Campbell River is a year-round destination. We are lucky that many of our activities can be enjoyed throughout the year thanks to our temperate climate, while others may be available most of the year but are best enjoyed in certain seasons. There is no perfect time, although summer certainly tends to be our busiest month due to the opening of additional seasonal eateries and activities, and the (usually) sunny and warm weather. Fall is another popular time to visit due to the increase in wildlife.
If you’re excited about the prospect of visiting Campbell River and taking in our scenic surroundings, trying your hand at a new activity, or having an adventure with family and friends, these are the ways to make the best of your trip to Campbell River in 2024.
What to Do in Campbell River in Spring
Spring brings the beginning of the snow melt, fewer storms, and an abundance of mushrooms, birdlife, and new buds. It’s a fantastic time to enjoy our trails at a quieter time of year, whether you’re running, hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, or bird watching. Snorkellers and cold water divers make the most of clear conditions, while sailors enjoy the more predictable, but still windy, conditions. Prepared water enthusiasts also start to enjoy kayaking and boating excursions in the spring sunshine. Spring is also a wonderful time for an airplane or helicopter flightseeing tour in favourable conditions while snow still dusts our surrounding mountain peaks.
What to Do in Campbell River in Summer
Our surrounding lakes come alive in the summer with swimmers, canoes, and SUPs, while the welcoming shoreline plays host to families and picnickers. As the rocks dry out, climbers take to local crags including day trips to neighbouring Quadra Island. Hikers gain access to higher elevations and enjoy dry camping weather. Popular sports best enjoyed in the dry season include mountain biking, archery, disc golf, skateboarding, and golf at one of our two courses.
Outside of sports, our food scene thrives with many patios, farm stands, and seasonal storefronts opening, and the farmer’s market showcasing local producers downtown. A variety of festival-style and live music events also take place in Spirit Square and nearby through the summer.
Summer also really kicks off wildlife and culture tour season—some whales start appearing as early as May, but June through Fall is the best time to go wildlife watching.
What to Do in Campbell River in the Fall
Fall is for enjoying some of our most popular summer activities, like hiking and camping, with less heat (and fewer bugs). There is often a fire ban in late summer, and Fall welcomes the first waves of rain, campfires, and beach fires at sunset. The salmon run is a huge draw whether you’re snorkelling in the Campbell River, heading to the hatchery, watching for wildlife, or fishing. The salmon run is also the best time of the year for Grizzly Bear tours which depart from Campbell River and take you to remote inlets in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound. Guided hunting and foraging trips are also popular.
What to Do in Campbell River in Winter
Our indoor activities come to life in winter: bowling, indoor climbing, taking a class at one of our yoga and fitness studios, ice hockey, and ice skating. Catch a game, or head to one of our theatres to catch film festivals, locally produced plays, and touring musicians. In peak storm season, you might just catch sight of a rare phenomenon on our east coast: local surfers. Be mindful if you’re heading out that you understand the spots, currents, tides, and etiquette; it’s best to go with a guide. If you’re keen to reclaim the winter and stay outdoors year-round, we’re a wonderful jumping-off point for visiting Mt Cain and Mt Washington, where you can enjoy alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. At a lower elevation, many of our trails remain used by hikers, bikers, and runners.
Visit our adventurous and artistic community any time of year. We look forward to welcoming you.
