Explore the Beauty of Nature at China Creek Campground, Port Alberni, Vancouver Island
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Vancouver Island, China Creek Campground in Port Alberni stands as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Offering a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, this picturesque destination promises an unforgettable outdoor experience for all and makes it one of the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island.
Location: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away just south of Port Alberni on the Alberni Inlet, China Creek Campground boasts a location that feels like a secret! Surrounded by lush forests and overlooking pristine waters, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Getting There
Once you reach Nanaimo, you will get onto Highway 19 heading northwest to Parksville. At Qualicum Beach take the exit to Port Alberni on Highway #4. Travel time is about 90 minutes from Nanaimo to the campground.
There is a fully paved and well maintained road that takes you all the way in to China Creek Campground. So there are no issues getting your RV here.
If you are planning a trip to Tofino, we highly recommend making a stop in Port Alberni and spending a night or two at China Creek Campground. It will add beauty and adventure to your trip – you do not want to miss this area!
Accommodations for Every Taste
China Creek Campground & Marina features 250 full and partial service tent and RV sites with forest or beach views. The campground has full service washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, propane, ice, firewood and is open seasonally from April to October.
Whether you’re a tent camper, an RV enthusiast, or seeking a touch of luxury, China Creek Campground has you covered:
- Beachfront and Creekside Camping: Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature with beachfront or creekside camping options.
- Cabanas: Experience the great outdoors with a touch of comfort in one of their cozy glamping cabanas. There are two cabanas on site that offer everything you need, even ocean access! Amenities include a queen sized bed, fridge, outdoor kitchen, firepit and private deck.
- Glamping Cabins: If you are looking for a step up from tent camping, check out the campgrounds 7 ocean view cabins. Each cabin provides you with a mattress, fridge, microwave and large outdoor area. All you need to do is bring your sheets!
- The Guesthouse: Perfect for larger groups or families, The Guesthouse offers spacious accommodations with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
Recreation Galore
Get ready for endless fun and relaxation with a range of recreational activities:
- Corn Hole, Bocce Ball, and More: Challenge your friends and family to a friendly game of corn hole, bocce ball, or try your hand at sports balls and badminton.
- Gold Panning: Channel your inner prospector and try your luck at gold panning.
- Fishing: With spectacular fishing opportunities, bring your boat to the marina or arrange a guided charter for an unforgettable fishing experience.
Thrilling Water Activities
For water enthusiasts, China Creek Campground offers exciting opportunities:
- Kiteboarding Lessons: Take kiteboarding lessons with Wind Rider Surfing and ride the waves like a pro.
- Scuba Diving: Dive into the depths and explore the underwater world teeming with sea life and the remnants of an old shipwreck.
- Paddle-Boarding and Kayaking: Starting June 1st, guests can rent paddle-boards and kayaks to explore the pristine waters surrounding China Creek Campground.
The Marina
The China Creek Marina has 88 slips and more than 2300 lineal feet of side tie moorage.
They accommodate boat camping and have a gas dock offering both marine fuel and diesel, a four lane launch ramp, fish cleaning station, electrical hook-ups and pump-out station.
Are you an outdoor enthusiast like us? While you’re here, check out our other outdoor posts:
‘Your Day Hiking Essentials Packing List’
‘How to Get in Shape for Hiking’
‘The Essential Backpacking Packing List’
‘Hiking Food Ideas for Healthy Snacks and Meals’
‘The Ultimate Camping Packing List – With FREE Printable’
’10 of the BEST Budget Sleeping Bags’
Exploring Port Alberni
One of the best things about China Creek Campground is it’s natural surroundings.
The town of Port Alberni is surrounded by mountains, freshwater lakes and waterfalls, which makes it the perfect base for adventure lovers. It offers a small-town vibe with the amenities of a city.
There is so much to see and do in Port Alberni!
Restaurants
Boomerangs Café: This spot promises “We’ll keep you coming back!” and their family-run atmosphere and familiar staff make you realize why.
The Starboard Grill: Sits on the waterfront in Harbour Quay and has views of the Alberni Inlet, Vancouver Island’s largest ocean inlet.
Little Bavaria: Has deep roots in this town and has been serving traditional German food since 1966. It is a true icon here and every resident has a story to tell about it.
Ironworks Café & Crêperie: The cafe is so bright, fresh and modern; it’s an excellent way to start off the day.
Breweries
Twin City Brewing: Cozy and welcoming public house that sums up Port Alberni perfectly.
Alberni Brewing Company: West coast style brewery with huge indoor and outdoor spaces filled with live-edge wood tables, fireplaces and modern British Columbian design.
Dog Mountain Brewing: This brewery has a giant rooftop patio with a super fun and chill vibe.
Hikes and Trails
Alberni Inlet Trail: Embark on a scenic hike along the Alberni Inlet Trail, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Trail access is right here at China Creek Campground!
Kitsuksis Creek Trail: Conveniently located right within the town’s downtown area. The majority of this trail is paved and intersects both Blair Park and Spencer Park with many amenities, including washrooms, playgrounds, picnic areas and a dog park.
Kitsuksis Creek Falls: Sits to the north end of Kitsuksis Creek Trail and you will find a cascading Kitsuksis Creek Falls with a towering wooden trestle overhead.
Weiner Falls: An impressive view of these falls from the bottom and the top of the trail.
China Creek Falls: Close to the campground, as the name suggests. The entire hike follows beautiful China Creek which is crystal clear with a vibrant turquoise colour. This waterfall will blow you away. The entire scene looks like something that came out of a fairy tale.
Landmarks
Harbour Quay: Located right downtown and is a gathering place for locals. Pop in to local donut shops, cafes and shops.
Alberni Valley Museum: To learn more about the area’s history. Most museums store the majority of their artifacts where guests cannot see them. But the Alberni Valley Museum uses a unique ‘Visible Storage’ system to make their entire collection available to their visitors at all times.
Experience Nature’s Best
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, China Creek Campground offers the perfect setting for your next outdoor getaway.
Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Vancouver Island’s wilderness at this hidden gem.
We think is just may be the best campground on Vancouver Island!
