Best places for Hornby Island camping

Hornby Island in the Strait of Georgia is one of the Southern Gulf Islands and a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver for those looking for time outside in beautiful surroundings.

With its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and verdant forests, it’s no wonder that Hornby Island camping is a popular thing to do on Hornby Island. 

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hornby Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

I remember my first time camping on Hornby Island very clearly. My friends and I did some Tribune Bay campsite camping and it’s one of the island’s most picturesque beaches. 

As we sat around the campfire roasting marshmallows and telling stories, we were treated to a stunning display of stars in the clear night sky. 

The sound of the waves crashing on the shore lulled us to sleep, and we woke up to the sound of birds chirping and the sun rising over the water. It was a magical experience that I’ll never forget!

In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into Hornby Island camping and explore the different options available to you. Whether you prefer a more rustic experience or a glamping-style adventure, Hornby Island has something for everyone. 

Whether you’re looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy a fun-filled adventure with friends and family, Hornby Island camping is the perfect way to do it. 

5. Best Hornby Island Camping

1. Tribune Bay Campground: Best Camping on Hornby Island

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to set up camp on Hornby Island, look no further than Tribune Bay Campground. 

With a location that’s just a stone’s throw away from the popular Tribune Bay Provincial Park, Helliwell Park, and one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, this is the most convenient option for camping on Hornby Island.

While the sites at Tribune Bay Campground are fairly close together, they offer a range of amenities and facilities to make your stay comfortable. There are full washroom facilities with coin-operated hot showers, laundry facilities, and a busy playground for kids. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, which means you can explore the nearby hiking trails with your furry friend.

One of the major advantages of Tribune Bay Campground is its proximity to Ringside Market, a collection of shops, cafes, galleries, and more. It’s also close to a gas station, two restaurants, an ice cream shop, and several gift shops.

This means you won’t have to venture far to stock up on supplies, grab a bite to eat or find the perfect Canadian souvenir to take home.

During the summer months, Tribune Bay Campground can get pretty busy, with reports of noise and quiet time not being strictly enforced. However, with all the amenities and conveniences offered at this Hornby Island camping site, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular with visitors.

If you’re planning a trip to Hornby Island, I highly recommend making Tribune Bay Campground your home base.

• Price: From $35 per night for tents, while RV or tenting with electrified sites costs $48 per night. Additional fees apply for extra adults and children.
• Location: 5200 Shields Rd, conveniently situated near several shops, restaurants, and other amenities on Hornby Island.
• Website
• Number of sites: Over 130 sites

2. Bradsdadsland Campground

If you’re looking for a more secluded camping experience away from the popular Tribune Bay Provincial Park, then Bradsdadsland Campsite is a great option.

Located on the west coast of Hornby Island, Bradsdadsland offers breathtaking views of the Lambert Channel. 

Most of these Hornby Island campsites have a waterfront view, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset while relaxing in the Adirondack chairs placed along the water. 

This Hornby campground is family-oriented, and the hosts strictly enforce quiet hours after 11 pm to ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep.

Bradsdadsland offers 50 tent camping sites and sites for RVs up to 27 ft. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit, with some offering electric hookups. 

Shared facilities include clean flush toilets and washrooms, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and showers. There is also a general store on-site to pick up any essentials you might need during your stay.

There is also plenty at this campground to keep kids entertained. You’ll find a children’s playground, swings, a badminton net, and a sandbox. 

There are also many nearby Hornby Island attractions to explore, including beach access from the campground, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and nearby provincial parks such as Tribune Bay Provincial Park and Helliwell Provincial Park.

Bradsdadsland Campsite has a range of rates, depending on the season and site location. Prices range from $35 per night, with additional charges depending on the type of site and for extra people.

The campground is open year-round and is a great option for Hornby Island RV camping as well as tent camping in Hornby Island.

Here are the important details you need to know about Bradsdadsland Campsite:

• Number of sites: 50 tent camping sites and sites for RVs up to 27 ft
• Price: From $35
• Location: 2105 Shingle Spit Road, Hornby Island
• Website

3. Ford’s Cove Campground

If you’re looking for a quiet and eco-friendly camping experience on Hornby Island, Ford’s Cove is definitely worth considering. 

This Hornby Island campground is situated on the west side of the island, which means that you’ll get to enjoy stunning waterfront views and spectacular sunsets. What’s more, it’s the only camping area on the island that’s not within earshot of a road.

At Ford’s Cove, you’ll find 14 tent sites, one RV site, and one site for trailers. The sites are nicely separated by space and trees, providing you with privacy and a feeling of seclusion.

The campground is open all year round, and it’s just a couple of minutes’ walk to the beach. At low tide, the beach is an excellent spot for exploring a large collection of tide pools, which are perfect for both photos and exploration.

In addition to the beach, Ford’s Cove is only a 5-minute walk from Mount Geoffrey Provincial Park, where you’ll find some terrific hiking trails. And if you’re a fishing enthusiast or want to try kayaking, the campground is an ideal location. You can purchase a fishing license, and there’s also a nearby place where you can rent kayaks.

The facilities at Ford’s Cove are well-maintained and include indoor flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, outdoor sinks, and potable water. Campfires are allowed as long as there is no island fire ban in place. There’s also a small store where you can purchase essentials and even some fresh pizzas in the summer.

Fords Cove is also environmentally conscious, using a wind generator to power the facilities. This means that you can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about your impact on the environment.

The campground allows campfires as long as there is no island fire ban in place. This means that you can sit around the fire at night and enjoy the beautiful surroundings with family and friends.

• Prices: From $30 – $50 depending on the season, number of campers and camping style
• Location: 10835 Central Rd
• Website
• Sites: 14 tent sites, 1 RV site, and 1 site for trailers

4. Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre campsite

For families looking for a unique Hornby camping experience, Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre Campsite is a great place for camping on Hornby Island.

Located in the stunning Tribune Bay Provincial Park, this campground offers adventure camping for families during the summer months. 

Families can book a 2-4 night stay and for each night you stay, you and your family get to participate in one of their amazing outdoor adventure programs. 

Some of the activities include High Ropes, Leap of Faith, Giant’s Ladder, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, and Guided Hikes.

The campground has simple facilities, such as a cook shelter, pit toilets, and beach access to Tribune Bay. However, it does not have hookups and does not accommodate RVs. Nonetheless, it is one of the most family-friendly camping options on Hornby Island.

Nearby, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Tribune Bay Provincial Park and spend time relaxing on the white sandy shores of Tribune Bay Beach. Helliwell Provincial Park is close by too, as well as Ringside Market for restaurants, cafes, and shops.

• Price: Rates start at $60 per adult per night and $39 for those aged 5-15
• Location: 6050 St Johns Pt Road, Hornby Island BC
• Website

Glamping on Hornby Island

Glamping is a form of camping that offers a more luxurious and comfortable experience than traditional camping. 

It typically involves staying in fully furnished tents, yurts, or cabins that come equipped with amenities like comfortable beds, heating or air conditioning, and even private bathrooms. 

You can find some great glamping on Hornby Island. So, if you’re someone who wants to experience the outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of home, check out these Hornby Island glamping sites.

5. Fossil Beach Hornby Island glamping

If you’re looking for a unique camping experience, Fossil Beach on Hornby Island might just be the place for you. 

With its waterfront glamping site, this camping ground offers modern, fully furnished, solar-lighted tents that don’t require any assembly or setup on your part. 

Each tent has a beautiful waterfront location with ocean views from the door, and a private deck, chairs, and a fire pit. Some tents are designed for two people, while others can fit a couple of kids as well.

Fossil Beach offers a private beach, a century-old orchard, a cider shop (where you can buy or just sample), and some resident cows too!

The campground opens for the summer starting in mid-May, and tents go quickly, so it’s best to book online and early. 

There are seven sites available, each of different sizes and locations. The prices are based on double occupancy, with an additional charge of $40 per person for each extra guest.

In addition to the comfortable and unique tents, Fossil Beach offers some fantastic facilities, including private washrooms and showers in the cider house and a communal cookhouse for shared meals. 

Paddleboards are available for guests to use during their stay, and hammocks are dotted around the farm for relaxing with a good book.

The farm also has its own cider house and tap room, where you can sample some cider made on the same farm where you’re staying. During the summer there are live music events that are a must-attend!

• Price: from $266
• Location: 750 Savoie Road on Hornby Island, British Columbia
• Website

Backcountry camping on Hornby Island

Hornby Island is a popular destination for camping enthusiasts in the Gulf Islands of BC.

While the island offers many camping opportunities, backcountry camping is not allowed due to conservation and safety concerns. This means there is no free camping on Hornby Island.

Rangers and conservation officers frequently patrol the island to enforce this rule, and anyone found violating it can face significant fines.

Top tips for camping on Hornby Island

• Book your camping spot early: Hornby Island camping reservations are highly recommended. It’s a popular summer destination and accommodation options are limited, so it’s important to reserve your spot as early as possible. This is especially true for the popular Fossil Beach campground, which fills up quickly due to its unique glamping tents and waterfront location.
• Practice Leave No Trace Principle: Hornby Island residents place a high value on environmental sustainability and waste disposal facilities are limited. Make sure to take any non-reusable or non-recyclable items with you when you leave the island to be disposed of properly. There is also no dumping station for RVs on the island.
• Check Hornby Island ferry schedules: Ferry schedules between Hornby Island and the mainland change with the seasons, so it’s important to have the latest information to avoid missing your ride. The last ferry from Hornby Island to Denman Island usually leaves at 6 pm, so plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Hornby Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, eagles, and seals. Make sure to secure your food and garbage to avoid attracting these animals to your campsite. It’s also important to give wildlife their space and not disturb their natural habitats.
• Explore the island’s natural beauty: Hornby Island is known for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and unique geological formations. Make sure to take advantage of the island’s natural beauty and go for a hike or visit some of the island’s many parks and nature reserves.
• Respect the local community: Hornby Island has a small, tight-knit community of residents who take pride in their island and its unique culture. Make sure to respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of noise levels and other factors that could disrupt the peaceful island atmosphere.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a fun and enjoyable camping experience on Hornby Island, while also being respectful of the island’s environment and the local community.

Other accommodations on Hornby Island 

Hornby Island has limited hotel options, so it’s recommended to book a self-catered place like a VRBO or Airbnb. Some of the best options include:

• Hornby Island Cottage with waterfront access: This architecturally designed home features two cosy bedrooms, a well-appointed bath, and breathtaking westerly views. The cottage is surrounded by lush gardens that make for a peaceful and tranquil escape. The cottage offers easy access to a private beach where you can explore tidal pools or soak up the sun.
• Hornby Island Cabin: This cosy cabin offers a studio-style layout with a small kitchen and bathroom, as well as a large deck and private yard. It’s perfect for families and provides easy access to a virtually private beach that is great for exploring tidal pools or enjoying the peaceful westerly views.
• Barn Suite on Hornby Island: The Barn Suite is located on the picturesque Little Tribune Bay, next to a private par-3 golf course. It offers luxurious furnishings and thoughtful amenities, including a lofty king-size bed with quality linens, an open-plan living-dining area, and a fully equipped kitchenette. The suite also boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape through large windows.

5 Best things to do on Hornby Island 

Here are five of the best things to do on Hornby Island, BC. For a more extensive guide check out this list of over 30 things to do on Hornby Island.

• Helliwell Provincial Park: This beautiful park features a network of hiking trails, many of which offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline, forests, and mountains.
• Tribune Bay: One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Tribune Bay is known for its warm waters and soft white sand. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
• Hornby Island Farmers’ Market: Held on Saturdays from May to September, the Hornby Island Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample local produce, crafts, and food. You can also meet local artisans and learn more about the island’s culture and history.
• Mount Geoffrey Regional Nature Park: With over 200 hectares of forested land, Mount Geoffrey Regional Nature Park is a great place to explore the island’s natural beauty. Hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints and offer the chance to spot local wildlife.
• Discover Hornby Island Art: This self-guided tour takes you through the island’s creative community, where you can visit artists’ studios, galleries, and workshops. You’ll find everything from pottery to jewellery to painting.

How to get to Hornby Island

Hornby Island is a beautiful destination off the east coast of Vancouver Island in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia. Although it requires two ferries to get there, the journey is worth it. Here’s how to get to Hornby Island from different locations.

Hornby Island from Vancouver Island

To reach Hornby Island from Vancouver Island, take Highway 19 to Buckley Bay. From there, take the 10-minute ferry to Denman Island. Remember to mention that you’re going to Hornby Island when you buy your ticket. 

Check the ferry schedule for Hornby Island and prices on BCFerries.com.

After arriving on Denman Island, it’s a 15-minute drive to Gravelly Bay to take your last ferry to Hornby Island, which takes about 10 minutes.

 Keep in mind that the posted times on the schedule aren’t always accurate because the ferry runs on “shuttle mode,” making as many trips as possible to get people across.

In summer, the ferries run roughly hourly throughout the day, and the ferry times are specifically planned to coordinate well with the additional ferry from Denman Island to Hornby Island.

Hornby Island from Vancouver

To get to Hornby Island from Vancouver, take the 1-hour 40-minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay in Nanaimo. 

I highly recommend making ferry reservations for this route, especially during the summer months and on weekends. 

You can make reservations online at BCFerries.com. 

After arriving at Departure Bay in Nanaimo, follow the same steps mentioned above.

Flights to Hornby Island

If you prefer to fly, you can take a flight to Comox Airport (YQQ) and then take the ferry from Vancouver Island to Hornby Island via Denman Island. 

It’s also possible to arrive directly on Hornby Island at Ford Cove by floatplane. Gulf Island Seaplanes operates flights once or twice per day, depending on the day and the season, between Vancouver Harbour and Hornby Island.

The cost of the trip varies depending on the mode of transportation and the number of passengers. It’s a good idea to check the schedules and ferry prices online at BCFerries.com before embarking on your journey.

FAQS about camping on Hornby Island

Final thoughts on camping Hornby Island

Hornby Island in British Columbia is a popular destination for camping and outdoor activities. 

Tribune Bay Provincial Park is one of the most popular campsites on the island, located near the beautiful Tribune Bay beach with stunning views of the Salish Sea. You can also explore nearby Helliwell Provincial Park, which offers scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the coast.

If you’re looking for more things to do on other Gulf Islands near Vancouver, be sure to check out this guide to the best things to do on Salt Spring Island as well as this Salt Spring accommodation guide. I’ve also got an itinerary for Galiano Island, what to do on Gabriola Island, and fun things to do on Pender Island as well as Pender Island Camping and a guide to camping in Powell River on the Sunshine Coast BC.

Last Updated on September 7, 2023 by Hannah