Be Prepared

How to Be Prepared for Camping in British Columbia

Explore with confidence and consideration—Know Before you Go.

Camping in British Columbia promises unforgettable adventures, whether you’re drawn to alpine lakes, coastal forests, desert valleys, or remote wilderness. However, the province’s varied landscapes and unpredictable conditions make preparation essential. Knowing your destination thoroughly is the first step.

Determine if you’re headed to a BC Parks campground in a provincial park, a Parks Canada site, a Recreation Site and Trail location on provincial crown land, or a privately operated campground. Familiarize yourself with the available amenities—check if there’s potable water, toilets, and fire pits. Ensure that the access roads are suitable for your vehicle and inquire about cell service or Wi-Fi availability, as many areas might be slightly off the grid.

TIP: ✅Download maps offline and always inform someone of your travel plans, especially when heading to remote areas.

Your safety is important to us. It is up to you to plan ahead and prepare, as you are in charge of the most important aspects of your safety. So here are some tips, tricks and advice to consider so that you and your camping party are prepared.

🎒Pack the Right Camping Gear

A good camping gear (tenter and backpackers) checklist ensures comfort and safety. Essentials include:

• Tent or shelter (plus ground tarp)
• Sleeping bag (rated for your location’s temperatures)
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Camp stove or BBQ (and fuel)
• Cookware, utensils, and biodegradable dish soap
• Food and water (at least 2L per person/day)
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries
• Clothing layers (including waterproof jacket and warm layers for evenings)
• Bear-proof food storage (coolers or bear canisters, rope for hanging from tree limbs)

TIP: ⚠️ BC’s climate can shift quickly—even in summer. Prepare for sunshine, wind, rain, and cooler nights.

🐻Respect Wildlife

British Columbia is home to bears, cougars, deer, moose, and more. Stay safe and respectful:

• Store all food, garbage, and scented items in secure containers.
• Keep your campsite clean and free of attractants.
• Make noise when hiking to avoid surprising wildlife.
• Carry bear spray—and know how to use it.

TIP: 🚫 Never feed or approach wildlife. Even if they seem harmless, it’s dangerous for you and the animals.

🔥 Campfire Safety

Before lighting a fire, check for campfire bans on the BC Wildfire Service website or local signage. When fires are permitted:

• Use designated fire rings or pits.
• Never leave a campfire unattended.
• To properly extinguish a campfire, first ensure it has burned down to embers and ash, if possible. Then, pour lots of water on the fire, ensuring all embers are doused, not just the red ones. Stir the embers and ashes with a shovel and make sure everything is thoroughly wet and cool to the touch. If water is unavailable, mix dirt or sand with the embers and stir until everything is cool.

TIP: ✅ Consider a portable stove for cooking as a low-impact cooking alternative.

🌿 Practice Leave No Trace

🚨Emergency Preparedness

Help may not be readily available in remote regions. Be ready with:

• A map, compass, or GPS
• Emergency whistle
• Extra food, water and clothing
• Fully charged cell phone and portable power bank
• A weather-appropriate survival blanket

TIP: 📡For longer or remote backcountry trips, consider a satellite communication device.

Having Fun and Being Responsible

Camping in British Columbia is a privilege, not a right – be prepared and be responsible.  Remember that we are all only temporary guests who like to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy everything this incredible province has to offer.

By following these be prepared steps and pledging The Camper’s Code, you’ll not only have a memorable outdoor adventure but also help contribute to the preservation of natural spaces for future generations. Happy Camping!

Published: April 25, 2025

Last Updated: June 24, 2025