Are You Allowed to Camp Anywhere in BC?

British Columbia is home to some of the most breathtaking wilderness in Canada—from rugged mountain peaks and alpine lakes to coastal rainforests and sprawling backcountry. It's no surprise that camping is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike. But a common question we hear at Pinnacle Lifestyles is:"Are you allowed to camp anywhere in BC?"

The short answer is: no, not everywhere.While BC offers vast opportunities for camping, there are rules and regulations you need to follow to camp legally and respectfully.

Types of Land in BC and Camping Rules

To understand where you can and can’t camp in BC, it helps to know the types of land ownership and jurisdiction:

1. Crown Land (Public Land) – Usually Allowed with Conditions

Roughly 94% of land in BC is Crown land, meaning it’s publicly owned and managed by the province.

You can usually camp for free on Crown land, but:

• You must follow Leave No Trace principles.

• Stays are limited to 14 consecutive days in one location.

• No permanent structures are allowed.

• Some areas may be seasonally closed or require a Recreation Site permit.

Exceptions:

• Some Crown land is leased or designated for resource use or cultural significance (e.g., logging, mining, Indigenous land).

• Always check local postings or BC Recreation Sites and Trails official site.

2. BC Provincial Parks – Designated Campsites Only

BC has over 1,000 provincial parks, and many are ideal for tenting, RVing, and backcountry camping.

You cannot camp just anywhere in a provincial park. You must use:

• Designated campgrounds (reservable or first-come-first-served).

• Backcountry camping zones where permitted (often requires a permit or registration).

3. Private Property – Permission Required

Camping on private land without permission is illegal and considered trespassing.

Always ask the landowner before setting up camp. Do not assume remote areas are public just because they’re not fenced or signed.

4. Municipal Parks & Urban Areas – Usually Not Allowed

Most city parks and urban green spaces prohibit overnight camping unless otherwise posted.

Where You Can Camp in BC – Legal and Scenic Options

At Pinnacle Lifestyles, we recommend safe, legal, and unforgettable camping experiences across BC, including:

• Recreation Sites (Rec Sites) – Affordable, rustic, and often free.

• Provincial Parks – Great amenities, scenic views, and trail access.

• Private Campgrounds & Resorts – More amenities, hot showers, and family-friendly settings.

• Wilderness Resorts like Pinnacle Lifestyles – Stay close to nature with access to curated amenities and private lakefront or mountain locations.

Responsible Camping: Tips for a Safe Outdoor Experience

• Pack out all trash and waste.

• Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

• Follow fire bans and use designated fire rings.

• Be aware of local Indigenous lands and always respect signage and cultural sites.

Final Thoughts

So, are you allowed to camp anywhere in BC?Not exactly—but with the right knowledge, you can find legal, breathtaking places to pitch your tent or park your RV. From Crown land to private wilderness resorts like Pinnacle Lifestyles, BC has something for every kind of camper.

Ready for Your Next Outdoor Getaway? Discover luxury wilderness camping, private retreats, and unforgettable views with Pinnacle Lifestyles. Visit www.pinnaclelifestyles.ca to explore our destinations and book your stay today.