Part of BC’s spectacular and biodiverse coastal temperate rainforest landscape, Campbell River gets its fair share of rain. The first rains after a long summer are always welcomed, particularly by local farms and mountain bikers who enjoy the stick that a bit of mud provides over the dustiness of dry, hot trails. November tends to be Campbell River’s rainiest month, with December and January second.
No matter whether you’re fully prepared with the right gear to get outside, or prefer to seek cozy indoor excursions, Campbell River has plenty to do if your visit includes some wet weather.
Travellers to Campbell River frequently come for our impeccable access to nature experiences, but there’s plenty to explore indoors on a rainy day. For the history buffs or culturally curious, the Museum at Campbell River is the perfect place to discover our region’s human history. From the Indigenous peoples who have lived here since time immemorial to the arrival of pioneer settlers and expansion of industry, there’s plenty to spark intrigue in all ages. Use this new-found knowledge as a jumping-off point for taking in the interpretive signs and historic locations around town with an umbrella afterward.
Marine enthusiasts will want to park up between Discovery Pier and the Maritime Heritage Centre to get an authentic feel of Campbell River’s rich maritime community both past and present. Inside the Centre, take in the historic Seine Fishing Vessel BCP 45 and tour the exhibits. Head out along the Pier using the covered areas to pause between the rain and look out to see as sailing boats, fishing boats, and recreational vessels traverse the coastline alongside marine mammals and soaring seabirds.
Right downtown, the non-profit Campbell River Art Gallery is a bright welcoming space that hosts rotating exhibitions, events, and thematic workshops, along with a well-curated gift shop of local artisans. Across the street, the Tidemark Theatre’s eye-catching bright pink building sparks joy on an overcast day. The venue hosts everything from touring musicians and iconic cover bands to dance recitals, film festivals, and plays. Grab a bite and a drink at one of our delicious independent restaurants—from pizza at Session Taproom and Kitchen to vibrant Vietnamese at Nhau—beforehand to enjoy dinner and a show Campbell River-style.
Getting Into Nature No Matter the Weather
More of a brave-the-rain type of person? A little bit of water keeps our forests lush and our forest canopy provides a little extra cover from the wet weather, with the tree-lined trails of Beaver Lodge Forest Lands proving particularly popular. Snowden Demonstration Forest is also well-covered and remains a favourite with trail runners and mountain bikers year-round. The trails can be a little more muddy and slippery in sections for walkers here, particularly along the rocky bluffs, so sturdy shoes with grip are recommended.
When dressed appropriately for the weather, the 8 KM Rotary Seawalk provides a tranquil spot to take in the mystical view of Quadra Island shrouded by mist. Walk the full length or, if you’ve remembered your waterproof trousers, seat yourself at one of the benches or Adirondack chairs and listen to the calming lap of the waves on the shoreline.
Rainy days can also be enjoyed in part from cozy accommodations here in Campbell River. Staying downtown or along South Island Hwy 19A will offer views of the passage and the soothing sounds of waves lapping the shoreline. More inland accommodations will often offer contemplative views of forests or the Campbell River.
