 Campbell River Travel Guide
Situated on the east coast of central Vancouver Island, and long known as the Salmon Capital of the World, Campbell River is a natural destination, in more ways than one.
Capture the spirit of Campbell River by taking a stroll in sea breezes on Discovery Pier and you just might see salmon, eagles, or whales. Take in views of Discovery Passage, Quadra Island and, in the distance, the rugged Coast Mountain range of the mainland British Columbia. Discover trails along Campbell River's namesake, a designated British Columbia Heritage River. Restore your soul amidst rivers and lakes in forests kept green by the mild coastal climate.
For thousands of years, from the time of First Nations' villages to the arrival of European explorers and eventually permanent settlement, the rhythm of life in Campbell River has flowed with the movement of the salmon.
In Campbell River, you're not just watching the drama unfold; you're part of it! As the sun rises over British Columbia's Coast Mountain ranges, the coastline of Discovery Passage comes to life. Just a short ferry ride across the water, Quadra and neighboring islands awaken under a blanket of firs and cedars. Cape Mudge’s lighthouse blinks warnings to seafaring passers-by. When high tide approaches, yachts, fish boats, tugs, freighters, and enormous Alaska-bound cruise ships line up to navigate Seymour Narrows' waters. In Campbell River, you can enjoy this constantly changing panorama from the seaside walkways, restaurants and accommodations.
Homebound salmon navigate their way through Discovery Passage on their final journey to the spawning grounds. The salmon's life cycle of hatching, feeding in the river, traveling to the ocean and eventually returning to its birth river, attracts and sustains a wide variety of wildlife such as bears, eagles, whales, otters, ravens and others.
Campbell River's salmon keep time with the flow of the tides and the seasons too. Every fall, when salmon head upstream to spawn, eagles, bears and other wildlife join in their quest for survival. Only at times like these are these wonders of the wild in such close contact with each other. At a distance, you too can be there, whether walking amidst the falling maple leaves at Quinsam River Hatchery, or for an unforgettable thrill try snorkeling with the salmon as they enter the Campbell River.
No matter what the season, observe the life cycle of Campbell River's superb salmon. Just visit a local waterway, such as Haig-Brown Kingfisher Creek, that hosts salmon enrichment and stewardship programs. With legacy projects like these, sport fishing continues to attract tourists to the region. Best of all, in Campbell River you don't even need a boat-just cast your line off Discovery Pier and maybe you will hook the big one! Or challenge the odds, and go home a member of the famous Tyee Club, a Campbell River tradition since 1925, and a true test of angling skill.
True to its heritage, Campbell River hosts a busy arts and culture scene. Stop by the community theatre, public art gallery, or the many local shops that feature works by local artists, including authentic First Nations' art, jewelry, and carvings. Step back in history at the Campbell River and Kwagiulth museums. Browse First Nations' treasures, take in a cultural performance let yourself be swept away.
Campbell River is also your gateway to outdoor recreation and eco-touring. For summertime isolation, or winter snow activities, venture into Strathcona Provincial Park, where the mountains draw climbers, heli-skiers, mountain bikers and other enthusiasts from around the globe. Continue into remote reaches of North or West Vancouver Island. Head offshore to the Discovery Islands' region for whale watching, kayaking, and other unparalleled wilderness opportunities.
Also see Activities in Campbell River
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