The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Campbell River, Vancouver Island

We are a full time, year-round fishing charter company striving to give you the best in the industry. We offer both Saltwater and Freshwater fishing trips 12 months of the year targeting Salmon, Steelhead, Trout and Bottom fish. We strive to make your visit to Campbell River the best trip ever, by offering fun and relaxing fishing trips

A locally and family owned tour company located in Campbell River, British Columbia. See Killer Whales (Orcas), Dolphins, Humpback Whales Eagles, Black Bears and other Marine Wildlife in their natural environment on our Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Journeys. In late summer and early fall we offer Grizzly Bear Journeys. On our Grizzly Bear Journey in Campbell River, we travel aboard our high-speed, covered vessel to Toba Inlet in search of Grizzly Bears. You will see pristine river valleys which are home to these magnificent animals. Upon arrival we will board a tour bus and drive to specially designed bear viewing platforms and some open viewing areas, which is situated along the river and ideal for viewing the mighty grizzlies. Here you’ll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the autumn ritual of bears feasting on spawning salmon in Canada´s true wilderness. Observation platforms offer great views and security so you can have a look into the lives of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Travel through some of the worlds strongest Ocean Rapids and learn a little about the local First Nations history and culture as well. Enjoy breathtaking Nature viewing boat tours throughout the Discovery Passage, Johnstone Strait and Mainland Inlet areas. We have a 27 foot covered vessel with a open viewing deck and onboard washroom and heater. Our experienced and locally born Transport Canada certified guides have a minimum 40 years experience working and traveling within these waters. We look forward in creating long lasting memories for you and your families. Our floating office is located at the Discovery Harbour Marina (G Dock)in Campbell River. Please use the South ramp. "A Spectacular Adventure Awaits!" CAMPBELL RIVER's longest running Whale Watching and Grizzly Bear tour company. Established in 2000.

We are experience makers. Born out of a love for the outdoors and the sense of freedom that cycling and paddling brings, our boutique bicycle and kayak tours are dedicated to helping people connect with the locals, the culinary experiences, and the hidden secrets that make the Comox Valley, Campbell River, and the Discovery Islands so spectacular. A feast for the senses, our Joy Rides help people find JOY in their journey through boutique day, multi-day, guided and self-guided experiences.

Holly Hill Farm is an interactive and vast petting farm located in the heart of Campbell River, on Canada’s beautiful Vancouver Island. The winner of Campbell River’s ‘Best New Business’ Award, Holly Hill Farm is open to the public every Sunday from 10-2:00 (mid-March through October). Guests are invited to explore and immerse themselves in a free-ranging barnyard: holding chickens, snuggling baby bunnies, brushing mini goats, and hand feeding a friendly alpaca and horse. Truly a hands-on experience like no other, visitors can scratch a pot belly pig’s belly and, on lucky occasions, witness the birth of a newborn sheep or goat! Developing into a cultural and agricultural hub of Campbell River, Holly Hill Farm also hosts community events, birthday parties, summer camps, and educational after-school programs. The farm is also a supplier of healthy free-range meats, eggs, and fibre raised ethically and naturally.

Through numerous exhibits and an extensive research library visitors can learn the history of northern Vancouver Island.

The Campbell River Maritime Heritage Centre is home to the historic BCP45 seine fishing boat. The boat was pictured on the Canadian five dollar bill from 1972 to 1986. She was brought to the centre in 2002 and was restored on site by a crew of volunteers. Today visitors can go aboard the BCP45 and explore the galley, bunks, engine room, the head(bathroom) and wheelhouse. In addition to the BCP45 the centre boasts a large collection of marine related artifacts ranging from vintage outboard motors, weapons, navy paraphernalia and navigational instruments to the Margaret M a sailboat built by Arthur Barnes a blind one armed man and so much more. There are also activities for kids, in addition to exploring the boat children can learn to tie nautical knots at the rope board and how to spell their name in flag language. Guided tours are offered from 12-4 and are included with the price of admission. The Maritime Heritage centre is self-funded and support themselves through rentals of various rooms. The centre is also home to the Campbell River Genealogy society. After visiting the Maritime Heritage Centre, many guests also like to take advantage of the free parking and visit the nearby aquarium, the pier and downtown Campbell River.

Open during the COVID-19 pandemic with special precautions. The Discovery Passage Aquarium offers fun and unique hands-on educational experiences for people of all ages. Come to see, touch and feel our incredible local marine species and habitats and discover the diverse marine life of Discovery Passage and Islands. The Aquarium is open from spring until fall each year. Specimens from representative local species are collected from the marine environment in the spring and returned to the area of collection at the end of the season.

A popular destination family campground on Vancouver Island! Explore the incredible camping, hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities this region has to offer. Be sure to check out the new suspension bridge! Park visitors to Elk Falls will enjoy the extensive forest trail network and the hiking and biking opportunities available. Impressive waterfalls serve as a beautiful backdrop while hiking through coastal forests. Minutes from the main campground, visitors can explore the impressive new suspension bridge. Access to the bridge can be found off the Canyon View Trail. Adventurous park users will be awe-struck at the views found from this newly-built attraction! Firewood is available for sale from the Park Operator. Reservations are recommended during peak season, however last-minute campers may be able to find a spot in July and August. Reservations for this park are accepted for arrival dates from mid-May – Labour Day. Elk Falls is open year-round (Winter Camping $11/night).

Campbell River is a city nestled in nature, surrounded by the wild, with all the comforts of home. Let us help you discover BC’s iconic wildlife, gather with friends and family, and experience how the nature here can transform us all. Follow #DiscoverCampbellRiver to get inspired by stories from real travellers, and let us know how we can help you plan your journey.