded by towering cedars. The rhythm of life slows down when you’re living on the road—mornings start with fresh coffee brewed in the crisp mountain air, afternoons are filled with spontaneous detours to hidden waterfalls, and evenings end by the campfire, sharing stories under a sky full of stars.

With so many breathtaking routes to choose from, every road trip through British Columbia feels like a new experience. Whether you’re venturing along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, winding through the Okanagan’s rolling hills, or finding solitude in the Kootenays, the journey itself is just as rewarding as the destination. There’s no need to rush—take time to explore off-the-beaten-path trails, enjoy the simple pleasure of a lake swim, or pull over at a scenic overlook just because the view is too good to pass up.

If you’re ready to embrace the van life lifestyle, all you need is a map, a camper van, and a sense of adventure. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let British Columbia surprise you with its endless beauty.


 
 
 

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