The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Within just a few hours’ drive from the city, you can find yourself immersed in pristine wilderness – whether you're an overlander seeking a peaceful pull-in spot or a hiker chasing alpine lakes framed by snow-capped peaks. Below are some of the top backcountry and recreation sites, all easily accessible from Vancouver.
Cogburn Beach Recreation Site
Located along the shores of Harrison Lake, this rustic site features a gravel beach, picnic tables, and pit toilets. It’s one of several recreation spots in the area, each offering its own charm.
Flatiron
A rewarding 5.5 km (3.4 mi) hike with an elevation gain of 800 m (2,625 ft) leads to a serene alpine lake. The trailhead starts at the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area – perfect for those craving a scenic challenge.
Garibaldi Lake
This stunning alpine lake is a popular summer destination, so aim for mid-week visits. Campgrounds at Garibaldi Lake and Taylor Meadows offer bear hangs, kitchen shelters, water, and washrooms – all set against jaw-dropping scenery.
Klein Lake Recreation Site
Tucked away on the Sunshine Coast via North Lake FSR, Klein Lake is a peaceful retreat with cutthroat trout fishing, picnic tables, and pit toilets.
Levette Lake Recreation Site
Nine forested campsites await at this beautiful lake near Squamish. Access requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Bear activity is common – use the bear-proof caches provided.
Lewis Lake Recreation Site
A quiet spot near Lang Bay, reached via Goat Lake Main. This site offers a couple of campsites, picnic tables, pit toilets, and a boat launch.
Lindeman Lake
Just off Chilliwack Lake Road, a short 2 km (1.2 mi) hike with a 220 m (720 ft) elevation gain leads to a crystal-clear lake. Amenities include tent pads, outhouses, and bear caches.
Molson Memorial Recreation Site
Accessible via Squamish Valley Road, this remote site sits beside the Peaches and Cream waterfall. Nearby, Squamish-Elaho, Squamish Riverside, and High Falls Recreation Sites offer riverside camping. Be cautious – heavy rain can cause flooding and washouts.
Murphy Lakes West Recreation Site
With just five campsites, this tranquil lake is ideal for small campers. Access is via logging roads west of Tulameen.
Rogers Creek Recreation Site
Located on Highway 99 between Pemberton and Lillooet, this scenic site features campsites along the creek, picnic tables, and fire pits. Nearby sites like Gott Creek and Cinnamon offer forested alternatives.
Tikwalus Heritage Trail
A 6 km (3.7 mi) loop off Highway 1 near Alexandra Bridge Provincial Park climbs 800 m (2,625 ft) to a campsite with sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon. Facilities include a bear cache and outhouse – bring your own water.
Twenty Mile Bay
On the west side of Harrison Lake, this site offers 59 campsites along a 1 km stretch of beach, plus a boat launch and pit toilets.
Upper Joffre Lake
A 4.5 km (2.8 mi) hike from Highway 99 passes Lower and Middle Joffre Lakes before reaching the campground at Upper Joffre Lake. With 26 tent pads, a urine diversion toilet, and bear-proof storage, it’s a breathtaking alpine escape.
Watersprite Lake
This turquoise lake is reached via an 8.5 km hike with a 660 m (2,165 ft) elevation gain. From Squamish, it’s a 20+ km drive up Mamquam and Skookum FSRs – high-clearance 4WD required.
Wedgemount Lake
Often used as a basecamp for Wedge Mountain, this alpine lake is a destination in itself. From Wedge Creek FSR off Highway 99, expect a steep 6 km (3.7 mi) hike gaining 1,125 m (3,690 ft). Water and washrooms are available.
This is just a sampling of the incredible backcountry destinations in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region. Whether you're exploring forest service roads or hiking into alpine basins, there's always a new adventure waiting – often with the luxury of solitude.
Pro Tips for Wild Camping in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Region
Be Self-Contained
Many recreation sites and backcountry campsites have limited or no amenities. Bring your own water, waste disposal system, and cooking gear. Pack out everything you pack in – leave no trace.
Check Site Conditions Ahead of Time
Seasonal closures, road washouts, and active logging can affect access. Use updated resources like BC Parks, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, or the BRMB Maps app to confirm road and trail conditions before heading out.
Respect Fire Regulations
Fire bans are common during dry spells. Always check current fire restrictions and use designated fire rings when permitted. A portable stove is your safest bet for cooking in remote areas.
Arrive Early, Especially on Weekends
Most free campsites are first-come, first-served. Arriving early – especially at popular lakes and trailheads – gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
Expect the Unexpected
Locked gates, rough forestry roads, and sudden weather shifts are part of the adventure. Carry a paper map, have a backup plan, and let someone know your route and return time.
Practice Leave No Trace
Respect the wilderness and fellow campers. Stay on established trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave your site cleaner than you found it.
Use BRMB Tools to Plan Smarter
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Backroad Mapbook and BRMB Maps app are essential for finding hidden campsites, tracking your route, and staying safe in remote terrain.
Final Word
The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is packed with wild camping opportunities – from alpine lakes to riverside hideouts and forested recreation sites. Whether you're rolling in a rooftop tent, a rugged 4x4, or hiking in with just a pack, there’s a remote escape waiting for you.
Share your adventures with #BRMBLIFE and help others discover the magic of off-grid camping in BC.
Resources for Planning
For detailed maps and trip planning tools, check out Backroad Mapbooks. Grab the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains BC Mapbook, download GPS maps, or use the BRMB Maps app for iOS and Android.
Share Your Adventures
Don’t forget to share your adventures at brmbmaps.com or on social using
#BRMBLIFE.
