Pacheedaht Campground, located right on the edge of Port Renfrew, is one of the most iconic camping destinations on Vancouver Island. Known for its sprawling sandy shoreline, endless driftwood, and large campsites, it’s a spot that combines the raw beauty of the West Coast with the simple joy of camping by the ocean.
Unlike many forested BC Parks campgrounds, the sites at Pacheedaht are not particularly private. However, what they lack in seclusion, they make up for in size and location. The sites are spacious enough for larger setups, including trailers and family tents, and some sit directly on the ocean. Few places in British Columbia let you wake up to the sound of waves just steps from your tent flap or RV door.
The facilities at Pacheedaht are a mix of rustic and modern. Some areas rely on basic outhouses that are not in the best condition, but the main campground has flush washrooms that are clean and functional. Showers are available for just one loonie, making it easy to freshen up after a day of beach combing. The office adds a touch of convenience, selling snacks and drinks for campers who forgot something or just want a treat.
The real magic of Pacheedaht, though, is the beach itself. Stretching for hours in either direction, the sandy shoreline is one of the longest and most log-strewn beaches our family has ever explored. Towering piles of driftwood line the shore, creating natural forts and climbing structures for kids. Walking along the beach feels like an adventure in itself, with breathtaking views across the Juan de Fuca Strait and a front-row seat to the raw, untamed beauty of Vancouver Island’s West Coast.
How to Get There
Pacheedaht Campground is located in Port Renfrew, about a two-hour drive west of Victoria along Highway 14. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through coastal rain forest and small seaside communities like Sooke and Jordan River before reaching the end of the road in Port Renfrew. From Nanaimo, the drive takes around three and a half hours, cutting through Duncan and Lake Cowichan before connecting to the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Once in Port Renfrew, the campground is easy to find, sitting right on the ocean at the edge of town.
Why Pacheedaht Belongs on Your Vancouver Island Itinerary
- Large campsites, some located right on the ocean
- Main campground has clean washrooms and showers for a loonie
- Office sells snacks and drinks for added convenience
- Long sandy beach perfect for hours of walking and exploring
- One of the most driftwood-covered beaches on Vancouver Island
- Iconic Port Renfrew location at the gateway to the Juan de Fuca coastline
Camping at Pacheedaht is a truly West Coast experience. While it may not have the privacy of a forested provincial park, it offers something rare and unforgettable: a chance to sleep by the ocean, explore a driftwood-strewn shoreline, and experience the rugged beauty of Port Renfrew up close.
