The Best Of
Campbell River
Or
CONNECTED CONTENT
Discover The Best Of Campbell River
Below you will find all of related trips, ventures, articles, and guides related to this place.
From The
Travel Journal
As Part Of These
Trips
Related
Articles
Making The Most of Our Unforgettable Summer on Vancouver Island
INFO & RESOURCES
Everything You Need To Know About
Campbell River
Quick Facts
Location: East Coast, Vancouver Island, BC
Region: North Central Island
Population: ~35,000
From Victoria: 260 km (~3 hours)
From Nanaimo: 160 km (~1.5 hours)
Known For: Salmon fishing, whale watching
Best Season: Year-round (summer peak)
Info
Getting There
Drive north on Highway 19 from Nanaimo (~1.5 hours) or from Victoria (~3 hours).
Airport
Campbell River Airport (YBL) with flights from Vancouver.
Website
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Campbell River known for?
Campbell River is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and serves as Vancouver Island's gateway to the northern wilderness. The city offers world-class fishing, whale watching, kayaking, and access to stunning natural attractions like Elk Falls and Strathcona Provincial Park.
Where is Campbell River located?
Campbell River is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island at the south end of Discovery Passage, approximately 260 km north of Victoria and 160 km north of Nanaimo. It sits along the 50th parallel and the important Inside Passage shipping route.
How do I get to Campbell River?
From Nanaimo, drive north on Highway 19 for approximately 1.5 hours. From Victoria, follow Highway 1 north to Nanaimo, then Highway 19—total drive time is approximately 3 hours. Campbell River Airport offers regional flights from Vancouver.
What outdoor activities are available in Campbell River?
Campbell River offers exceptional fishing (salmon, halibut), whale watching tours, kayaking Discovery Passage, hiking at Elk Falls Provincial Park, skiing at Mount Washington, scuba diving with sixgill sharks, and exploring Strathcona Provincial Park.
When is the best time to visit Campbell River?
Summer (June–September) is ideal for fishing, kayaking, and whale watching. August–October brings the famous salmon runs. Winter offers skiing at nearby Mount Washington. The mild climate makes it a year-round destination.
Can you see whales in Campbell River?
Yes! Campbell River is one of BC's premier whale watching destinations. Orca (killer whales), humpbacks, grey whales, and Pacific white-sided dolphins are regularly spotted in Discovery Passage.
What is the best fishing in Campbell River?
Campbell River is legendary for Tyee salmon fishing—chinook salmon over 30 pounds. The annual Tyee Club competition has run since 1924. Other species include coho, pink salmon, halibut, and lingcod.
Is Campbell River worth visiting?
Absolutely! It's a perfect base for exploring northern Vancouver Island, with excellent restaurants, accommodations, and access to world-class outdoor adventures. It combines small-city amenities with pristine wilderness.
What is Elk Falls Provincial Park?
Elk Falls Provincial Park is a stunning natural area just minutes from downtown Campbell River featuring a dramatic 25-metre waterfall, suspension bridge, and beautiful hiking trails through old-growth forest.
Can I take a day trip to Quadra Island from Campbell River?
Yes, Quadra Island is just a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River. The island offers hiking, kayaking, Indigenous cultural experiences at the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre, and beautiful beaches.
What marine wildlife can I see in Campbell River?
Besides whales, you can see sea lions, seals, bald eagles, and diverse seabirds. Discovery Passage is famous for its rich marine ecosystem and strong tidal currents that attract abundant sea life.
Is Mount Washington accessible from Campbell River?
Yes, Mount Washington Alpine Resort is about 45 minutes from Campbell River. It's Vancouver Island's largest ski resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic trails in winter, plus hiking and mountain biking in summer.
