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  • Writer's pictureThis Maple Life

Five Cool Winter Camping Spots Near Vancouver

Updated: Feb 22

Hey there, winter adventurers! If you're up for some chilly fun near Vancouver, we've got just the thing for you. In this blog post, we'll spill the beans on five fantastic winter camping spots near Vancouver. And here's the bonus: we'll also spill the beans on a couple of affordable spots that do require a small fee but are totally worth it. So, get your winter gear ready, and let's explore the magic of winter camping near Vancouver!


Mt Seymour, BC







Winter Camping Near Vancouver: Our 5-site recommendation list goes as follows:


Mount Seymour Backpacking

Address: District of North Vancouver, British Columbia V7G 1L3


Description: Backpacking and winter camping trip to Mount Seymour in North Vancouver, BC. The surroundings are covered in snow. This trail offers a gentle hike with breathtaking views. It is crucial to plan the camping area carefully, choosing firm terrain and preferably a spot near pine trees to reduce wind exposure. Additionally, it's essential to be aware that the region is prone to avalanches, so being prepared is imperative.


Services: Non services


Fees and Info: Free


Mt Seymour, BC, winter camping near Vancouver

Address: 36583 Darrell Bay Rd, Squamish, BC V8B 0A6


Description: Klahanie Campground, a family-owned and operated establishment with over 55 years of service, is nestled off the Sea to Sky Highway. Situated a convenient 45-minute drive both north of Vancouver and south of Whistler, the campground offers scenic views of Howe Sound, the Stawamus Chief, and Shannon Falls. With year-round camping options for RVs, truck campers, tent trailers, and tents, the thoughtfully spaced and treed sites come equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Additionally, it is within walking distance to the Sea to Sky Gondola, various hiking trails, and rock climbing routes.


Services: The campground provides amenities such as internet access, private showers, flush toilets, washing stations, and more.


Fees and Info: From $48 weekly rates and from $58 weekend and long weekend rates (plus tax)


Address: Mission, BC


Description: Situated in Mission, this BC Parks campground is a lovely escape from the city. Nestled among tall second-growth conifers, it offers sixty-four campsites adjacent to the lake where you can enjoy a cold dip, a nice picnic, canoeing, fishing, or explore the short hikes that are around it.

Open all year, this vehicle-accessible campground operates as FCFS in the winter, which is also a great time to enjoy some peace and quiet in the forest surrounding the well-spaced sites.


Services: The campgroung provides amenities such as playground, picnic areas, flush toilets, showers (might differ in winter), and more.


Fees and Info: $18.00 per night per party. (additionally fees may apply). FCFS during the winter months.




Address: Squamish-Lillooet D, BC


Description: Situated less than an hour from downtown Vancouver, Porteau Cove is one of the most popular BC parks in the summer months. With its short proximity to Squamish, several head trails, and climbing spots, it makes it a prime location. Not only that, the park itself, although small, is undeniably beautiful, offering waterfront campsites and mountain views, as well as exciting activities like swimming and diving, which are perfect activities for the winter months (with the proper equipment) as the water is clearer.

Open all year round and offering walk-in sites as well as vehicle-accessible sites, this campground operates with a reservation system, and in the winter months, it can easily be reserved with less time noticed.  


Services: The campground provides amenities such as electrical hook-ups, picnic areas, boat launch and more. Beware of the adjacent train track noise disruption.


Fees and Info: $18.00 per night per party and $8.00 more per electrical hook-up site per night. Booking required year-round. When reservations are not available, sites are first come first serve.



Address: Fraser Valley, BC


Description: With two camping areas on each side of the lake, this campground features a small lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, hiking, and relaxing. The sites are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables, and some of them are also waterfront. If you plan to invite your friends, consider the Wood Lake Group Site, which features seven sites, each with a fire pit and picnic tables, and enough space for up to 35 people. Please make sure that you bring your own water, as there is no potable water or water taps, and garbage disposal is not available; therefore, pack out your garbage.


Services: This campground is considered to be dry camping. Therefore, there are no services other than outhouses and FOOD WASTE ONLY bear proof bins which you can find at the host site. 


Fees and Info: $18.00 per night per single site. FCFS during the winter months. To access this campground, you'll need to travel on a forest service log road, and although four-wheel drive is not required, it is highly recommended, especially if you are towing a trailer. No motors allowed.



Conclusion

That's the end of our guide to winter camping near Vancouver! Whether you pick a spot without reservations or a budget-friendly one, just remember to enjoy the snowy beauty. From Mount Seymour to Wood Lake, each place has its own cool adventure waiting for you.

So, get ready for a cozy night, stunning views, and lots of fun winter camping near Vancouver. The outdoors is calling – go make some awesome winter memories! Stay warm, stay safe, and happy camping!

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