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Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park
Overview
Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park offers a rare combination of 53 acres of natural beauty situated right where the Nanaimo River flows into the Salish Sea. This park is widely recognized as one of the premier destinations on Vancouver Island, providing a tranquil escape that feels worlds away from the city despite being just minutes from downtown Nanaimo. Visitors are often struck by the expansive natural landscape and the variety of site options that range from deep forest seclusion to breathtaking waterfront vistas.
Location & Surroundings
The park is uniquely positioned at the southern edge of Nanaimo, British Columbia. It features over a mile of water frontage, offering views of the Nanaimo River estuary and the surrounding coastal mountains. The surroundings are defined by massive Douglas fir and cedar trees, creating a lush canopy that provides both privacy and a sense of immersion in the Pacific Northwest wilderness. It is an ideal base for exploring the central part of the island or waiting for a nearby BC Ferries departure.
Amenities & Park Features
This facility is designed to accommodate everything from small camper vans to large motorhomes. Many sites offer full hookups with 50-amp service, and the entire park is equipped with modern fiber-optic Wi-Fi for those who need to stay connected. One of the most beloved features is the on-site gourmet coffee shop, which serves as a social hub for guests. The park also includes clean laundry facilities, hot showers, and a network of well-maintained walking trails that wind through the forest and along the water's edge.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Guests can launch a kayak or canoe directly from the park to explore the calm waters of the estuary. For those seeking more adrenaline, WildPlay Element Park is a short drive away, offering ziplining and obstacle courses. Nanaimo’s vibrant downtown and the Harbourfront Walkway provide excellent opportunities for dining and shopping. Additionally, the park is a convenient jumping-off point for day trips to Parksville’s sandy beaches or the rugged beauty of the island’s west coast.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is best suited for travelers who prioritize a strong connection to nature without sacrificing high-end amenities. It is a favorite for extended-stay winter RVers who appreciate the mild coastal climate and the sense of community found within the park. Families will enjoy the safe, spacious environment and the outdoor recreation opportunities, while photographers and birdwatchers will find endless inspiration in the diverse wildlife and stunning coastal sunsets that define the Nanaimo experience.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jurgen Wang
Absolutely loved our stay at Living Forest Oceanside Campground! The location is stunning — surrounded by tall trees, ocean views, and peaceful vibes. The campsites are clean, private, and well-maintained, and the staff are super friendly. We set up our ultralight WindQuester tents right by the water, and the views at sunrise and around the campfire were unforgettable. Perfect spot for both relaxing and testing out gear. Definitely one of the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island! 🌲🔥🏕️
Cassandra
Travelled across Canada, and this was definitely one of our favourite campgrounds. It had a playground (not huge, but it helped the kids burn off some energy). There were canoes and kayaks for rent. Laundry facilities and showers on site, for a fee. The camping spot we got was near the water (up a hill, but with a waterview), and it was quite nice! We would recommend this campground if you're in the area and looking for a place to park your RV or tent.
Lauren Pfeiffer
We stayed for four nights in one of the waterfront spots. All the hook ups I needed were conveniently placed and it was peaceful and quiet. The facilities were dated, but work. The office staff and Cafe staff were fantastic. I also loved that they are pet friendly. If you're lucky, you can watch the seals play in the estuary. We will stay again for sure!
Rhea Skogen
We stayed here in late July, in our motorhome. The staff are lovely, the RV park is well kept, with gorgeous sites and amenities that are well maintained. We were in a spot that was spacious and beautifully treed in on 3 sides. The trails around the park are well maintained and are an absolutely gorgeous, easy walk (walkable by able bodied, not necessarily accessible to wheelchairs, walkers or canes). This is one of our favorite camping spots on the island!
Karen Guy
We camp there every single year and we love love it! It's right next to the Nanaimo estuary which is wonderful for swimming and paddle boarding. They also have a cafe and an adult lounge. There is a laundromat as well as a propane fill and in the office they have camping supplies and snacks.
