5 Hidden Gem Campgrounds Near Chilliwack that You Won't Want to Miss!

Summer Isn’t Over Yet -- Spend Your Time Right at These Top-Notch BC Campgrounds

We get it; folks that have to go through Chilliwack winters like to make the most out of the warmer months! To save you from wasting your precious weekends at scummy campgrounds, our team here at O’Connor RV has gathered our favourite places to get back to nature within close driving range of the Fraser Valley Region. Read on to find out which camping spots you need to add to your must-visit list.

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

From mountain peaks to crystal clear lakes, Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park has it all. The perfect spot for all kinds of summer fun, this park is only 50 minutes out of town nestled in the Chilliwack River Valley. An on-site playground makes for even more good times for the kiddos, while die-hard adventure families can take a try at wilderness living from one of the backcountry campsites located at the smaller surrounding lakes.

Park regular, Robyn Rayner, states: 

“It's absolutely so stunning here, people are friendly a d helpful when your camping here and the beach is sandy, and the water is so clean you can see the bottom from sitting on the beach all the way into the deeper parts. The water is a bit chilly but very refreshing, our family had a great camping experience here and we come up to the day-use all the time when we want to hit the beach for the day. Anyone will love it here and very family-friendly”

Cultus Lake Thousand Trails RV Resort

For an RV experience a little closer to civilization, be sure to visit Cultus Lake -- where amenities are abundant and fun is everywhere. Walking distance from ice cream, a waterpark and all kinds of restaurants, this RV Resort is the perfect place to stay while exploring the town of Cultus Lake, located just 20 minutes south of Chilliwack down Vedder Road. Inside the park, you’re family will have everything they need -- from laundry machines to a library, swimming pools to satellite TV.

“Clean, always friendly staff. Great sized lots that offer a decent amount of privacy and quietness. In the valley of a mountain range with a great river. Highly recommend if you are looking for a slightly of the beaten track experience but still close enough to get snacks, food and there is a great beach and lake right up the road.”

- Drew Smith (Local Guide)

Tamihi Creek Recreation Site

Get a true in-the-woods experience at Tamihi Creek, where 116 campsites sit under the tall trees of the Liumchen Forest a mere 23 minutes from the heart of Chilliwack. If your family loves ATVing, this is the place to go, with trails for all levels of rider and even a kids’ riding and training bowl -- perfect for teaching mini 4-wheel and dirtbike enthusiasts! The nearby Chilliwack River also provides the perfect opportunity to get some fishing in on your family vacation, as well. 

Recent visitor Alison Eastman had this to say about Tamihi Creek:

“Great place to go if you love the sound of the river and you have toys to play within the offroading areas!  Lovely campsite hosts! Well kept campsite with a small playground for the kids and a little field to enjoy a game of frisbee or soccer. We will be returning!” 

Maple Bay Campgrounds at Cultus Lake Provincial Park

The best place to enjoy Cultus Lake -- Maple Bay Campgrounds is right on the water, giving you great access to boating, water-skiing, windsurfing and paddleboarding. Bring the tackle box along, too, as the lake offers plenty of spots to cast a line out and try your luck. You’ll find this jewel of a campground 26 minutes south of Chilliwack at the bottom-most section of Cultus Lake. While staying here, please remember that the area has a high bear population, so camp smart and store your food properly!

“My family and I love coming here. It's our annual camping trip. I love the size of the camping lots. The park is always so clean and I love that the bathrooms have showers. 

I also like that if there is a fire ban on, we are allowed propane fires to help keep us warm. The lake is so close and the kids have a great time. Will keep returning as often as possible.”

- Casey Quesnelle, Local Guide

Emory Creek Provincial Park

Add some history to your camping trip and head 43 minutes northeast just past the town of Hope on Highway 1. Here, you’ll find Emory Creek Provincial Park -- a camp that started more than 150 years ago! But don’t worry, this establishment now features paved roads and flush toilets, so you won’t have to rough it too much. The area is perfect for biking, fishing and hiking right along the Fraser River.

One traveller notes:

“This is one of Hope’s hidden treasures! Quiet, safe and clean. This is my 4th time here and with the nature trails, I never get bored. Store, gas station and 2 restaurants close by and both serve up great food. The store across the highway has a selection of booze and snacks. Also unique gifts and ice cream. One of my favourite places!”