Located about 25km from Lumby, Cherryville is a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility amidst nature. While you’re in the area, don’t miss out on visiting Sisters Cafe in Lumby. The food is delightful and the service is commendable.

We thank Paul for choosing Pacific RV Ventures. Enjoy your time in Cherryville and the surrounding areas! At Pacific RV Ventures, we’re more than a transport service; we’re your gateway to exploring the beauty of North America, one journey at a time.

The post RV Transport Success Stories – Cherryville BC appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

Include the kids in planning

For kids – especially older kids – who have never been camping or RVing before, getting buy-in can sometimes be a challenge. Getting them on board with the idea of an RV trip is much easier when you ask them what they want. Include your children in research on potential destinations and help them come up with a list of attractions they’d like to experience. Take some time with your little ones to browse websites and blogs about the cities and parks you’ll be stopping in on your travels. Build anticipation of the trip by talking about the sights and experiences they can look forward to.

Seatbelts on, everybody

If you’re travelling in a motorhome, it’s just as important (if not more important) for kids to buckle up as it is in your car or truck. Never let them move about the vehicle while it’s in motion.

People tend to think of motorhomes like buses, but motorhomes are not built to the same standards. RVs have a longer stopping distance, manoeuvre differently and take longer to avoid road hazards than smaller vehicles.

If you are bringing young children along, be sure to ask in advance whether there is a forward-facing seat with a seatbelt appropriate for use with your car seat or booster seat. It’s best to bring your own as you know how to fasten it correctly, and know the fit will be correct. If you are arriving at your point of road trip departure by plane, know that most airlines will let you check a car seat with your luggage, free of charge.

Try shorter travel days

Cruising down the road with the breeze in your hair and your tunes on is a road trip fantasy for many adults, but kids tend to have a lot less stamina for travel than their parents.

Long travel days can be tiring, confining and uncomfortable for even the most patient young ones. 3-4 hours a day is the most you should ask of younger kids, though older ones may be able to last up to 8 hours. Plan your travel schedule with a slower pace in mind to allow plenty of time for snack stops, stretches and potty breaks. If kids are becoming fussy and starting fights, it may be easier to stop and let them burn off some energy, or distract them with an unscheduled roadside attraction break, than to drive through the whining.

Choose family-friendly campgrounds

When it comes to your campground, there are definitely some places that are more kid-friendly than others, so do your research in advance.

On days with good weather, your kids are going to want to explore outside so make sure the campground has fun and safe outdoor activities for them. Look for campgrounds with pools, games areas and playgrounds. Seek out those near parks, especially those with climbing gyms, mild hiking trails, bike & skateboard parks and other child-friendly attractions. Many tourist areas have RV parks that are close to popular attractions such as mini-golf courses, museums and aquariums (and many of these activities are great on rainy days too).

Before you book your site, read online reviews to find out the experiences of other families with kids – was the campground welcoming, safe and clean? When it comes to bedtime, campgrounds with nighttime noise restrictions are your best bet for a peaceful sleep.

Plan your meals & snacks

If there’s one thing besides sleep deprivation that will send kids into tantrum mode on a trip, it’s low blood sugar. Keep your RV and your day bag packed with healthy snacks to avoid hangry meltdowns. Consider planning and shopping for quick and easy-to-make meals in advance, and eating on a schedule to keep little bellies full.

Of course, it’s important to leave room for special treats! If you’re going to eat at restaurants on your trip, read some reviews in advance. That way you’ll discover if your chosen venue is a family restaurant or more adult-oriented, and whether it offers kids’ menus, crayons and paper, booster seats, and other kid-friendly amenities.

Don’t forget one of the biggest joys of camp cooking – wiener roasts and smores! Kids love sticking food on sticks and watching the flames lick at their food. You might have a few pieces of food lost to the fire, but isn’t that part of the fun? Before sparking up your cooking fire, make sure you check for campfire bans in your area. Remember to never leave kids unattended near a fire, and be sure to fully extinguish the fire before you head inside your RV for the night.

Bring the fun with you

There are going to be times on your trip when your kids are going to have to wait, and kids are notoriously bad at that. On long drives or rainy days, make sure you have enough indoor entertainment options to keep them busy. Travel games (like travel bingo) and board games are classic choices. A deck of cards can be used for many games and takes up very little space. Curling up with a hot chocolate and a pile of books is a perfect way to spend a rainy day. Many RVs also offer entertainment options like built-in stereos or TVs perfect for kids music and movies.

Remember the 3 S’s: space, storage and safety

Space: Compare the floor space available in your chosen RVs. On rainy days, you’ll appreciate having rented something with plenty of space for kids to move and play. Separate rooms or divided sleeping areas are also very useful for helping your children get to sleep more easily – and having a separate master bedroom is likely to make life better for you.

Storage: Look for something with lots of interior storage: essential for stocking your RV with all the diapers, toys, snacks, games and outdoor toys you’ll need for your trip. If you’re renting a motorhome, find out if your rental agency offers bike racks.

Safety: When travelling with precious cargo, safety is the most important feature. If you’re renting a motorhome, make sure there are working seatbelts available for everyone, and look for optional safety features like a rearview camera or electronic braking system. Ask if the RV has a working smoke detector and whether it has a carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

With these tips in mind, you should be set for a memorable vacation that parents AND kids will enjoy.

Additional Links & Resources

Pacific RV prides itself on being a family-friendly rental company, and we take your family’s fun and safety seriously. If you are planning a trip out our way to Vancouver Island, here are some resources and links that can help make your trip extra awesome.

Park Sands Beach Resort RV Resort Packages (perfect for families)

https://pacificrvventures.com/resort-packages

Park Sands Beach Resort is a quiet, family-oriented campground and RV park, situated on the sandy shores of Parksville Bay, in downtown Parksville. Families have been coming to the resort for generations to enjoy one of the best vacation beaches in the area. The resort is right next to Parksville Community Park with its 39 acres of green space, boardwalks, picnic shelters and lots of recreational activities such as a huge playground, beach volleyball courts, skateboard park, lacrosse box, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, outdoor theatre, food trucks and more! It’s also just a few minutes’ walk to downtown Parksville with its charming shops, cafes and restaurants.

Our comprehensive resort package includes a stay in one of our 3 extra roomy, clean, new-model RVs with lots of sleep space for everybody. These RVs sleep up to 10, although the resort caps occupancy at 6. All three of our trailers have a separate master bedroom so parents can have their alone time.

The trailers are stocked with all the cooking and cleaning supplies your family will need. Included with the trailers are bedding and towels – even beach towels for your beach-time pleasure – as well as extras like a BBQ, propane campfire, 20 lbs of propane, and camp chairs for everybody. They are regularly checked for cleanliness and safety and come with smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors and first aid kits.

More about the Park Sands Resort:
https://pacificrvventures.com/park-sands-beach-resort-positive-vibes-only-in-parksville-bc/

Fun things to do with your kids in Parksville:
https://pacificrvventures.com/parksville-for-kids

The best parks and beaches in Parksville:
https://pacificrvventures.com/the-parks-of-parksville

Unique and fun attraction 20 minutes from Parkville:
https://pacificrvventures.com/goats-on-the-roof-the-magic-of-coombs-old-country-market

The post RV Travel Tips for Families with Kids appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

The City of Victoria is one of British Columbia’s – and the world’s – hottest tourist attractions. People flock to this West Coast gem with a British twist for its mild weather, beautiful gardens and old-world charm. It is well-known for its many cultural events, restaurants, Chinatown, and charming shopping districts. For locals, however, the cost and availability of housing in the city have become prohibitive, which has led to rapid expansion and improvements in other parts of Victoria’s Capital Regional District, or CRD.

One of the fastest growing areas in the CRD is the West Shore, also known as the Western Communities. Largely dismissed as a “redneck” area in the 90s and earlier, the new millennium has seen the West Shore rebuild and rebrand itself as a vibrant, growing residential hub for young workers and families. New shopping areas are springing up all the time, offering everything from malls, big box stores, retail and fast food chains to fine dining, boutiques, and artisan shops. As the West Shore is a newer area to be developed, it is still interspersed with and surrounded by plenty of green space with beautiful parks, trails and beaches.

If you are travelling Vancouver Island by RV, we encourage you to make the West Shore one of your stops! We’ve put together a list of our favourite places to stay, play, eat and explore in this lesser-known part of Victoria & area.

RV-Friendly Campgrounds

Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina

For a top-of-the-line camping experience, consider Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina. This friendly, well-maintained resort is located just 40 minutes from downtown Victoria, on the shore of stunning Pedder Bay in the community of Metchosin. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the area against a backdrop of the Olympic Mountain Range and the Race Rocks Marine Reserve. Explore the surrounding parkland with a network of local trails. RV sites are fully serviced, with some right on the waterfront, and some pull-through lots are available. Visitors rave about the clean, modern facilities and friendly, helpful staff.

Website: www.pedderbay.com
Google Maps: https://g.page/PedderBay?share

Goldstream Provincial Park

This provincial park and campground is chock full of coastal beauty – the cedars and firs of the temperate rainforest; the clear, salmon-bearing stream; the spray of the Upper Goldstream Falls on ferns; majestic Mount Finlayson; the educational Nature House… you may not want to leave this beautiful place! The campground is clean and well-maintained, with flush toilets and free hot showers available to campers. While there are no full-service sites in the campground, the sani-station is available to use for $5 per discharge during the high season.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/goldstream
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/5rFF8zCi9WT9LAxC7

Restaurants

My Chosen Cafe

This rustic Metchosin eatery has been a local favourite since 1987. If you’re looking for hearty homestyle fare in a cozy, unpretentious environment, you’ll want to make a stop here! Specializing in a wide assortment of unique, tasty burgers (such as the Lamb Burger, Cajun Chicken Burger and Mushroom Jack Burger), classic sandwiches (like the Hot Roast Beef, Toasted Shrimp and Monte Cristo), and all-day breakfast, the menu will make it tough to leave room for dessert! Try your best though… otherwise, you’ll miss out on a slice of fresh pie or cake from the restaurant’s bakery, the Sugar Shack.

Website: https://www.mychosencafe.com
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/gtBaHGyBn7hCT5dg8

House of Boateng

If you’re looking to try something a little more upscale (but still casual), we recommend House of Boateng. In the heart of Langford, this classy, modern venue serves local food with a West African & Caribbean fusion flair. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail and snacks on the patio or dinner from the chef’s seasonal tasting menu. If you’re a morning person (or awake any time before 3 pm), you can stop by for a Caesar and brunch, featuring menu items such as Harissa Grilled Halloumi Crepe, Banana Bread French Toast and Crab Benny.

Website: https://www.houseofboateng.ca
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/EMqj7JYNB3ShYhVS7

Attractions

Hatley Castle

Travel back to the early 1900s at Hatley Park National Historic Site, located on the lush green grounds of Royal Roads University. You may recognize the building’s distinctive facade from the X-Men movie series and other shows such as Smallville and Descendants. Commissioned in 1908 by coal baron James Dunsmuir, the castle and estate were purchased by the Canadian Government in 1940 and repurposed as the Royal Canadian Naval College at Royal Roads. Today, Royal Roads continues business as a non-military university, preserving the building, lavish furnishings, and surrounding gardens as a museum open to all. The interior of the castle is accessible by guided tour only. Visit the website for more details.

Website: https://hatleypark.ca
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/VsSX65H8kzc2Ybfh6

Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse

Military buffs of all ages will be sure to enjoy this fascinating and well-preserved piece of WWI & WWII history. Kids will enjoy climbing the old batteries and exploring underground bunkers and magazines. Adults will learn about the history of the fortress, which was on active duty from 1895 to 1956, and the fascinating personal stories of soldiers and their families. Afterwards, take a walk down the path to the beach and tour the Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the Canadian West Coast.

Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/biFMSRScttB8YXzt6

Sooke Potholes

On a hot day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in the clear, cold waters of a river. This beloved swimming spot has been a favourite escape for CRD residents for decades – since long before it was made into a park, and the only access to the potholes was technically by trespassing. (1.5 kilometres up the trail, you can still see the foundations of a failed resort that was partially constructed – then abandoned – in the 80s.) When you park in the lot at the bottom of the park and start up the trail, you’ll find several beautiful swim spots: shallow pools for the kids, and further up, the deeper “potholes” surrounded by worn river rock. The sounds of the eddies and waterfalls combined with the song of birds and the wind in the surrounding rainforest will leave you feeling peaceful and refreshed. The park also offers an RV-friendly campground in the high season, although there is no hydro, dumping station or showers.

Website: https://www.crd.bc.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/find-park-trail/sooke-potholes
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/qRRhJjSxu8SWwowa9

WildPlay Elements Park

The City of Colwood boasts one of the most exciting outdoor adventures on the Island – a place where you and your kids can really monkey around! This thrilling tree-to-tree adventure course lets you zip, crawl and climb through the rainforest canopy, testing your courage and agility on a variety of aerial challenges. Before you begin your course, the friendly WildPlay staff will give you a safety lesson on the ground to get you comfortable using the ziplines and the continuous belay system. For your little monkeys, there’s a kids’ course that’s just the right height for shorter arms and legs. Adults can choose between WildPlay Classic, or WildPlay Extreme with its extra-high, extra heart-pumping challenges. If you want more, you can also sign up for axe-throwing, a zipline tour, or the 40-ft “what’s to fear” bungee jump!

Website: https://www.wildplay.com/victoria
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/nfFdEFWLoRC2DHWE7

City Centre Park

If it’s raining and the kids are bored, City Centre Park is a great place to spend the day indoors. There’s an excellent bowling alley where you can vie for 10-pin supremacy, and a PlayZone where kids 1-12 years old can run, crawl and slide through a massive indoor play structure. There’s even a toddlers’ area for the under-3 crowd. (Make sure your kids arrive wearing socks – no shoes or bare feet are allowed.) There’s also an ice rink with drop-in skating on Sundays 3 – 4:20 pm, and a pirate-themed mini-golf course for when the sun comes back out. If you’re hungry after your adventures, you can grab a bite to eat at the City Centre Grille, a sports bar with big-screen TVs and a wall of vintage arcade games.

Website: https://citycentrepark.ca
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/QuZSgkjWg4Ej1zmD6

Malahat Skywalk

Get some exercise and “the ultimate natural high” at the Malahat Skywalk, a spectacular gentle spiral ramp that takes you 32 meters in the air. At the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular views in every direction, out over the forest canopy and beyond to Finlayson Arm, The Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and the Coast Mountains. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of eagles, falcons and other raptors soaring above the firs. If you’re brave, you can take a walk on the 900 sq ft Adventure Net suspended across at the very top of the SkyWalk tower. When it’s time to come back down, you have the option to descend via a thrilling 64-ft enclosed spiral slide! The Skywalk is safe and accessible for kids, wheelchairs and strollers. Malahat Skywalk is one of the CRD’s newest attractions, built by the local Malahat First Nation to help visitors discover and appreciate the beauty of their traditional territory.

Website: https://malahatskywalk.com
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/EfaomCVtn6NgdbnW8

The post Let’s Explore the West Shore appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

You can still visit all the famous Victoria & Saanich Peninsula establishments in September while enjoying smaller crowds and shorter wait times than you would in July. If you’re considering a trip to the Island in September (and we recommend it), here are some events, activities and destinations we think you and your crew might enjoy.

Victoria

Victoria Ghostly Walks

Learn about Victoria’s sordid past the spooky way! Ghostly Walks offers a variety of spine-chilling tours of Old Victoria. With over 500 ghost stories in their roster of tales, you’ll be sure to hear something that keeps you up at night. You can book your walk at the link below.

https://discoverthepast.com/ghostly-walks

Victoria Harbour Ferry Ballet

Taking inspiration from the RCMP musical ride, the Victoria Harbour Ferries have been performing their aquatic ballets since 1990. Head over to the Steamship Terminal in the Inner Harbour for the best seats in the house. Afterwards, stay and take a ride on one of these adorable watercraft to one of their many stops along the Victoria waterfront. Performs at 10:45am on September 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 and 30.

https://victoriaharbourferry.com/water-ballet

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

Take in classic and modern art exhibitions in this refurbished 1889 mansion and attached galleries. With almost 20,000 works of art, the Art Gallery has the most extensive public collection in BC and is a vibrant and active part of Victoria’s artist community.

https://aggv.ca

Capital City Comic Con

The Comic Con phenomenon has been a mecca for all things geek and pop culture since 1964 when the first Con debuted in New York. So whether you love cosplay, superheroes, wizards, or zombies, Capital City Comic Con is the place for you to play and be a kid again. 2022’s comic con runs from September 23 – 25. Tickets are available at the link below.

https://visitorinvictoria.ca/capital-city-comic-con/

Rifflandia Music Festival

Come out and dance it up at the Island’s final (and arguably best) music festival of the season! The 2022 festival runs September 15 – 18 and features talent such as Lorde, Charli XCX, Ben Harper, Cypress Hill, Black Pumas, Lauv, Cat Power and more. All ages are welcome (though the beer garden is 19+).

https://rifflandia.com/

Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival

For over three decades, Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival has taken over downtown Victoria for a celebration of indie spoken word, drama, musicals, dance, comedy, magic, theatre for young audiences and more, playing at venues all across the city. The festival starts in August but continues through to early September (September 4th in 2022).

https://intrepidtheatre.com/festivals/fringe-festival/

Pedaler Cycling Tours: Hoppy Hour Ride

Victoria is a mecca for cyclists and craft beer lovers alike – so why not combine the two? Enjoy a 3-hour, 9.5km guided tasting tour: get some exercise, see the sights along the Selkirk Waterway and visit three of the city’s best breweries. Book your tour at the link below.

https://thepedaler.ca/bicycle-tours/

Saanich Peninsula

Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse

Come and sample delicious (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) organic, artisan ciders and snacks such as local charcuterie at this beautiful venue. Look out over the orchards and across Haro Strait to James Island as you enjoy the local flavours of the Saanich Peninsula. Reservations are required (link below).

https://www.seacider.ca

Butchart Gardens

In 1912, the Butchart family began their conversion of a decommissioned limestone quarry into a world-famous botanical masterpiece with a sunken garden, an Italian garden, a Japanese garden and a glorious rose garden. The blooms are still bright here in September, but the crowds are thinner. Until September 11, visit the garden after dusk to see the Night Illumination transform the garden into a fairy wonderland.

https://www.butchartgardens.com

The Saanich Fair

The Saanich Fair is an Island institution dating back to 1868. The fair began as a way for a small group of pioneer farming families to have an annual gathering dedicated to celebrating their farms, gardens and homes. While kids of all look forward to the midway rides, live entertainment and mini-donuts, the barns and stands full of prize animals and crops, as well as baking, preserve and craft competitions herald back to the fair’s pioneer roots.

https://saanichfair.ca

Farmers Markets

Victoria and area is a hotspot for amazing outdoor markets! This is far from a complete list but does offer some of the highlights.

Esquimalt Farmers Markets

The Esquimalt Farmers Market provides a community-focused marketplace that serves as a community gathering point and offers access to healthy local food and local craft creations. They offer two weekly markets in Esquimalt:

• Monday nights, 4:30 – 7:30pm at Gorge Park (1070 Tillicum Rd.)
• Thursday nights, 4:30 – 7:30pm at Memorial Park (1200 Esquimalt Rd.)

https://www.esquimaltmarket.com

James Bay Community Market

James Bay Community Market is a vibrant community market in the heart of historic James Bay, Victoria. Join them for fresh produce, food, live music and local crafts. Takes place 9:00am – 3:00pm on Saturdays at the corner of Menzies & Superior.

https://www.jamesbaymarket.com

Moss Street Market

The Moss Street Market runs May through October, rain or shine, every Saturday from 10:00am – 2:00pm at the Sir James Douglas school grounds (401 Moss St.) Visit to check out their array of local and organic farm-fresh produce, local foods, handmade crafts, artisan clothing and inspiring services.

https://www.mossstreetmarket.com

Peninsula Country Market

Visit the Saanich Fairgrounds (528 Stelly’s Cross Road) any Saturday in September between 9:00am  – 1:00pm for over 50 local community vendors, farm-fresh food, music and more.

https://peninsulacountrymarket.ca

Sidney Farmers Market

The Sidney Farmers Market is home to a variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, food and beverages, jewelry, pottery, glassware and more. The market is happening in Sidney through September, on Sundays 10:00am – 2:00pm in the parking lot at the Mary Winspear Center (2243 Beacon Ave.)

https://www.sidneystreetmarket.com

The post September in Victoria & The Saanich Peninsula appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

When most people think of Vancouver Island, the first thing to come to mind is the Garden City of Victoria. Every year, millions of tourists flock from around the world to enjoy Victoria’s beautiful gardens, parks, shopping and British charm.

If you enjoy getting away from the crowds and off the beaten path, the drive Northward is worth it – you’ll see some of the most charming tiny towns, incredible wild scenery and abundant wildlife imaginable.

Because so much of BC’s tourism marketing dollars go to Victoria, the attractions and offerings of the North Island are not as well documented. For this reason, we’ve put together this brief guide to six “hidden gem” towns north of Campbell River.

How to Get to North Vancouver Island by RV

Highway 19, also known as the Island Highway, runs the length of Vancouver Island from Nanaimo in the south all the way past Campbell River to Port Hardy in the north. If you’re coming from Victoria, you’ll see the exit for Highway 19 (from Highway 1) just south of Nanaimo.

Keep in mind that while you can reach the towns listed below by RV, many surrounding destinations must be reached by gravel & logging service roads and aren’t suitable for RV driving. Consider renting or bringing a 4×4 vehicle, ATV or hiring a tour company to get you safely to these more remote locations.

Looking for somewhere to camp up North?

Check out our big list of full-service RV campgrounds for Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River and North Vancouver Island.

Now on to the towns!

Sayward

Nestled at the mouth of the Salmon River, this tiny logging community of 400 is one of Vancouver island’s older communities. Railroad logging was a major industry here from 1904 – 1914 and again starting in the late 1930’s. You’ll see reminders of this history in the antique logging equipment displayed throughout the town.

Bear and elk hunting and fly fishing are popular pastimes in Sayward Valley’s verdant and abundant wilderness. If you prefer to fish close to civilization, the town’s port of Kelsey Bay has a popular fishing wharf.

One of Sayward’s most notable attractions is the Cable Cookhouse, a local eatery wrapped in 8200 feet of old logging cables. There are many other natural wonders to explore nearby, such as the World’s Largest Yellow Cedar, Salmon River Estuary Trail, Dalrymple Creek Trail and Mount Kain.

If you really want to test your mettle, sign up for the gruelling Kusam Klimb, an annual 23km mountain race through some of the area’s most spectacular scenery. If the views don’t leave you breathless, the race certainly will!

Google Map link: ​​https://goo.gl/maps/CHt5BwGYny8nGVc19

Woss

You’ll notice a common theme in towns of the heavily-forested North: logging. This tiny town is no exception.

Woss was home to the last operating logging railway in North America. The line ran for 100 years until a train derailment triggered its closure in 2017. Today, you can visit (and board) the historic retired Steam Locomotive 113 at Woss Heritage Park and learn about the history of railway logging.

Woss is a popular jump-off point to hike and explore the surrounding Nimpkish Valley. Explore the rugged trails of Schoen Lake Park, Woss Lake Provincial Park or Nimpkish Valley Ecological Reserve.

The Little Huson Caves, a 30-minute drive from Woss, is one of the most memorable attractions in the area. The sound of the blue-green waters of Atluck Creek echoing through limestone arches and rock formations will leave you feeling peaceful and refreshed. There are 15 known caves of various sizes located in the park.

Google Map link: ​​https://goo.gl/maps/jyU5Yo2TTBYFm5ba7

Telegraph Cove

From telegraph station to sawmill town and fishing village to eco-tourism mecca, this picturesque village has worn many hats!

With its quaint boardwalk and spectacular ocean views, it’s certainly worth the 20-minute detour from Highway 19. Artists and photographers come to the town to paint the colourful buildings (many on stilts) surrounded by the lush green forest.

While you’re here, you can enjoy the scenery from a cafe, visit the Whale Interpretive Centre, or check out one of the local galleries for unique handmade items. If you’d like to see more of the natural beauty surrounding the town, many local companies offer whale and grizzly watching tours, kayak trips and fishing charters.

Google Map link: ​​https://goo.gl/maps/cfWQVS9DxZSBFqFq9

Port McNeill

Port McNeill is the second largest town on Northern Vancouver island after Port Hardy (“biggest” meaning a population of 2,356). It’s a great place to wander the seawall, enjoy the harbour’s beautiful vistas, and peruse the local galleries, museums and shops.

The most well-known attraction in this former logging town is the world’s largest burl – and the world’s second-largest burl, dethroned by the new burl in 2005. (The second-largest burl, cut from a Sitka Spruce in 1976, is about 5 minutes out of town at 1921 SW Main Rd, where it intersects with Highway 19.) The largest burl is in a waterfront park downtown.

Nearby Port McNeill are many magnificent parks, including Broughton Archipelago Provincial Marine Park, which comprises dozens of untouched islands and can only be reached by boat. There are plenty of local tour companies who can take you out kayaking, boating and wildlife watching in the archipelago.

Google Map link: ​​https://goo.gl/maps/cfWQVS9DxZSBFqFq9

Alert Bay

Hop aboard BC Ferries’ new hybrid-engine Island Aurora ferry from Port McNeill to visit Alert Bay and Sointula (profiled below). This enjoyable and inexpensive ride offers incredible views of Johnstone Strait. You can even take a day trip to both Alert Bay and Sointula on the same day using one ticket to save money.

Alert Bay is located on nearby Cormorant Island, about half of which is set aside as a Namgis First Nation reserve. Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre to learn more about local first nations history and culture and to view their stunning traditional artwork.

The town itself is populated by many historical buildings, and is dotted with over 30 totem poles, including the world’s tallest, which stands at 173 feet!

Nearby Alert Bay Ecological Park, with its upland marsh traversed by a network of well-marked trails and boardwalks, is a perfect place for nature-lovers to explore.

Google Map link: ​​https://goo.gl/maps/PDikagpxTcQoWmVM8

Sointula

The village of Sointula, on Malcolm island, was founded in 1901 by Finnish settlers. They envisioned a utopian community and thus named their village Sointula, which means “place of harmony” in Finnish.

Despite the years, the town still retains much of that special character. Many older residents of the town still speak Finnish. The houses are quaint and colourful, and many have kitchen gardens for growing their own produce. The local store, Sointula Co-op, has been in business for over 100 years! You can learn more about the town’s history at the Sointula Museum.

Other Malcolm Island must-sees include the delicious town bakery, Dunroven Farm & Forge, and Bere Point Regional Park with its 4.5 km roundtrip beachside trail. If your timing is good, you might see orcas swimming by or catch of glimpse of other local wildlife, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, otters, Humpback Whales, bald eagles and a variety of shorebirds.

Google Maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/wDNRc3LJRw49Rmo2A

North Island Resources

https://happiestoutdoors.ca/things-to-do-on-north-vancouver-island/
https://www.hellobc.com/places-to-go/northern-vancouver-island/
https://vancouverislandview.com/vancouver-island-north-road-trip/
https://xoxobella.com/guide-to-north-vancouver-island-what-to-see-do/
https://vancouverisland.travel/regions/north-island/
https://vancouverislandnorth.ca/

The post 6 Tiny Towns of Northern Vancouver Island appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

Image courtesy of Park Sands Beach Resort.

Park Sands Beach Resort, located in the heart of charming Parksville, BC, is a very special place. It’s the kind of place that families love to return to year after year, generation after generation. This 100-lot family-run resort welcomes guests from all over the world to enjoy the natural beauty and hospitality of this beautiful seaside town. The Resort is known for its friendly staff and its cheerful motto: “Positive Vibes Only”!

Read on to discover if a trip to Parksville is right for you, and if so, if Park Sands Beach Resort could be the RV camping experience you’re looking for.

What’s Special about Parksville?

Pacific RV Ventures chose Parksville for our deluxe Resort Package because we have so many precious memories of this place. As a family-owned business, we wanted to give other families the opportunity to relax and play in this unique town, exploring all the sights, sounds and tastes it has to offer.

One of our favourite things about Parksville is the spectacular, well-maintained parks in the area. From wide, sandy beaches to forested trails, waterfalls, playgrounds, lakes, outdoor concerts and even horseshoe pits, there are plenty of outdoor entertainment options for everybody from toddlers to grandmas. (Click this link for a detailed blog post about our favourite parks.)

Image: Family at Little Qualicum Falls Park. Credit: GoToVan

Parksville is also known for being a hub of family-friendly activities. Summer brings the annual Parksville Beach Festival, with its world-famous Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition, free Summer Concert Series, daily buskers and artisan market. There are two whimsical mini-golf courses, a local farm with a working cheese factory, a wildlife hospital, a butterfly greenhouse, a market with goats living on the sod roof and much more. (Click this link for our list of the best places to take your kids in Parksville.)

Picture courtesy of Parksville Beach Festival.

What’s Special About Park Sands Beach Resort?

A quiet, community-minded resort

This resort is not for party animals! Rather, it provides a serene and family-friendly environment where kids, their parents and grandparents can gather together in an environment of safety and peace. Loud music is not permitted and quiet time is enforced from 11 pm – 8 am.

Picture courtesy of Park Sands Beach Resort.

Right on the ocean

Fill your lungs with salt air and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. The resort is oceanfront, directly surrounded by the beautiful ocean boardwalk. Walk the boardwalk with your sweetie, challenge the kids to a sandcastle building competition, examine the tide pools for sea life or work on your tan on miles of soft grey sand.

Picture courtesy of Park Sands Resort.

Centrally located in the heart of Parksville

Located right next store to Community Park with its many sports facilities (including a beach volleyball area and skate park), playground, splash park and summertime food trucks, Park Sands is in an ideal location to access all Parksville has to offer. With Downtown Parksville just a few minutes’ walk away, you can easily visit nearby restaurants, convenience stores, grocery stores, banks, thrift stores and gift shops without even getting in your car.

Picture courtesy of Park Sands Beach Resort.

A sound bath spa

Something new and unique for 2022: Park Sands is offering guests the opportunity to soothe their nervous systems at the end of a busy day with the power of sound. Breathe your cares away surrounded by the healing waves of a Gong Bath and sound frequency healing therapy.

Art Fair By The Beach

Join Park Sands Beach Resort in 2022 for their first annual Art Fair By The Beach! Details coming soon. (Click here to RSVP.)

Store on site

There is a small store on the resort grounds with various goods for your convenience including fabric softener, toilet paper, hand soap, bottles of water, cans of soda, and ice.

Additional amenities

• Free WiFi: 725MB of complimentary wireless internet per day
• Year-round fully equipped washrooms with coin showers
• Coin-operated laundry
• Front desk service
• Picnic tables

Picture courtesy of Park Sands Resort.

A Park Sand Guest’s Experience

“We have been staying at the Park Sands RV and Camping Resort at least a couple of times each year, for many years now and we love it there! Everyone is so friendly. We keep seeing the same families and couples year after year each summer, so obviously we’re not the only ones who love it there. It’s a super mellow place to stay. Not snobby at all and super safe for kids. No one gets out of hand or rude and everyone truly runs on “Island Time”… Walking distance to everything, across the boardwalk from the beach, next door to the big community park with so many events all year long…who wouldn’t love it there?”

• Ted B, TripAdvisor

How To Book Your Site

Because of its popularity, it’s difficult to get a campsite in the resort without booking in advance (for 2022, July and August are almost completely booked). However, Pacific RV has a beautiful Grand Design Imagine travel trailer for rent in the resort, still with availability for weekly rentals. If you’re looking for a last-minute vacation, surf on over to our Resort Package to learn more and request your booking.

If you have any questions before you book, or just want to learn more about Parksville and the Park Sands Beach Resort, feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!

The post Park Sands Beach Resort: Positive Vibes Only in Parksville, BC appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

Did you know that, in addition to our motorhome rentals, Pacific RV also has a special Resort Package that lets you kick back, relax and explore the beautiful seaside town of Parksville? Our Resort Package is located in the friendly, family-oriented Park Sands Resort and features our deluxe Imagine Grand Design travel trailer – big enough to sleep the whole family, and stocked with the comforts of home.

If you can’t tell from our previous Parksville-and-area posts (here and here), we love Parksville! We think one of the greatest things about the town is how friendly and welcoming it is to families, and how many exciting options it has to entertain kids of all ages. To celebrate this special aspect of the community we’ve chosen for our Resort Package we’ve put together a list of top Parksville places to take your children for food and entertainment – and to burn off some of that crazy vacation energy.

Mini Golf

Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf

Even though it’s close to the highway, this well-maintained and sheltered mini golf centre is surrounded by trees and feels well off the beaten track. The mini golf course itself has two separate courses to choose from, each with its own theme (lagoon or mountain) and terrain. The architecture and design of the course is whimsical, fun and very kid-friendly. After a round or two of golf, you can try out the bumper cars and arcade, or relax in the shade with some mini-donuts and ice cream from the clubhouse.

Website: https://www.riptidelagoon.com
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/UtjfmEVWycX5w3889

Paradise Mini Golf & Fun Park

Driving through Parksville, kids always get excited when they see the Paradise Fun Park castle and giant shoe-house by the side of the road. This course is a bit older than Riptide Lagoon but has a ton of classic fairy-tale charm, and is just an all-around fun game of golf. Depending on which course you choose you could find yourself putting through a pirate ship, a watermill, a clock tower, under a waterfall or into a treasure cave. If you’re up for it, try both courses and get a discount. Afterwards, the kids (and kids at heart) will have a blast driving the bumper boats.

Website: http://www.paradisefunpark.net
Map: https://g.page/ParadiseFunPark

Parks

We covered seven great Parksville parks in our “The Parks of Parksville” article a couple of months ago, so if you love the outdoors be sure to check it out! Here are two of our favourites for kids.

Community Park

Community Park enfolds 39-acres of spectacular beachfront, manicured fields and beautiful gardens. Activity options here are endless – take your pick from the horseshoe pits, kite field, lacrosse/street hockey box, tennis courts, beach volleyball courts or skate park. The Lions Ventureland Playground & Splash Park makes visiting this park a special treat for kids on any up-Island trip. This well-maintained playground – one of the Island’s best – is continually being updated with new equipment. Let your kids burn off some energy on the coloured slides and climbable sea creatures, swings, jungle gyms, trampolines and zipline.

Website: http://www.parksville.ca/cms.asp?wpID=204#Community%20Park
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/cv8EdV6xEr9LseZv9

Rathtrevor Beach

Probably Parksville’s most well-known natural treasure, this provincial park encompasses 347 hectares of coastal forests, perfect sandy beaches, open meadows, campgrounds and playgrounds. Rathtrevor is especially famous for its warm, shallow beaches that give way to huge stretches of grey sand when the tide goes out. There’s no better place to spend a day building an elaborate sand structure, then trying to protect it with moats and walls until the sea inevitably takes it back. Many Vancouver Island residents have fond memories of childhood summers spent camping, hiking, swimming and digging in the sand at Rathtrevor.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/rathtrevor/
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/F375SqVtfq1cu7ec7

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

This small, family-run cheesemaking facility is located on picturesque Morningstar Farm in Parksville. If your kids love animals and you love cheese, this is a win-win experience for your whole family. Take the self-guided tour and meet the cows, sheep, goats and other farm animals; catch the “milking robot” in action, and peek into the cheese plant where the magic happens. You can also visit the farm store for coffee, gifts, toys, and of course lots and lots of cheese for your hungry little munchkins!

Website: https://www.cheeseworks.ca
Map: https://g.page/lqcheeseworks

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

Another must-visit attraction for little animal lovers is the Wildlife Recovery Centre. Budding veterinarians and zookeepers can come and visit some very special patients, and learn how the Centre helps nurse injured wild animals back to health. Take a tour of the facility; meet eagles, owls, bears and other creatures; explore the wildlife garden; burn some energy at the “field of stones” playground; check out the eagle flight cage and “turtle town” and lots more. Admission for babies and toddlers is free, and kids under 16 are only $6 each.

Website: https://www.niwra.org
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/RwRPuuXBdsHCz2AN8

Butterfly World

Located in Parksville’s neighbour town of Coombs, Butterfly World lets you step into a magical land where the air is alive with the flutter of jewelled wings. Wander through a rainforest garden populated with brightly-coloured finches, turtles and tortoises, ponds full of koi (that you can feed), orchids in bloom and Izzy the bearded dragon. This calm and beautiful oasis will make you feel like you’re on a tropical vacation. Be aware that the greenhouse is kept warm and humid for its rainforest denizens, so dress in layers and bring something to drink.

Website: https://www.butterflyworldcoombs.com
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/3EyfBhrS7g2qzRWN7

Coombs Old Country Market (aka “Goats on the Roof”)

Over one million people visit this eclectic and unusual market every year to shop the dizzying variety of international merchandise and visit the namesake goats that live on the market’s sod roof. Visiting children love the market ceiling festooned with bright kites and lanterns, the bins of unusual toys and games, the hot meals and the mouth-watering delicacies in the bakery window. Souvenir collectors will enjoy the fascinating assortment of local and imported pottery, clothing, home decor items and other giftware. Gardening aficionados can explore an outdoor courtyard full of huge pots and interesting statues. Home chefs love the massive selection of delicious condiments and canned and packaged food from all around the world. There’s truly something for the whole family here!

For more info and “locals tips” on visiting the Old Country Market, check out our blog post “Goats on the Roof: The Magic of Coombs Old Country Market”.

Food

Lefty’s

Lefty’s is a family restaurant through and through… Expect your kids to be welcomed with warm smiles, colouring sheets and a kids’ menu with options like mac & cheese, kids waffle with fruit and whipped cream, or “worms and dirt” (vanilla ice cream and chocolate cookie crumbs with gummy worms). Lefty’s has a reputation for friendly staff and fresh, delicious food. They offer lots of gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Website: https://www.leftysfreshfood.com
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/BRzsvQgLobVpto6i9

Papa’s Burgers

Kids can be pretty picky eaters, but one meal they’ll rarely turn down is the classic burger, shake ‘n’ fries combo! That’s why we recommend Papa’s Burgers as a take-out joint of choice for families (there’s no seating here, so why not grab a bag of burgers and head to Community Park for a picnic?) Papa’s has fast service for eager kids and hangry parents alike, and as they say, their products have “wholesome ingredients, infused with love and made fresh every day”. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy what many reviewers say is the best burger in town.

Website: https://papasburgers.ca
Map: https://g.page/papasburgersca

The post Parksville for Kids appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

In this article, we list some helpful tips and must-brings for your off-grid adventure, followed by a list of five of Vancouver Island’s best rustic camping experiences. All campgrounds on this list are accessible by paved roads, so they will be safe for your vehicle. We have tried to highlight camping locations in diverse parts of the Island.

For the purposes of this article, we’re defining an “off-grid” campground as one of Vancouver Island’s more rustic and possibly less-travelled campgrounds, which don’t have RV hookups and may not have sani-stations. They will generally provide more basic facilities such as pit toilets and communal water taps rather than flush toilets and showers.

If you prefer a campground with RV hookups and more creature comforts, be sure to check out our Big List of RV Campsites (With Full Hookups) on Vancouver Island – here’s Part I, and here’s Part II. But if you love to explore the road less travelled, read on!

Dry Camping Tips

From years of experience, here are 6 tips for dry camping successfully without hookups.

Conserve fresh water

This is one of the most important considerations for dry camping. Without immediate access to fresh water to refill, you’ll need to self-manage your tanks to make sure you don’t run out of water. Start by determining your tank capacity, which can be found in your RV user manual. Once you know your capacity, you’ll have a better idea of how much water you have to work with.

Keep showers short and turn off the water in between steps to save water. Wash and rinse dishes with a small amount of water in the sink, and don’t leave the water running while brushing your teeth. Making these small changes will help you stretch your water supply further.  Keep an eye on your tank meters, and adjust your water usage to account for your remaining supply and how much longer you plan to camp before refilling your water.

Be sure to arrive at your dry camping destination with a full tank of fresh water. Plan ahead and never assume that your camping location has somewhere for you to fill your water tank. We have arrived at a campsite only to discover the fresh water is not potable (not safe to drink) so we had to turn around and fill the water tank elsewhere. Don’t make this mistake!

Conserve grey tank capacity

Grey water is the waste water from your sinks and shower. The more water you use for showers, brushing teeth, hand washing, and dishes, the faster your gray water tank will fill. Conserving your gray tank capacity is just as important as fresh water conservation. You can find your grey tank capacity information in your RV user manual. Keep in mind that your grey water tank is typically smaller than your fresh water tank.

It is never okay to dump grey water, so be sure not to overfill your tanks while dry camping. If the tanks are filling quicker than you expected, cut back on water usage to make sure you have plenty of tank capacity left for the rest of your stay.  Again, keep an eye on your tank meters to monitor your grey tank fill levels.

Be sure to arrive at a dry camping destination with your grey tank empty. You can empty it at many gas stations and travel centers, provincial parks, national parks, or private campgrounds (most are for a small fee).  Likewise, you’ll have to find somewhere to dump your tanks before returning home or to your next destination.

Manage black tank capacity

Managing your black tank is similar to managing your grey tank. This tank is filled solely from toilet usage and is typically the smallest of the RV tanks. Use as little water when flushing as possible – this will also help you conserve your fresh water levels.  Check your tank meters regularly to monitor your black tank fill levels.

Be sure to arrive at a dry camping destination with an empty black tank. You can use the same dump stations for both black and grey tanks. Don’t forget to dump your tanks before returning home or storing your RV!

Generate power/electricity

Power can be tricky to manage while dry camping. Conserve your power by turning off lights, stereo, and other equipment that draws battery power when you don’t absolutely need them or when you’re away from your RV.

Your house batteries (which store power for your RV) can be charged by plugging into shore power, driving or running a generator. If you are only planning to dry camp for one night, you should have enough power stored to last until you move on to your next destination.

If you need to recharge your batteries while dry camping, there are a variety of options. Many motorhomes (including Pacific RV’s motorhomes) come equipped with an onboard gasoline, diesel or propane-powered generator. If your RV doesn’t come with a generator, you can purchase one and hook it up to your batteries. Remember to be considerate with generator use since they are typically quite loud while running. Most camping areas have designated generator operation hours – or if not, only run your generator during reasonable daytime hours to avoid disturbing your neighbours.

If you plan to do lots of dry camping, it may be wise to invest in a solar power kit. These should be installed by professionals. There is typically a large up-front investment for these systems, but you will save money over time if you dry camp often. If you are interested in renting from Pacific RV, we do have a unit with solar power available.

Manage trash disposal

Since you will often not have access to a campground dumpster while dry camping, you will have to take your garbage out with you when you leave.  Many gas stations allow customers to throw away their garbage if you are filling up your fuel tanks with them. Likewise, some grocery stores don’t mind if you throw away a bag of trash when you are buying groceries. Provincial Parks with sani-dumps will often also have a garbage disposal area available nearby.  Be sure to practice consideration and ask permission when disposing of your trash.

Manage your supplies

Make sure you have all the food, drinks, snacks, ice etc. that you’ll need for your entire stay.  If you don’t have it with you, then you’ll have to do without unless you are willing to pack up and drive to where you can buy more.

Make sure you pack clothes that are suitable for the terrain and types of weather you’re likely to encounter at your destination. On our wet coast, waterproof items are essential – and if you’re camping in winter you’ll want to have plenty of warm layers. And unless you want to be covered in bites, be sure to pack long sleeve clothes and pants to protect yourself from bugs.

Off-Grid Campgrounds

China Beach Campground, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

This hidden gem is one of a number of campsites located along the popular Juan de Fuca Trail with its 47km of spectacular (if challenging) oceanside hiking, located between Jordan River and Port Renfrew on the Island’s rugged West Coast. There are 85 private drive-in sites surrounded by trees, each with its own firepit. The sites and facilities are well-maintained by the park hosts.

From the campground, you can hike down some slightly challenging but short (about 1km) trails down to either China Beach or Second Beach. Wear good shoes and watch for tree roots. The beaches themselves offer stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. If you’re lucky you may catch glimpses of local marine wildlife including orcas and seals.

In the forest, expect to see a variety of creatures such as squirrels, woodpeckers and jays. Campers share this wilderness area with bears and cougars, so be sure to keep your food safely stored. Bear-proof food storage boxes are provided for this purpose. It may be safer to leave your pets at home.

Pit toilets and water taps are located throughout the campground, and there are some wheelchair-accessible facilities. When you need to empty your waste tanks, you can do so at the sani-station at French Beach Provincial Park, about a 30-minute drive away.

In 2022, the campground is open from May 13 to October 1. You may be able to get a site on a first-come, first-served basis, but if you can it’s wise to reserve one in advance. The cost is $20 per party/night.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/juan_de_fuca/trailhd.html#china
Campground Map: https://wwwd.bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/juan_de_fuca/chinabeachcampground.pdf
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/9ANg7S576GzYGqiYA

Ralph River Campground, Strathcona Provincial Park

Stunning Strathcona is Vancouver Island’s largest park, and the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Comprising over 250,000 hectares of mountainous wilderness, this peerless beauty is a must-visit for lovers of outdoor recreation of all kinds. As there is no logging or hunting in the park, this is the perfect quiet place to enjoy the best of Vancouver island’s undisturbed backcountry.

Set amidst towering Douglas Firs, the campsite is located close to the mouth of Ralph River where it flows into Buttle Lake. From Ralph River Campsite, you’re in an ideal location to head out on the lake for a day of swimming, boating and fishing, or explore the park’s 52 kilometres of hiking trails.

Amenities at Ralph River include 75 vehicle-accessible campsites (most with fire rings) with communal washrooms and water pumps available. Some lakeside and riverside sites are available, and a few sites have spectacular views out over the valley. This site tends to be quieter than Strathcona’s other, larger front-country campground – Buttle Lake Campground – located 30 minutes north.

This is rustic camping at its finest, so note that you are unlikely to find cell service in the park. There is also no sani-dump in Strathcona or even within an hour’s drive, so plan accordingly! There are sani-stations available in Campbell River and a free one at the Gold River Visitor Centre.

You may be able to get a site on a first-come-first-served basis, but if you can it’s wise to reserve one in advance. The campground is open year round. The cost to camp at Ralph River is $20 per party/night in the on-season, $11 per party/night for winter camping.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/strath/#VehicleAccessibleCamping
Campground Map: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/strath/strath_buttle_campground.pdf
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/5CYrRRqA8tBt97K3A

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Located near the charming seaside town of Parksville, Little Qualicum Falls Park is undeniably one of the most magical locations on Vancouver Island. Majestic mountain peaks border fragrant old-growth forests. The falls themselves are awe-inspiring as they cascade down to the gorge below. 6 km of shaded walking trails follow the river through the forest and offer gorgeous views of the upper and lower falls.

The park is home to two campgrounds, an upper and a lower, with 83 vehicle-accessible campsites between them. The upper campground has flush toilets while the lower campground has pit toilets only, and there is a playground next to the upper campground. Drinking water is available and the campsites do have firepits. Following the trails from the campgrounds will take you up the river to view the falls.

There is no sani-station here, but there is one available at nearby Rathtrevor Park for $5.00, and two free sani-dumps in Port Alberni.

In 2022, The Upper Campground opens on April 14th, and the Lower Campground opens on May 13th, with both campgrounds closing for the winter on October 15th. Campsite reservations are accepted (and recommended) but if you’re lucky you may also snag a first-come, first-served site. The fee to camp here is $23 per party/night, with a senior rate of $11.50 per senior party/night available between Labour Day and June 14th.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/little_qualicum_falls/#VehicleAccessibleCamping
Campground Map: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/little_qualicum_falls/lit_qualicum.pdf?v=1648230010552
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/TvvQGDErQ6SRsAme7

Spring Salmon Place Campground, Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Sooke Potholes Regional Park has been a favourite swimming hole for kids in Sooke and the Capital Regional District for generations, even before the area officially became a CRD municipal park in 2005. It’s wonderful that the District chose to protect this beautiful spot on the Sooke River with its forested hills and unique geological formations of polished rock pools (the “Potholes”), deep gorges and waterfalls.

The campground itself consists of 67 RV and tent sites located at the north end of the park. Some of the sites furthest north have gorgeous riverfront views. The park provides public garbage bins, toilets, a drinking water station and picnic areas. Each campsite has its own firepit and there is firewood available for sale. The facilities are managed by an on-site caretaker. Cellphone reception is unreliable.

Campsites in Spring Salmon place are on the smaller side so may not be appropriate for a large RV. There is no sani-dump onsite – the nearest one is at Sooke River Campground which charges a $10 fee.

The 2022 opening and closing dates have not yet been posted, but the dates are generally mid-May to mid-September. Call the T’Sou-ke Nation (park operators) at 250.642.3957 to confirm. The Spring Salmon Place Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis only. Cost is $25 per party/night.

Website: https://www.tsoukenation.com/sooke-potholes-regional-park-spring-salmon-place-campground/
Campground Map: http://www.tsoukenation.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sooke-potholes-brochure-web-2016.pdf
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/pxWbkBjLJKdR77YE8

Stotz Pool Campground, Cowichan River Provincial Park

If you love outdoor recreation like swimming, kayaking, tubing, or hiking, in a beautiful & peaceful environment, Stotz Pool Campground has what you’re looking for. The Cowichan River is a designated and protected BC Heritage River renowned for its excellent salmon and steelhead fishing. Tubing down the Cowichan River is also a popular pastime on a hot day (if you have no tube and need some guidance you can get both at The Tube Shack in Lake Cowichan). If you love to hike, you’ll enjoy exploring the park’s network of trails including an abandoned rail line and a 20km long riverside footpath.

The campground offers 39 vehicle-accessible sites, 27 of which are reservable with the rest first-come, first-served. Campground amenities include garbage bins, water pumps and pit toilets. Campfire rings are provided for each site with firewood available for purchase from the park operator. The park is currently under a boil water advisory so make sure your fresh water tank is topped up before you arrive.

There is little to no cellphone coverage at the campground. The nearest available sani-dump is the Lake Cowichan Municipal Sani Dump Station, available by donation.

Stolz Pool Campground is open year-round for camping, with reservations accepted between May 14th & September 4th. The fee to camp here is $20 per party/night, with a senior rate of $10.00 per senior party/night available between Labour Day and June 14th.

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/cowichan_rv/#VehicleAccessibleCamping
Campground Map: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/cowichan_rv/cowichan-river.pdf
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/RE1CS9HeNyaMkZFL7

The post Roughing It RV-Style: Off-Grid Camping on Vancouver Island appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

One of the best things about travelling is the opportunity to try new restaurants and cuisines. We Vancouver Islanders love our food fresh and local, and we know a good dish when we taste it! So even though Nanaimo may be a smaller-sized city, it has no shortage of fantastic places to eat. We hope you’re hungry… because here is a list of six of our very favourite Harbour City dining establishments.

Vietnamese

Huong Lan

This family-owned restaurant is a go-to place for fresh and tasty Vietnamese food. Many guests proclaim this to be the best Vietnamese – or even Asian – place on the Island. This place is especially recommended for soup fans! The pho is outstanding, with the savoury broth warming you from inside out, and the won ton soup with its crunchy broccoli, crisp beansprouts and amazing won tons is a must-try. Expect quick, excellent service and a spotlessly clean dining environment.

We recommend:
Won ton soup; spicy hue soup; grilled pork, pork patty, spring rolls & vermicelli noodle combo

Website: https://lanfood.ca
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/2V2AqKQqs93vd83E9

Mediterranean

Asteras Greek Taverna

Asteras Greek Taverna is widely considered by locals to be one of Nanaimo’s best dining experiences. Enjoy delicious Crete-style Greek food in the cozy, romantic atmosphere of a converted heritage house. A read-through of online reviews will reveal that, food aside, the Taverna’s greatest attraction is its warm and welcoming staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home. Voted “Best Restaurant Overall”, “Best Romantic Restaurant” and “Best Mediterranean Food” in Nanaimo’s 2020 Best of the City Awards, Astera’s is also currently the top-rated Nanaimo restaurant on Trip Advisor. If you’re visiting Nanaimo and you love Greek food, you’d do yourself a disservice if you missed visiting this Nanaimo landmark. Reservations are recommended at peak times.

We recommend:
Avgolemono (creamy lemon chicken soup) dolmades, moussaka, roast lamb

Website: http://www.asteras.ca
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/MN9dcdQzm2T8sMvR6

Korean

Kim’s Korean BBQ House

If you’re in the mood for something with a spicy kick to wake up your senses, Korean BBQ is always a solid bet. This local favourite is known for serving up authentic Korean favourites in a clean, friendly environment. Their attention to detail is evident in the lack of cheap wooden chopsticks – stainless steel only here. Prices are quite reasonable for the amount of food you get. Meals are served with delicious sides such as kimchi, pickled onions, sweet potato salad and pickled veggies. If you visit Kim’s in the evening, be prepared for a bit of a wait as this place is popular!

We recommend:
Pork bulgogi, pajeon (seafood pancake), doenjang stew, kimchi mandoo (dumplings)

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kimskoreanbbqhouse
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/UfiFbVsFCQYXZZzd9

Mexican

Jalapenos Mexican Food

Fantasizing about a streetside taco stand in Puerto Vallarta? Nanaimo locals know where to go for the most authentic Mexican food in town: Jalapenos. Small and unpretentious, this cheerful, family-owned restaurant offers homestyle Mexican delicacies at great prices. The service is friendly and helpful. If you’re following a special diet, Jalapenos has labelled their menu for dietary restrictions and there are lots of vegetarian options available. Best of all, Saturday and Sunday are all-you-can-eat taco buffet days!

We recommend:
Al pastor burrito, drowned tacos, fresh salsa & chips

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/jalapenosmexicanfoodnanaimo
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/t3B3nXDy6LsojL3AA

Farm to Table

Gabriel’s Gourmet Cafe

While Gabriel’s is not the cheapest food option in town, if you’re looking for fresh, local food served fast, Gabriel’s is your place. If you care about where your food comes from, you’ll feel good knowing that all Gabriel’s meats and eggs, and as much produce as possible, are sourced from local, small, sustainable farms. Locals highly recommend Gabriel’s for breakfast, so if you are a lover of excellent bennies and scrambles, definitely give them a try. The rice bowls are delicious, and if you’re watching your carbs you can sub in cauliflower rice for an extra charge. Vegetarians and vegans will be pleased to see a wide array of plant-based options. If you’d like to give something back to the community, you can buy a “Dining With Dignity” token with your meal, which provides a free bowl of soup to a person in need.

We recommend:
The Mt Benny, butter chicken rice bowl, fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice

Website: http://www.gabrielscafe.ca
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/nVDH3tVEJGs2yiK89

Japanese

Nori Japanese Restaurant

Nanaimo’s most popular sushi restaurant has a well-earned reputation for world-class excellence. The food is not only mouth-wateringly good but beautifully served following the traditional Japanese art of plating. Their attention to detail is second to none, and your teacup will never be empty. The menu is large and unique, with a slight fusion twist – meaning you’ll find dishes here that you wouldn’t find in your average Japanese food place. Lovers of sake will appreciate the drink menu stacked with premium sakes, with a flight of four available for $25. For some extra entertainment, take a seat at the sushi bar and watch them at work. Nori Japanese restaurant is currently rated the #2 restaurant in Nanaimo on Trip Advisor. Expect waits; reservations definitely recommended. Note that this restaurant is on the noisy side, so if you’re sensitive, try takeout.

We recommend:
Lobster tail miso soup, island fever roll, tuna pesto aburi oshi, any of the sashimi

Website: https://www.nanaimonori.com
Map: https://g.page/nanaimonori?share

The post Noshing in Nanaimo: The Harbour City’s Top Eats appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.

Wild Pacific Trail

Hiking this spectacular trail is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Ucluelet’s rugged coastline. The area has its own unique landscape and ecology, different from anything you’d see in Tofino. The path is built as close as possible to the shoreline and on windy days you can feel the spray of the surf on your face. The trail has different sections of varying length. The full “Lighthouse Loop” is an easy 2.6km trail that you can start from one of three parking lots. (There is designated RV parking at the Lighthouse Loop parking lot located off Coast Guard road.) There are also three smaller interpretive trails off Lighthouse Loop: The Bog Loop, Terrace Beach First Nations Trail, and Spring Cove Mudflats trail. Other areas of the trail include Big Beach Children’s Interpretive Trail, Ancient Cedars and Rocky Bluffs, and the Artists Loops. Website: https://www.wildpacifictrail.com/home.html Trail Map: https://www.wildpacifictrail.com/pdf/brochure.pdf

Currents Restaurant at Black Rock Resort

Enjoy incredible vistas of the wild Pacific Ocean from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Currents Restaurant in Black Rock Resort. Overlooking the Wild Pacific Trail between Big Beach and Brown’s Beach, this world-class resort is renowned for its excellent storm-watching opportunities in winter. Enjoy delicious food such as fresh-caught salmon, house-made gnocchi and flat-iron steak, all beautifully plated and served in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. If you happen to be staying at the resort, they also offer a delicious breakfast menu with a variety of smoothies, bennies, and other healthy (and not-so-healthy) options. Go for the view; stay for the food! Website: https://www.blackrockresort.com/dining/ Map: https://goo.gl/maps/xdUdwTt95KwmSWvC8

Ukee Days

Ukee Days is a 3-day annual festival celebrating everything Ucluelet! It features a variety of entertainment including logger sports demonstrations, live music and performances, local food and retail vendors, a unique parade, beer gardens, and West Coast BBQ. The whole family is sure to love watching the weird and wonderful Ukee Days’ contests such as the Pudding Eating Contest, Ukee Days Keg Toss and the Wheelbarrow Wobble Races. The 2022 Ukee Days are scheduled for July 22-24, so if you happen to be camping nearby, you should definitely check it out! Friday events take place at the Ucluelet Village Green next to the District Office, while Saturday’s festivities are held at the fairgrounds at 160 Seaplane Base Road. Website: https://ukeedays.wordpress.com

Ucluelet Aquarium

If you’re visiting Ucluelet between March 1st and November 30th, don’t miss the chance to visit Canada’s first collect-and-release aquarium! The residents of this special aquarium change frequently as new specimens are brought in and the critters collected earlier in the season are released back to their natural habitats. On any given day you can expect to see a variety of local sea life including sea urchins, rockfish, sea cucumbers, crabs, jellyfish, sculpins, perch, squat lobsters, feather duster tubeworms and maybe even an octopus. The aquarium has a special focus on raising awareness about local marine biodiversity and promoting respect for the ocean environment and frequently participates in local scientific surveys on the health of Pacific ocean ecosystems. They also offer a number of special programs including scheduled talks at local parks and beaches. If you’re arriving in your RV, you can park it at the free parking lot located on Cedar road across from the RCMP station. Website: ​​https://uclueletaquarium.org Map: https://goo.gl/maps/BD1NHp8YdMDiJAVn8

The Blue Room

All this fresh Ucluelet air is bound to make you hungry. How about a big brunch where the locals eat? Even if you wake up late, don’t worry – they serve breakfast all day. Enjoy a filling meal made with fresh local ingredients, served in the dining room or on their large patio overlooking the harbour. Offerings include the “Ukee-Ranian Breakfast” with perogies, whale-shaped pancakes for kids, and rotating drink specials such as Waffle Mimosas and Charcuterie Caesars. At the Blue Room Bistro, they promise you’ll Come Hungry, Leave Stuffed! Website: https://www.facebook.com/theblueroombistro Map: https://goo.gl/maps/hh2w3zLY15r6VMvA8

Bonus: Protect the Clayoquot Wilderness

If you love the wild West Coast as much as we do, you might like to learn more about the fauna and flora of Clayoquot UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Check out the following two organizations for a ton of educational materials about these precious, threatened ecosystems, and find out what you can do to help preserve them for future generations. Rainforest Education Society – https://raincoasteducation.org Friends of Clayoquot Sound – https://focs.ca

The post Tofino Treasures & Awesome Ucluelet – Part Two: Ucluelet appeared first on Pacific RV Ventures.