Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Gulf Islands Prior Centennial Park
Overview
Prior Centennial Campground offers a serene, forested retreat within the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve on North Pender Island. This park provides a rustic camping experience that emphasizes the natural beauty of the Southern Gulf Islands. It is one of the few vehicle-accessible campgrounds in the national park reserve, making it a key destination for RVers looking for a peaceful escape from more commercialized parks. The atmosphere is quiet and shaded, defined by a dense canopy of Douglas fir and cedar trees that provides a true sense of seclusion.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of North Pender Island, the park is easily reached after a short drive from the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, rocky shorelines, and lush woodlands typical of the British Columbia coast. Because it is located inland, the park feels like a secluded woodland sanctuary, yet it remains close enough to the island’s local services to be convenient. The air is fresh with the scent of pine, and the lack of city lights makes for excellent stargazing on clear nights.
Amenities & Park Features
As a national park site, the focus here is on conservation and a back-to-basics lifestyle. The campground features 17 vehicle-accessible campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. While there are no power or water hookups, the park provides pit toilets and a hand pump for potable water. RVers should arrive with full fresh water tanks and empty waste tanks, as there is no sani-dump on-site. The sites are best suited for smaller to mid-sized rigs, offering a private, intimate setting surrounded by natural vegetation.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Pender Island is an outdoor enthusiast's playground with plenty to explore. Visitors can visit the Roesland historic site, which features a museum and beautiful coastal views, just a short drive away. For those seeking activity, the island’s famous Disc Golf Park is a local favorite that attracts players from across the region. Hikers will enjoy the trek up Mount Norman on South Pender for panoramic views of the archipelago. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular at nearby Bedwell Harbour, where the calm waters offer a chance to spot seals or eagles.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who prefer peace and quiet over resort-style amenities. It is a perfect fit for van lifers and owners of smaller travel trailers who value a connection to nature and a slower pace of life. If you enjoy dry camping in a lush, temperate rainforest environment, Prior Centennial will meet your needs. It is less suited for large motorhomes or those requiring constant connectivity, making it a premier choice for those looking to unplug and explore the unique charm of the Gulf Islands.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
vishal prabhu
Clean and convenient location .well maintained & has lots of green and peaceful environment.
Paige Hunter
Great campsite. For bike packers, it is at the top of a steep hill!
Rory Chung
Has water source, garbage and recycling bins, central location. Site 1 is not reservable and available for 1 night stays only. It is near the outhouses so be prepared for the occasional waft when the wind shifts. Not a big deal during my stay, and did not present an issue. The Heart Trail at the back of the campground leads to the nearby disc golf park, it's a moderate 25 minute walk one way. There are fire pits at each site and you may be able to buy firewood from an attendant. I didn't do this personally so I cannot say for sure.
Al Lindskoog
Clean, quiet, beautiful. A perfect central location for whatever nature excursions you might be planning. And the beautiful buck that was often munching his way through the greenery was a special plus.
Jayne Hope
Only 17 sites. They are spacious and mostly private, there are shared sites. The facilities are primitive yet clean. The area is quiet amid a temperate rainforest and a short drive from the ferry. It is a central location.