British Columbia is a paradise for overlanders, offering a vast range of campgrounds suited for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for remote wilderness camping, well-equipped provincial parks, or private campgrounds with full amenities, BC has something for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of campgrounds in British Columbia, helping you choose the best option for your next adventure.
Recreational Sites, commonly known as Rec Sites, range from simple, undeveloped
Rec Site
campsites to more structured areas with basic facilities. These sites are ideal for those seeking a rustic camping experience away from the crowds.
Found across the province in forests, near lakes, and in remote areas
Often free or require a small fee/donation (cash only)
Operate on a first-come, first-served basis
Ideal for hiking, fishing, boating, and off-grid camping
👉 Tip: Some Rec Sites are managed and may require payment, while others remain completely free.
Provincial Parks (BC Parks) – Scenic & Well-Maintained Campgrounds
BC Parks manages over 1,000 provincial parks and protected areas, many of which have designated campsites with:
BC Park campground
✅ Fire pits & picnic tables ✅ Basic washroom facilities ✅ Scenic locations near mountains, lakes, and forests
Some of the most popular provincial park campgrounds include: 🌲 Garibaldi Provincial Park – Alpine lakes & breathtaking hikes 🏕 Manning Park – Family-friendly camping with lots of trails ⛰ Mount Robson Provincial Park – Gateway to the Berg Lake Trail
💡 Reservations: Provincial park campsites require advance reservations (up to 4 months in advance). Book early!
National Parks – Iconic Camping in BC’s Wildest Landscapes
Managed by Parks Canada, BC’s national parks provide both front-country and backcountry camping. These parks offer:
Green Point Campground – Pacific Rim
Well-maintained sites with fire pits, washrooms, and bear-proof storage
Unparalleled scenery with hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing
Backcountry camping for those looking for off-grid adventure
🏞 Top National Parks for Camping in BC: ✔ Pacific Rim National Park Reserve – Coastal rainforest & beachside camping ✔ Yoho National Park – Waterfalls, turquoise lakes & mountain trails
💡 Reservations Required: Book campsites through Parks Canada well in advance.
Commercial Campgrounds – Full-Service Comfort
Private campgrounds across BC offer a more comfortable camping experience, often featuring: ✅ RV hookups & electrical connections ✅ Shower & laundry facilities ✅ Convenience stores & recreational activities
🔎 Best for: Families, RV travelers, and those wanting easy access to amenities.
⚠ Downside: Some private campgrounds resemble parking lots with little privacy. Prices can also be higher than provincial parks.
🏕 Example:Salmon Point Resort – A coastal campground with full amenities.
💡 Reservations Required: Due to high demand, book your spot well in advance!
First Nations Campgrounds – Cultural & Nature Experiences
Several Indigenous communities in BC operate First Nations campgrounds, offering unique cultural experiences alongside camping. Many of these sites incorporate: 🪶 Traditional storytelling & cultural programs 🌲 Scenic landscapes with rich history
For overlanders looking for free camping, BC offers boondocking or dispersed camping areas. These sites:
Boondocking in BC
Have no amenities (true off-grid experience)
Are located in Crown land
Require self-sufficiency & Leave No Trace practices
🚐 Tip: Always check local regulations before setting up camp on Crown land.
Plan Your Ultimate Overlanding Adventure
BC offers endless camping opportunities—whether you’re looking for family-friendly campgrounds, rugged backcountry sites, or full-service RV resorts.
At Maple Overland, we help you plan the perfect road trip itinerary tailored to your adventure style. After booking, we’ll send you a short questionnaire to customize your trip based on: ✔ Your experience level ✔ Who you’re traveling with ✔ Your must-see destinations
British Columbia is famous for its rich gold rush history, particularly in regions like the Cariboo and Fraser River. Today, adventure seekers can still experience the thrill of gold panning in BC’s many designated recreational gold panning reserves—no license required!
Discovering Gold While Overlanding in BC
Whenever I’m out exploring BC in a fully equipped Jeep from Maple Overland, I make a stop at nearby gold panning reserves to try my luck. And guess what? Every single time, I’ve found gold! While it’s often just a tiny gold flake, the experience is always exciting and rewarding.
Gold panning isn’t just about striking it rich – it’s about the adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery of British Columbia. The excitement of uncovering a shiny flake or even a small nugget makes it a must-try activity when overlanding through BC.
Gold Panning with Maple Overland – Your Adventure Awaits
Want to experience gold panning yourself? Each Jeep rental from Maple Overland includes a gold pan! Whether you’re a first-time panner or an experienced prospector, this activity adds an extra layer of excitement to your overlanding journey.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you enjoy a successful and memorable gold panning experience in BC.
Gold Panning Basics
Gold panning is a simple yet effective method of extracting gold from gravel and sediment. The technique works because gold is much denser than other materials, causing it to sink while lighter debris washes away.
Gold Pan: Your Essential Tool
A shallow, wide pan with a flat bottom and sloped sides.
Available in plastic (lighter and easier to handle) or metal.
How to Pan for Gold
Gather Material – Use the shovel (included with each Jeep) to collect sediment from a riverbed, focusing on inside bends and behind rocks, where gold naturally settles.
Classify the Material – Remove larger rocks and debris, leaving finer sediment in your pan.
Fill Your Pan – Fill your pan about one-third full with gravel.
Add Water – Submerge your pan in water, ensuring the material is wet.
Shake the Pan – Gently shake the pan to help gold settle to the bottom.
Wash Away Lighter Materials – Tilt the pan and allow water to gradually wash off lighter sediments while keeping heavier particles (including gold) at the bottom.
Repeat – Continue this process until you are left with a small amount of heavy material, where gold may be found.
Top Recreational Gold Panning Sites in British Columbia (No License Required!)
BC offers several recreational gold panning reserves where anyone can try their luck without needing a permit. Some of the best locations include:
Hope
Lytton
Quesnel
Yale Town
Lillooet
Kennedy River (Pacific Rim Highway)
These areas have a rich history of gold mining and continue to produce gold for modern – day prospectors.
Responsible & Eco-Friendly Gold Panning
While gold panning is an exciting activity, it’s important to protect BC’s natural environment:
Follow Leave No Trace principles – Take only what you need and leave nature undisturbed.
Avoid disturbing riverbeds excessively – Be mindful of fragile ecosystems.
Pack out all trash – Keep BC’s landscapes pristine.
Gold Panning Tips for Beginners
✔ Be Patient – Gold panning requires time and persistence. Even if you don’t strike it rich, the experience is well worth it!
✔ Stay Safe – Watch for slippery rocks, fast currents, and deep water. If possible, pan with a buddy.
✔ Enjoy the Journey – Whether you find gold flakes, nuggets, or just great memories, gold panning is a fun, rewarding activity in BC’s stunning wilderness.
What to Bring for a Gold Panning Adventure
When heading out for a gold panning trip in BC, pack these essentials:
Gold pan (included in every Jeep rental!)
Shovel (also included!)
Sun protection – Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
Water & snacks – Stay hydrated and energized
Camera – Capture the beautiful scenery and your gold finds
Comfortable clothing – Dress in layers; BC’s weather can change quickly
Plan Your Gold Panning & Trip with Maple Overland
At Maple Overland, we specialize in creating the perfect adventure travel itinerary for your BC exploration. When you book a Jeep with us, we’ll send you a short questionnaire to understand your travel preferences, outdoor experience, and trip goals. This allows us to customize your perfect overlanding route—because there’s no one-size-fits-all adventure!
British Columbia is one of the top overlanding destinations in North America, offering an extensive network of 60,000+ kilometers of backroads and countless wild camping opportunities across six diverse regions. Whether you’re looking for rugged mountain trails, remote coastal escapes, or off-grid wilderness camping, BC has it all.
The 6 Best Overlanding Regions in British Columbia
6 regions of British Columbia
Vancouver Coast & Mountains
Vancouver Island
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
Northern B.C.
Kootenay Rockies
Thompson Okanagan
1. Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Garibaldi Lake
The region BC’s most visited region is situated in southwestern BC between the ocean and mountains. Sunshine Coast with towns like Powell River, Sechelt and Gibsons mark the western side. Hope, Boston Bar and Lillooet cover the east. Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton are some of the must-visit towns, known for their outdoor opportunities in the surrounding backcountry. These towns and cities are surrounded by rugged mountains with snow-capped peaks, rainforests, fjords, rivers and many lakes. Some popular overlanding areas are: the Sunshine Coast, the area around Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park and Harrison Lake. But it can be busy though, because these places are close to Vancouver Metro.
Wildlife: Some wild animals you can encounter: humpback and killer whales, eagles, and black bears.
Outdoor activities: Here are some examples of what’s in store for those exploring the area’s natural surroundings; you can enjoy ocean kayaking in the morning, alpine skiing in the afternoon and finish the day with a plunge in one of the natural hot springs. Many of the numerous trails in the area can be enjoyed by foot or by bike. Also think of: rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, paragliding, heli-biking, ziplining and bungee jumping.
Wild Camping near Vancouver
In Vancouver, highlights like Granville Island, downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park should be on your to-see list when staying in the city. 1 or 2 days should be enough to see all the hotspots.
The further you get from Vancouver, the more opportunities you have when it comes to exploring forest service roads by 4×4. Many backcountry roads lead you to a variety of breathtaking destinations, from rainforests to waterfalls, viewpoints and lakeside campsites. Just be mindful of logging traffic and if possible, avoid the active logging roads. This of course goes for everywhere in BC.
2. Vancouver Island
The region: Vancouver Island is located off BC’s south western coast. Vancouver Island is renowned for its old grown rainforest and diverse and wild backcountry.
Bear cub
Victoria, Nanaimo and Campbell River are popular places for whale watching, fishing trips and waterplane tours to remote island communities.
Wildlife: Overlanders come here to see whales, black bears and eagles, wild salmon and even rarely seen, cougars may occasionally seen when hiking.
Outdoor activities: Where do we start? The West Coast Trail is a multi-day backcountry hike spanning 75 kilometres/46 miles along the west shoreline of Vancouver Island. Many kayak or canoe trips, salmon fishing, communities to discover, surfing at Tofino. Tofino is an idyllic town on Vancouver Island and is one of the world’s prime cold-water surf spots.
When it comes to outdoor recreation, there is not much you can’t do on Vancouver Island.
The experience with driving on backroads is different than on the main land. The logging companies have established gates on many logging roads and this created restrictions in accessing remote places. Despite many gates, enough of the Island’s backroads are still open and lead to free camping sites, lakes, big tree groves and waterfalls. Popular to explore are the logging roads south of Cowichan Lake.
Long Beach – Tofino, Vancouver Island
3. Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
The region: Exploring the backroads of the Cariboo Chilcotin region is a forever lasting experience. From the Pacific Great Bear Rainforests coast to the vast Chilcotin plateau which unfolds towards the impressive Cariboo mountains. Cariboo Chilcotin has a sense of adventure, of leaving behind one world and entering another. Endless forests, hidden lakes, secret valleys, cascading waterfalls, gold rush ghost towns and First Nations cultural sites are just some of the treasures you can find while exploring.
Cariboo Chilcotin is a low populated density region, with roughly 0.7 people per square kilometre. Most of the population is found in the cities of Williams Lake, Quesnel and 100 Mile House, all situated along Highway 97, which connects Vancouver Coast with Northern BC. Without a doubt, our favorite area to explore is Chilcotin Plateau.
Barkerville
Wildlife: Wild horses, Orca’s, whales, Spirit bears, Grizzly bears and Black bears.
Outdoor activities: Experience gold rush history, travel the Cariboo Wagon Road and follow the footsteps of early explorers. Get back to nature with hiking and mountain biking or take a horseback ride through alpine meadows. Drop a line in local lakes for the chance to catch fresh fish. All in all there are so many things to undertake.
4. Northern BC
Wood bison in Northern BC
The region: THERE IS NOTHING ELSE THAN WILDERNESS IN NORTHERN BC! While the entire region is fairly remote, once you head to backroads passed Prince George you enter a truly wild land and backroads that stretch into the distance without a soul in sight. You will pass some small communities but it’s the surrounding wilderness that dominates the north. It is also home to several Indigenous communities, whose cultures and traditions add to the region’s unique character.
One of the advantages that Northern BC is, you never have to drive long before you find a nice, secluded camping spot by a lake or a creek.
Northern BC
Wildlife: It is almost impossible not to observe wildlife as you travel through the North, the so-called ‘Serengeti of North America.’ Mountain goats, bison, moose, elk, caribou, wolves, coyotes, foxes, grizzly bears, and black bears often to be seen alongside roads, foraging for food. Be careful when driving these roads, especially at night.
Outdoor activities: Northern BC is one massive playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and you don’t have to venture far from the beaten path to find remote wilderness adventures. Kayak, Canoeing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, rock climbing are just a few of the many outdoor activities that Northern BC has to offer.
5. Kootenay Rockies
Home to big mountains, deep valleys and crystal-clear lake and rivers, the Kootenay Rockies, in the southeast corner of BC, is one of BC’s best kept outdoor region. As you explore the backroads by 4×4, you will be tempted to make a lot of stops along the way. The region is full of natural attractions including caves, waterfalls and hot springs, not to mention the scenic lookouts that will have you grab your camera.
The region: In the east, the Kootenay Rockies embrace the Canadian Rocky Mountains where the landscape doesn’t change much. In the west, the Kootenays transition into the wide valleys of the Okanagan. Here you can enjoy scenery in privacy without the crowds like the more popular tourist destinations in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
One of many natural hot springs in bc
A long history of logging and mining has created a massive network of backroads which are dotted with recreation sites, ghost towns, old mine sites and secluded hot springs.
The Kootenays’ human history includes thousands of years of First Nations habitation, evidenced by pictographs and archeological sites, as well as a colourful history of European settlement beginning with the wild-west style gold rush of the 1860s. Large-scale mining and the spread of the railroad opened up the Kootenays in the 1890s, and many remains of this industrial boom can still be seen as you travel the winding highways and side roads of the area.
Wildlife: Deer and elk are common throughout the region. Grizzly and black bear roam the mountains—keep your eyes open for these and mountain goats, bighorn sheep and countless birds too! The presence of Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout, Brook Char and Kokanee enhance recreational fishing opportunities.
Outdoor activities: Summer activities feature high alpine hiking, glacier viewing, the Golden Skybridge, rafting, kayaking and SUP boarding on one of the many lakes.
The Thompson Okanagan name represents two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake.
Endless backroads to explore
The region: The Thompson-Okanagan Region is nestled in the southern interior of British Columbia. Major cities include Kelowna, Kamloops, Vernon, and Merritt. The region has a human history dating back over 10,000 years and is rich with Indigenous history and culture.
Thompson Okanagan has rare and unique grassland ecosystems, wet mountain ranges, and some of the driest places in Canada. Major lakes and rivers include Adam’s Lake, Shuswap Lake, Thompson River, Similkameen River, and Nicola River. The Adam’s River supports the second largest sockeye salmon run in British Columbia.
But there is more to this land than just big lakes and big beaches. It is home to the most famous section of one of Canada’s best-known multi-use trails, the Kettle Valley Railway. And no visit to the Thompson Okanagan would be complete without sampling the wine and fresh fruit for which the region is world-famous. There are countless wineries and fruit stands found right along the major roads.
Wildlife: Small mammals, including marmots, beavers, and chipmunks, share the wilderness areas with black bears, mule deer, and coyotes. Moose too, but they are seldom seen.
Enjoy breathtaking views by seaplane
Outdoor activities: From the impressive Myra Canyon Trestles to the Mascot Gold Mine built high above the small, picturesque town of Hedley, this is a place where history comes to life. There are many ghost towns and old cemeteries scattered throughout the region. Next to exploring the backcountry by Maple Overland Jeeps, it is an absolute must to set aside time for beautiful day hike. The Thompson Okanagan region is rich in gold mining and railroad history, and there are many remnants of this bygone era to be found.
Overlanding is a truly unforgettable experience that combines adventure and relaxation. At Maple Overland we rent out Jeep Wrangler 4-doors, packed with iKamper rooftop tents and all the camping gear you need to explore the wild backcountry of our Province as comfortably as possible. Experience sleeping in a rooftop tent under the stars, build your own campfire and prepare your delicious camping meal while enjoying a gorgeous sunset. Our fully equipped expedition 4×4’s come with everything you need to enjoy your B.C. adventure.
Plan Your 4×4 Adventure with Maple Overland
At Maple Overland, we help you create a custom overlanding itinerary tailored to your travel style, experience level, and interests. After booking, you’ll complete a quick questionnaire about your outdoor experience, travel group, and adventure preferences. This allows us to craft the ultimate BC road trip—because no single route fits every explorer.
While most travelers flock to popular destinations like Jasper and Banff in the Canadian Rockies, the true adventurers
Squamish, BC – Whitehorse, Yukon
seek out the more remote and untamed landscapes of Canada. One such hidden gem is the legendary Squamish to Whitehorse route—a breathtaking journey through British Columbia and into the Yukon.
An Epic Drive from Squamish to Whitehorse
Covering nearly 2,300 km (1,429 miles), this road trip is no small feat. However, the rewards are immense, as you traverse some of the most spectacular and untouched regions of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. Along the way, you’ll witness majestic mountain landscapes, historic Gold Rush sites, and an abundance of wildlife—from grizzlies and moose to bison and eagles.
Must-See Highlights Along the Route
1. The Coast Mountains & Southern Cariboo: The Start of an Adventure
Sea to Sky Highway (BC Highway 99)
Your journey begins on the world-famous Sea to Sky Highway, an awe-inspiring coastal route stretching from Vancouver to Whistler.
Quiet campspot along Highway 99
Along the way, you’ll pass through Howe Sound inlet, islands, towering peaks, and multiple provincial parks. Key stops include:
Squamish – The adventure capital of Canada, known for rock climbing, hiking, and the breathtaking Shannon Falls.
Whistler – A world-renowned ski resort and outdoor paradise with countless trails and alpine lakes.
Pemberton – A picturesque village surrounded by rugged peaks, perfect for a quick stop before continuing north.
Beyond Pemberton, Highway 99 takes you deeper into the wild, passing Lillooet Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Duffey Lake Provincial Park, Marble Canyon, and Lillooet—all offering incredible scenic views and outdoor activities.
2. Cariboo Region: Following the Historic Gold Rush Trail
After Highway 99, the route continues on Highway 97, known as the Cariboo Highway, which takes you through a diverse landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, canyons, and river valleys. Must-visit locations include:
Historic site Barkerville, BC
Bowron Lake Provincial Park – A haven for canoeing and wildlife spotting.
Green Lake – A stunning turquoise lake, perfect for a scenic break.
Barkerville – A well-preserved Gold Rush town that takes you back to the 1860s.
Prince George – The largest city in northern BC, offering great dining and cultural attractions
3. Northern BC: The Gateway to the Yukon
Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway)
Northern BC camp spot
Northwest BC is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Highway 16 connects communities while winding through towering forests, rugged mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and rushing rivers. Top stops include:
Smithers – A charming alpine town with excellent hiking trails on Hudson Bay Mountain.
Terrace & the Skeena River – A stunning region known for world-class fishing and breathtaking landscapes.
The Cassiar Highway (Highway 37)
One of the most remote and scenic highways in BC, the Cassiar Highway takes you through dense wilderness, untouched lakes, and rugged mountain terrain. This 725 km (450 miles) stretch is a prime wildlife viewing area, where you might spot bears, moose, caribou, and eagles.
Boya Lakes NP
Highlights include:
Boya Lake Provincial Park – Crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking.
Jade City – A quirky roadside stop famous for its jade deposits.
4. Entering the Yukon: The Final Leg to Whitehorse
The Alaska Highway (Yukon Highway 1)
The last stretch from Watson Lake to Whitehorse follows the iconic Alaska Highway, spanning approximately 454 km (282 miles). Notable sights along the way:
Sign Post Forest
Watson Lake Sign Post Forest – A fascinating landmark featuring over 80,000 signs left by travelers from around the world.
Rancheria Falls – A short boardwalk trail leading to picturesque waterfalls.
Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre – Showcasing Indigenous carvings, beadwork, and local art.
Miles Canyon & Schwatka Lake – A scenic drive just before reaching Whitehorse.
Exploring Whitehorse: The Heart of the Yukon
Congratulations—you made it to Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory! Despite its small size, this city of 30,000 residents offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Top attractions include:
SS Klondike in Whitehorse
Yukon Wildlife Preserve – An opportunity to see the Yukon’s diverse wildlife up close.
MacBride Museum – A deep dive into the Gold Rush history and Indigenous heritage.
SS Klondike – A well-preserved historic Gold Rush-era riverboat.
Miles Canyon & endless hiking trails – Discover the breathtaking landscapes that surround Whitehorse.
We help you creating a free road trip plan to explore BC and a part of Yukon efficiently while allowing time for exploring and sightseeing.
So, book your trip and let us do the planning – this is going to be the journey of a lifetime!
Keep in mind that the one-way Squamish – Whitehorse trips can only take place in the months of May, June and September. In addition to the Jeep rental (minimum 11 days), a one-way rental fee of $899 will be added to your reservation.
Free road trip plan
At Maple Overland, we are happy to help you create your ideal adventure travel itinerary. After booking, you will receive a small questionnaire which tells us a bit about your travel preferences, what your outdoor experience is, who you are traveling with, and which wishes you have for your trip. This way we can help you explore British Columbia more efficiently. After all, 1 perfect travel route that fits everyone doesn’t exist.
Get ready to hit the road and experience the wild beauty of British Columbia and the Yukon!
Article: We Went Off-Grid Camping in a Jeep With a Rooftop Tent
The wheels of the Jeep crunched over the rocky, uneven terrain with ease as we pulled into our off-grid campsite. The mighty Squamish River rushed alongside the sandy bank we’d decided to call home for the night—a unique freedom made possible by our Maple Overland Jeep with a rooftop tent.
Based in Squamish, BC, Maple Overland rents fully equipped 4×4 Jeeps with iKamper rooftop tents, big enough for three adults or two adults and two children. My partner Tavis and I were ready for a long weekend of wilderness adventure. As local outdoor enthusiasts, we figured we knew what was in store for us—but even we were surprised by this epic backcountry experience. More…
British Columbia is one of the world’s great destinations for outdoor adventures. We have selected for you the 5 best outdoor activities in BC that perfectly pair with the Maple Overland adventure experience. From hiking to the Tin Hat mountain cabin to Heli Biking in Whistler, here are five of the best outdoor activities, and decide which one suits your adventure style.
1. Hiking
Lacing up your boots and hitting the trails is a typical British Columbian activity, and you’ll find everything from easy city park trails to physically demanding and multi-day hiking trips across our province.
The landscapes are as varied as the trails: choose from rainforests, mountain meadows, glaciers, prairies, and more. Not just in BC’s national and provincial parks, you will find hiking trails all over BC. Some of our favorite hike trails in our area are: Stawamus Chief trail, Garibaldi Lake, Joffre Lakes, Grouse Grind and the Sunshine Coast Trail Canada’s longest hut-to-hut route. Whatever your interest and ability, you’ll find a trail to match.
Tin Hat Cabin
2. Kayaking
Wherever you are in British Columbia you’ll never be far from water, and one of the best ways to explore is in a kayak. Opportunities for kayaking adventures are abundant across BC.
The coastline is one of the best places for a paddle adventure, with isolated coves, lagoons, inlets full of marine and wildlife and ample opportunities to camp directly on the beach.
If you are looking for a location in the summertime where you can jump off your kayak and take a swim, Desolation Sound is your place. Desolation Sound is a haven because of its unusually warm waters. It also features picturesque scenery including 60 kilometres of coastline, in the shadow of spectacular coastal mountains. If you want to go kayaking, this is an area you don’t want to miss. Our favourite paddling destination on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. We offer a Sea kayak day tour and a 2-day overnight tour. For more information about the kayak tours, click here.
2 days kayak, 1 overnight on an island
3. Rafting
British Columbia is home to hundreds of rivers and rafting is one of many ways to explore the wild beauty our province has to offer. This outdoor experience gives you the opportunity to paddle through glacier-fed waters, connect with nature, and build lasting memories.
River and whitewater rafting trips range from a relaxing float through calm waters to an exhilarating ride through challenging rapids. Go rafting for the day or try a multi-day expedition on one of Canada’s legendary wilderness rivers, including Chilko River, Tatshenshini River, and the Babine River.
We work with Canadian Outback Rafting, a guided whitewater rafting operator who offers day and, multi-day rafting trips. For more information, visit our booking page.
Rafting in BC
4. Historical Mail Flight
The Historic Mail Flight with Corilair Charters is a once in a lifetime adventure experience. Board one of the floatplanes in Campbell River, sit back, and relax as your pilot charts a path through the magnificent Discovery Islands and DesolationSound to deliver mail, supplies, and drop-off/pick-up passengers along the way. During the journey, you will have the chance to get off the plane and explore these remote outposts and experience the unique culture of the islands. While at some of the stops, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with some of the local folks, visit the general stores and see these coastal communities firsthand. Read more.
Explore remote outposts by floatplane
5. Heli Biking
We have some of the best big mountain riding in the world, right here in our backyard, and we invite you to come and experience it!
Whistler’s vast mountain ranges aren’t just for powder seekers. After the snow melts, British Columbia offers some of the best mountain biking in the world. Level up your downhill mountain bike adventures with a heli-biking tour that takes you to one of the speaks with endless trails.
Riders will be flown to the high alpine in a remote area between Whistler and Pemberton. With options for both Advanced and Expert skill levels and a mix of technical and flow trail sections, there is a wide variety for all riders to experience some of Whistler’s best biking.
Depending on the trail choice, bikers can expect to ride 9km to 13km of trail through either 1300 or 1600 meters of elevation drop on this incredible adventure through the Sea-to-Sky backcountry. See more details here.
Traveling through British Columbia with a roof top tent is a great experience for many families. For toddlers (and adults!), sleeping on top of the car in a roof top tent is a fun and adventurous camping experience. It’s almost like sleeping in a tree house with views as far as their eyes can see. If you have a family, this could be a great way to spend a vacation with young kids.
Comfort and plenty of (play) space
Our roof top tents are highly comfortable. The iKamper Skycamp 3.0 has been designed to be pulled out in a matter of seconds, and next to a spacious sleeping and playing area (for 2 adults and 2 young kids, or 3 adults) the tent offers plenty of protection against the elements. Therefore, it isn’t that much of a surprise that these roof top tents can make family camping trips easy and enjoyable.
And if it’s too warm in the tent, you and your kids can still enjoy a fresh breeze through the mesh door and windows when they’re zipped up.
Is it safe for toddlers and children to sleep in a roof top tent?
It’s safe as long as you don’t leave your child alone in the tent. Obviously, in a rooftop tent, the child is going to be up quite high. Whether your kids are hanging out and playing during the day, or snuggling up to go to sleep at night, make sure they stay safe once they’re inside the tent by zipping up the door and windows to the top. For extra safety, we have reusable twist ties available.
Few tips based on our personal experience:
When drivingremember to take regular breaks so that everyone stays refreshed and energized. This will also give the kids a chance to explore during the breaks or just run around and burn off some energy.
Give them tasks to help with the camp setup. It may slow down the process, but it keeps them busy and even toddlers will feel like they are contributing. For instance, they could help with unpacking a box or finding kindling for the campfire.
Tent Games To add to the camping fun, pick up some games that use very few pieces, or play travel games that have magnetic boards to keep the pieces from going everywhere inside the roof top tent. During the campfire is a fun time to play games!
Star Gazing Before bedtime turn off the lights on a star-filled night and together watch for shooting stars. If you want to make this experience extra special, bring a stargazing book that shows you the different constellations and see if you can spot any of them.
Headlamps or flashlights Kids love to sit or walk around the campsite wearing their own headlamps. If they have a flashlight, attach it to a lanyard so they don’t lose it.
Bring their favourite stuffy Sleeping in a roof top tent can be an unusual experience. Make sure your little one(s) feel safe by bringing their trusted stuffed animal(s).
If your kids are outdoor newbies, pitch a tent in the backyard or even inside your home. Let them hang out in it and sleep in it so they become comfortable with a new sleeping environment.
Pack an outdoor rug: to protect and prevent injuries from the surface, for safety to avoid slips and falls, and add storage boxes for a playground element.
It’s never too early to start overlanding with your kids. At Maple Overland we rent out 4×4’s with roof top tents and all the camping gear you need as a family to explore British Columbia as comfortably as possible. Click herefor some inspirational overlanding pics.
Overlanding is a unique and exciting way to explore the natural beauty of British Columbia. B.C. is a province located in the western part of Canada and is known for its diverse landscapes. From alpine mountains, to vast rainforests, pristine lakes, and untouched beaches, B.C. offers an incredible range of natural wonders for exploration and adventure.
Here are 5 facts about overlanding in British Columbia
The province is home to a wide variety of animals, including black bears, grizzly bears, moose, deer, and wolves. It’s not uncommon to spot these animals while overlanding. Observing them in their natural habitat can be a truly unforgettable experience.
British Columbia is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a perfect destination for overlanding enthusiasts. The province has thousands of kilometers of hiking trails, lakes for fishing and kayaking, natural hot springs, mountains for climbing. There’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.
The self-sufficiency aspect of overlanding is also a major part of why it is so much fun. Maple Overland vehicles are equipped with everything you need to be self-sufficient, including large roof top tent, all kitchen utensils and other camping gear to enjoy your 4×4 adventure as comfortable as possible. We will help you to be completely independent and truly immerse yourself in our backcountry and to spend quality time with your loved ones, away from daily life distractions. You can travel to remote areas and camp in complete peace and solitude, which is a truly unique and fulfilling experience.
Cultural experiences: British Columbia is home to a rich cultural heritage, including First Nations communities with a long and proud history. Overlanding allows you to visit communities or a cultural centre, their traditions and culture are an eye opener and inspiring.
Another aspect of overlanding in British Columbia that makes so enjoyable is the community that comes with it. You will meet other overlanders and share experiences, knowledge, and stories with each other. It’s a fantastic way to make new friends and bond with like-minded individuals.
Finally, overlanding in B.C. is a truly unique way to experience the province. You can get off the beaten path and explore areas that most tourists never see. You can discover hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and remote mountain lakes that are only accessible by 4×4 vehicles. Connect with our backcountry and experience its beauty in a way that is not possible with traditional motorhomes or camper vans.
Overlanding is a truly unforgettable experience that combines adventure and relaxation. At Maple Overland we rent out Jeep Wrangler 4-doors, packed with iKamper rooftop tents and all the camping gear you need to explore the wild backcountry of our Province as comfortably as possible. Experience sleeping in a rooftop tent under the stars, build your own campfire and prepare your delicious camping meal while enjoying a gorgeous sunset. Our fully equipped expedition 4×4’s come with everything you need to enjoy your B.C. adventure. Click here for some overlanding pics and remote camp spots you can visit with our Jeeps.
Like with most outdoor activities in life, you should start by checking the weather forecast for the regions you’re about to visit and think of what kinds of activities you’ll be doing. If you’re staying near the coast or in the mountains, it can get cooler than you’d expect so be ready to layer up. Keep in mind that British Columbia’s weather can change instantly during the off-season. It can be clear and sunny at one point, and snowing or raining the next moment.
Bring duffel bags
Duffel bags are amazing to carry when you’re ‘Jeeping’. They stack easily and are flexible when you throw them on top of one another. That means they’re pretty good at fitting into the space left in the Jeep next to the fridge and our 2 expedition boxes. Having said this, hard case suitcases are definitely a no go.
Clothes to bring
We suggest you should at least bring the garments below:
Socks
Underwear
Base layers (synthetic or wool)
Sports bra
Comfortable short or long t-shirts (cotton is okay) (mid layer)
Sweater
(Quick drying) Shorts and swim shorts
(Quick drying) Pants
Sleepwear
Fleece jacket
Puffy jacket (insulated or down for spring and fall)
Rain jacket
Sun hat or cap
Toque/Beanie and gloves (spring and fall)
Comfortable (waterproof) shoes
Sandals/Flip Flops Also don’t forget…
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Quick drying towel
Biodegradable toilet paper (outdoor friendly)
Biodegradable shower gel
Toiletry bag with your outdoor friendly essentials
Sunscreen (ocean friendly)
Sunglasses
(e)books and magazines
Camera
Chargers for all your electronics
Binoculars
Sleeping bag:
We recommend in summer a ratio between 0°C to 5°C and for fall -9°C to 0°C (if needed, we rent out 5°C sleeping bags)
Headlamps (if needed, we rent out headlamps)
Head net (against nasty mosquitos)
Reusable water bottle
Reusable mug
Bear safety gear (bear spray, flare pen launcher and other essential outdoor gear is available at local outdoor storesin Squamish)
Of course, what you pack is mostly a matter of personal choice, but with this list we hope we gave you a leg up while packing. Have any questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We love the pre-holiday fun just as much as you do, and don’t mind helping you pack for the adventure of your lifetime.
At Maple Overland we rent out overland 4×4 Jeeps, packed with rooftop tent and all the camping gear you need to explore the wild backcountry of British Columbia as comfortably as possible. Experience sleeping in a rooftop tent under the stars, build a campfire and create your own delicious camping food while enjoying a gorgeous sunset. Our fully equipped expedition Jeeps come with everything you need to enjoy your B.C. adventure. See here which gear you get with our Jeeps and read along for tips on what to bring yourself.
Not only we acknowledge that we are privileged to operate and travel on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples – Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations, but we also support the Squamish Lil’wat Culture Centre in Whistler by donating 10 CAD from each booking.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a First Nations’ gallery and museum showcasing West Coast Indigenous art, traditions, culture and historical artifacts in Whistler. Their more than interesting traditions are an eye opener and inspiring on how, even today, we should respect our nature and resources. Definitely a must see for anyone passing by Whistler!
By the donating to The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, this non-profit organization can continue in preserving their artifacts, share their knowledge and traditions, provide educations and support Indigenous communities.
We encourage everyone to respect the unceded territories of Indigenous peoples and to treat it with respect.
