Thinking about heading out on a road trip to see more of Canada? Why not plan an RV trip for a long weekend break or a week-long getaway?
The RV lifestyle is not just meant for the rugged, outdoorsy types. It’s a completely doable travel option for city dwellers who want to discover the wilderness that lies within their own regions and beyond. Out here in Western Canada, there’s a lot of natural beauty to discover, including ocean horizons, remote forests, limitless recreational activities, and breathtaking scenic views.
Whether you're a seasoned camper or want to give that 4-wheel drive a spin, renting a recreational vehicle gives you an incredible sense of freedom with the flexibility to choose where you go, for how long and at what cost.
Here are some must-see RV trip destinations on both sides of the Rockies in British Columbia and Alberta so you can experience the Gift of Canada this summer.
RV destinations in B.C.
Located about a 40 minute drive from Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway is Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Nestled along the eastern shore of Howe Sound, Porteau Cove features views of the sea and mountains beyond, along with pebbly beaches, sparkling waters, and even an old sunken ship that attracts plenty of marine life. As a waterfront camping spot, Porteau Cove is bound to make first-time campers fall in love with the outdoor lifestyle. For even more adventure, we suggest driving a little further up the highway to explore epic hikes in Squamish and Whistler.
The Similkameen Valley in B.C.’s southern interior is another RV destination to add to your must-see map. Extending from Osoyoos to Princeton, this valley region features orchards, wineries, and fresh fruit stands to satisfy your tastes for fresh food and fine wines, along with lots of wide open spaces to hike, bike and play. With your RV, experience camping alongside lakes or rivers underneath a bed of stars at one of the many designated RV parks and campsites available in this region.
Those looking for a splash to cool down this summer can travel to Wells Grey Provincial Park in Clearwater to experience the most breathtaking waterfalls. Known as the land of waterfalls, you can hike to and see over 40 waterfalls — including Helmcken Falls, Canada’s 4th highest waterfall at over 140 metres — within the waterfall park. Plus, there are many scenic spots to stop off for a night of RV camping through Wells Gray and Clearwater.
Right in the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park is a perfect place to explore the wild. From the iconic turquoise-coloured waters of Emerald Lake to the 14 km Iceline Trail of stunning glacier views, you’ll be surrounded by the awe and wonder of this vast area. With experiences like frontcountry camping in the forest alongside Kicking Horse River, there are multiple RV campsites to choose from in Yoho National Park.
RV destinations in Alberta
On the Alberta side of the Rockies is Jasper National Park, the gentle giant of the majestic mountain gems, and one of Canada’s largest national parks.
The surrounding area features some of the most popular trails in Canada, where you can explore turquoise waters, waterfalls, glaciers and the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. If you’re lucky, you may even spot caribou, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and other spectacular wildlife out in their natural habitats. While in Jasper, be sure to take your RV on a beautiful drive along the Icefields Parkway, and allow the ancient glaciers, clear mountain lakes, and towering pines to mesmerize you.
If you continue venturing east,you’ll reach the outwardly landscapes known as Drumheller, making up the Canadian Badlands. A paradise for nature lovers, outdoor photographers, and budding archaeologists, you can wander where the dinosaurs once were and gaze at breathtaking canyons and sandstone rock formations. Nearby RV campsites in the Badlands include Dinosaur RV Park and Hoodoo RV Resort & Campground.
Now that you’re all revved up for your RV trip across Western Canada, check out GoRVing.ca to find free online resources to help you start planning. Go RVing Canada’s RV trip planning tool includes pre-planned routes in B.C., Alberta, and across Canada making planning even easier.
If you’re looking to make an investment into the RV lifestyle or preparing for your first RV trip, you can take a look at the RV Starter Kit for tips on how to choose your perfect RV and whether renting or buying an RV is right for you.
This summer, it’s time to get outdoors and find your Wildhood!
