Things to Do in Campbell River
Beyond the fishing: trails, beaches, wildlife, and adventures for your whole trip.
Campbell River isn't just the "Salmon Capital of the World" - it's surrounded by old-growth forests, pristine beaches, and incredible wildlife. Whether you're traveling with family, looking for rainy day activities, or want to explore on non-fishing days, there's plenty to discover.
Outdoor Adventures
Campbell River is gateway to some of Vancouver Island's best trails, parks, and natural wonders.
Hiking Trails
- • Elk Falls - 60m suspension bridge
- • Beaver Lodge Lands - 50+ trails
- • Ripple Rock - Historic viewpoint
- • Strathcona Provincial Park
View all trails →
Mountain Biking
- • Cumberland - 209 trails, world-class
- • Snowden Forest - 100+ km local
- • All skill levels
- • Rental shops nearby
Explore trails →
Shoreline Walks
- • Rotary Seawalk - 5km waterfront
- • Discovery Pier area
- • Willow Point tide pools
- • Wheelchair accessible options
View walks →
Kayaking & Paddling
- • Discovery Passage paddling
- • Rebecca Spit routes
- • Wildlife encounters
- • Beginner to advanced
Plan your paddle →
Beaches & Swimming
- • Miracle Beach - best sandy beach
- • McIvor Lake - warmest water
- • Splash parks for kids
- • Tide pool exploring
Find beaches →
Quadra Island
- • 10-min ferry from downtown
- • Indigenous cultural centre
- • Rebecca Spit - best sunset
- • 5+ hiking trails
Plan your visit →
Rainy Day Activities
Campbell River gets rain. Here's how to make the most of it.
10+ Indoor Activities
Museums & Culture
- • Museum at Campbell River
- • Discovery Passage Aquarium
- • Maritime Heritage Centre
- • Campbell River Art Gallery
Recreation
- • Strathcona Gardens (waterslides!)
- • The Reef Indoor Playground
- • Tidemark Theatre
- • Local spas & wellness
10+
indoor activities
Free options available
View complete rainy day guide →
Family Activities
Keep the whole family entertained between fishing trips.
Discovery Pier
Free shore fishing. Great for kids learning to fish.
Holly Hill Farm
Feed baby wallabies! Yes, wallabies. Kids love it.
Salmon Hatchery
FREE tours. Watch salmon spawning Aug-Oct.
Wildlife Calendar
Eagles, salmon, seals year-round viewing.
View all family activities
Dining & Nightlife
Local favorites for seafood, craft beer, and evening entertainment.
Where to Eat
Seafood
- • Crabby Bob's
- • Quay West Kitchen
- • Harbour Grill
Casual
- • The Ideal Cafe
- • Dicks Fish & Chips
- • Beach Fire Brewing
Cook Your Catch! Some restaurants will cook your fresh-caught salmon.
View all restaurants →
Nightlife & Evening
Bars & Pubs
- • Beach Fire Brewing
- • Riptide Marine Pub
- • Drift Kitchen + Bar
Evening Ideas
- • Sunset at Rebecca Spit
- • Tidemark Theatre
- • Stargazing spots
Fishing Town Vibes: Relaxed evenings, not big city nightlife.
View nightlife guide →
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about things to do in Campbell River.
What should we do in Campbell River if it rains?
Campbell River has plenty of indoor activities! Visit the Museum at Campbell River, Discovery Passage Aquarium, or Maritime Heritage Centre. Families love The Reef indoor playground and Strathcona Gardens with its waterslides and skating rink. Many restaurants and breweries are perfect for a rainy day lunch.
Is Quadra Island worth visiting?
Absolutely! Quadra Island is a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River and offers excellent hiking, the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre, Cape Mudge Lighthouse, and beautiful beaches at Rebecca Spit. It's perfect for a half-day or full-day trip when you're not fishing.
Where can we swim near Campbell River?
McIvor Lake (5 minutes from town) offers warm freshwater swimming - much warmer than the ocean. Miracle Beach (30 minutes north) has the best sandy beach on Vancouver Island with tide pools. The ocean hovers around 8-16°C, so most prefer freshwater lakes for swimming.
What's the best hike near Campbell River?
Elk Falls Provincial Park is a must-see with its 60-meter suspension bridge (Vancouver Island's highest), three waterfalls, and the 3.7km Three Falls Loop trail. For easier walks, try Beaver Lodge Lands with 520 hectares of urban forest and 50+ trails.
Are there activities for kids in Campbell River?
Yes! Kids love Discovery Pier for shore fishing, Holly Hill Petting Farm (they have baby wallabies!), The Reef indoor playground, Willow Point splash park (summer), and the free salmon hatchery tours at Quinsam River. During salmon season (Aug-Oct), watching salmon spawn is unforgettable.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Book your fishing charter, then fill the rest of your trip with adventure!
