A charming coastal gem with an abundance of natural beauty, Campbell River boasts engaging art galleries and history museums. Learn about the city’s maritime past at heritage centers and a restored ship or immerse yourself in the outdoors at a beachfront park and scenic hiking trails or on whale-watching excursions.

Things to do

Walk along the Discovery Fishing Pier to capture views of Quadra Island and the Discovery Passage, then stop to admire local fishermen reeling in the day’s catch. If you’re an art enthusiast, browse the contemporary art at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Learn about River Campbell’s rich fishing history at the Maritime Heritage Centre, where you can hop aboard a restored table seiner and marvel at maritime artifacts. Afterward, dive deep into the early days of recreational and commercial fishing at Campbell River Museum.

Walk along the Rotary Sea Walk to Rotary Beach Park, then photograph Big Rock’s colorful inscriptions. Next, visit the Quinsam River Salmon Hatchery to step onto a glass floor covering a recreation of native aquatic species.

If you visit Campbell River from April to October you can go on whale-watching excursions. Alternatively, snorkel in the region’s river pools filled with salmon from July to September. Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park at any time of year to trek its six kilometers of old growth forest trails and swimming suspension bridge.

Getting around

Campbell River is a two-hour drive from Nanaimo or 3.5 hours from Victoria, while Vancouver International Airport is four hours away. Local buses are available in the city center, but a car is ideal for reaching attractions.