Let’s be honest—when most people think of British Columbia, they picture jaw-dropping mountains, lush forests, and those iconic glassy lakes. And they’re not wrong! But there’s more to this beautiful province than just the postcard views. If you love the outdoors and good food (who doesn’t?), BC is your ultimate playground. Think: campfires under the stars and farmers’ markets bursting with fresh, local goodies. Sounds dreamy, right?
Wake Up in the Wild
Camping in BC isn’t just about setting up a tent or parking your RV—it’s about experiencing the wild. You’ll fall asleep to rustling trees, wake up with the sun peeking over snowy peaks (in season), and sip your morning brew to the call of loons. Whether you’re beachside, mountainside, or deep in the forest, there’s a camping spot with your name on it.
Need some inspiration? Here are a few BC gems to put on your list:
- 🌊 Pacific Rim National Park (Vancouver Island): Ocean views, rainforest hikes, and Tofino vibes.
- 🏖 Rathtrevor Beach: Low tide fun, sandy toes, and kid-friendly adventures.
- 🏞 Golden Ears Provincial Park: Gorgeous hikes and Insta-worthy scenery.
- 🍷 Okanagan Lake Park: Lakeside camping plus nearby wineries? Yes, please.
- 🛁 Liard River Hot Springs: Because soaking in a natural hot spring after a long drive is everything.
And if you’re not sure where to start, check out the Camping & RV in BC website to help you map out your next route and reserve a site (trust us—some book up fast!).
Market Hopping: The Ultimate Road Trip Add-On
Here’s the magic: when you pair camping with local farmers’ markets, you get a vacation that’s part nature, part foodie adventure. As you travel from one campsite to the next, stop at nearby markets to pick up fresh produce, handmade bread, local honey, jam, cheese… you name it!
Here are a few must-visit markets:
- 🧺 Kelowna Farmers’ & Crafters’ Market: Fresh fruit, lavender, and local vibes.
- 🧑🎨 Salt Spring Island Market: Artsy, friendly, and full of island-grown goodness.
- 🏔 Whistler Farmers’ Market: Shop with a mountain view.
- 🌞 Penticton Farmers’ Market: The 1st market was located in Gyro Park and has been in downtown Penticton since 1991.
And if you want even more ideas, check out the BC Farmers’ Market Trail App—it’s a great tool to find farmers’ markets all over the province.
From Farmers’ Market Finds to Campfire Feasts
Let’s talk about food! Picture this: grilling corn from a market stall, frying up free-range eggs, or roasting potatoes next to freshly caught trout (if you’re lucky!). There’s nothing like cooking outdoors with food you picked up that morning.
Handy tip: Keep a cooler or insulated bag in your vehicle to stash your market finds so they stay fresh. Perfect for campsite dinners or spontaneous roadside picnics!
A Few Extra Camping Tips (Straight from the Pros at CampingRVBC.com):
- 🔥 Always check fire bans and park advisories before you go.
- 🐻 Be bear-smart—store food safely and clean up after meals.
- 🎒 Pack reusable bags and containers for market trips.
- 🏕 Follow the Camper’s Code: Respect nature, be kind to fellow campers, and leave no trace.
Go Slow, Eat Local, Camp Often
Combining camping with farmers’ market stops is the ultimate slow travel experience. You’ll meet local growers, try new foods, and really soak in the character of each community. It’s all about connection—to the land, the people, and the moment.
So next time you plan a camping getaway in BC, sprinkle a few markets into your itinerary. Trust us—your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll leave with a full cooler and a full heart.