With roaring waves and moody skies, storm watching is one of the most spectacular and unique winter activities to enjoy along British Columbia’s rugged coast. The phenomenon is due to there being no landmasses between Japan and Vancouver Island’s west coast, creating a perfect storm of high winds, clashing subtropical and arctic air, and dramatic waves. So, pack a warm sweater and a raincoat, and head out to the following spots to experience the soul-invigorating sight up close. 

Long Beach 

Located alongside the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway, Long Beach is well known as one of the most impressive beaches to storm watch. The longest and largest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park, the sweeping stretch of shoreline provides unobstructed views of big waves, with winds so powerful the trees bend towards the curling tides. 

Chesterman Beach 

Arguably where storm watching on the island first began, Chesterman Beach has some of the biggest swells and some of the wildest storms displays on the west coast. Always keep safety in mind, though: don’t stand on the rocks, keep your distance from the waves, and be sure to check the tide chart before you go. 

Sooke 

Sooke and surrounding areas like Jordan River are filled with large numbers of beautiful provincial and regional parks that offer great storm-watching opportunities. Follow the trails through French Beach, China Beach, Sombrio Beach, and Juan de Fuca to find sandy, driftwood-dotted shorelines being pounded by tall, crashing, sea-spraying waves. 
 

With excellent on-site amenities including an indoor whirlpool hot tub—perfect for warming up after a chilly day out storm watching—Capilano River RV Park is a convenient home base for winter activities on the west coast like storm watching. Get in touch with us today to reserve your spot!

Image via Togo RV

Looking for an adventure this summer? Travel safely and enjoy the great outdoors by planning an RV trip to BC. From the picturesque beaches of Tofino to the lush forests of Squamish, there are plenty of spots to set up shop in BC this summer.

Crystal Cove Beach Resort, Tofino

Is there any part of Vancouver Island more picturesque than Tofino? We certainly don’t think so. Get in your RV and head to Crystal Cove Beach Resort, where you can wake up to the most beautiful oceanfront sunrise of your life. The Crystal Cove Beach Resort is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the town of Tofino and 15 minutes from Pacific Rim National Park. Park amenities include 30 hookup sites, as well as WiFi, coffee, free firewood, and DVD and board game rentals.

Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, Sechelt

Head to the Sunshine Coast and enjoy all that Porpoise Bay Provincial Park has to offer. Situated in Sechelt, BC, this waterfront park is known for its turquoise waters, sand beaches, and majestic forests. Whether you’re looking to swim, paddle, or hike, you will find a great spot in Porpoise Bay Provincial Park. Although there are no hookups in the park, you can visit the nearby Bayside Campground & RV Park for the essentials (it has 10 partial hookup sites and 20 full hookup sites).  

Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park, Nanaimo

The Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park is one of the most popular RV parks on Vancouver Island. Located in Nanaimo, this family-friendly spot has plenty of amenities, plus over 300 campgrounds. Here, you’ll find showers, a café, trail access, a games room and lounge, and of course, panoramic views of the area. Bring your kayak along and enjoy a morning paddle in the water or head out for a bike ride or hike on one of the nearby trails. There’s no shortage of natural beauty at this Nanaimo RV park.

Alice Lake Provincial Park, Squamish

One hour north of Vancouver lies Alice Lake Provincial Park in Squamish. Swimming, fishing, and plenty of hiking trails make this a popular spot. The campground can accommodate up to 55 vehicles with one group camping area that has electrical hookups. Pack your hiking boots and explore Squamish’s beautiful backcountry or take it easy and enjoy a ride on the famous Sea to Sky Gondola. 

If you’re visiting BC this summer, then we recommend exploring it by RV. And if you need a place to stay during your time in Vancouver, you’re always welcome at the Capilano River RV Park.

Image by: Pexels.

 

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, take this opportunity to plan a staycation and explore local! In and around the Vancouver area there’s tons to do, but one winter outdoor activity tops the list.

 

Start the ski season right

The early bird gets the worm - and skiing is no different! Check out what deals are available at top skiing attractions near Vancouver, such as saving 45 per cent when you buy a snow pass to Grouse Mountain before November 30! The pass will give you access to the Skyride - “the first thrill in your day,” all the skiing and snowboarding the day can hold, terrain parks for daredevils and snowshoeing for those who like to take in the snowy sights.

 

On Mount Seymour, you can ski, snowboard, toboggan or even snow tube! But be sure to snag a season pass early because they’re almost 90 per cent sold out.  

 

At Cypress Mountain, Lights to the Lodge offers a safe and easy one-kilometre snowshoe trek to the historic Hollyburn Lodge along a self-guided trail through the enchanting Old Growth Forest. If you’re not a fan of snowshoeing, Cypress Mountain is known for its night skiing. Pre-purchase your tickets online and save money on tickets when you do so!  

 

All the mountains are implementing COVID-19 measures so anticipate delays for travelling to and from the hill, limited capacities, and face coverings mandated throughout the resorts.  

 

Whether you’re heading up to Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain or Mount Seymour, they’re all minutes away from Vancouver’s only centrally located RV Park, Capilano River RV Park.

 

At the RV Park, you’ll be sure to want some downtime to relax in our indoor Whirlpool tub that’s open year round. Stay warm with the on-site hot tub and stay dry with laundry facilities on site. You’ll be in the heart of it all, with access to all you need. Book your stay to secure your spot!  

When Vancouverites talk about the amazing activities around the Capilano Regional Park, many usually refer to going skiing, mountain biking, checking out the scenic coastline, and other fun activities.

However, some of the more overlooked attractions around this park are the beautiful hiking trails that surround it. Hiking a good trail can be an amazing experience, whether you're going on a solo mission or an adventure with your family.

What’s even better is that it doesn’t matter whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to take on new challenges or a beginner looking to get started, there are hiking trails suited for every individual’s skill set.  Here are just a couple of the trails you might like:

A Steady Start: Capilano Pacific Park and Millstream Park

If you have never hiked a day in your life and are looking to explore the world of hiking, the Capilano pacific park and Millstream park trails are awesome trails to start your hiking journey. Both trails take approximately four hours to complete and will give you a taste of the hiking world.

Picking up the Pace: Brother’s Creek Trail

If you’re someone who’s already been through some of the tamer trails and are looking to step it up a notch, the brother’s creek trail is definitely a trail that you might find interesting. This 5km round trip will take approximately six hours to complete and has magnificent sights of nature.

A Bit of a Challenge: Baden Powell Trail

If you are an experienced hiker looking for a challenge that will push you to your limit, you will definitely be put to the test hiking the incredible Baden Powell Trail. Constructed over 50 years ago, the West Vancouver portion of the trail is approximately 22 kilometres long and will take an estimated 12 hours to complete. Finishing this kind of trail would definitely be something to be proud of.

To view more trails in this city, feel free to click here.

Everyday many of us are so immersed in the chaos of everyday life that a lot of us do not usually get many opportunities to enjoy raw and beautiful nature and see it for its real potential. 

With that being said, picking out an RV and parking it for a night or two at the Capilano River Park could definitely be your escape for a couple of days or even longer. Reserve your spot before the summer ends!

There are many ways to entertain yourself while visiting Metro Vancouver. You can venture out to explore the natural wonders of Waterfront Park, Capilano Canyon, and Lynn Canyon - just to name a few breathtaking attractions in North Vancouver. However, you won't have to travel far to find great dining spots within the Lonsdale Quay Market and a hub of shops, boutiques, and salons along Lonsdale Avenue. There is also never a shortage of fun activities and events that take place in the Lower Mainland throughout the year. If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver in late February, you'll find a whole host of entertaining things to do while you're here in our fair city. Find out more below:

Source: Adi

For the home

While you’re visiting Vancouver, you might be thinking of home. If you are attending the ever-popular BC Home And Garden Show, you're definitely thinking of home. The Home and Garden show is a massive trade show that features over 400 vendors displaying all things related to your humble abode or your mega-mansion. This 5-day event will be taking place from February 19th to the 23rd at BC Place Stadium. This is where you'll want to be if you are thinking of home renovations, redecorating, upgrading or looking for design ideas for your new place. There is something for every corner of your house, plus outdoor items. Bring a souvenir back home, order a unique piece of furniture, or test out that state-of-the-art home theatre. 

There will be so much going on under one roof such as gardens shows, product demonstrations, cooking demonstrations, guest presentations, ask-an-expert panels, contests, and sweepstakes. There will also be HGTV celebrities on hand such as Bryan Baumler from "Island of Bryan", and Mickey Fabbiano and Sebastian Sevallo from "Worst to First". Tickets are $16 for adults and kids 13 years and over; tickets for seniors over 60 years are $13.

Delicious craft beer and coffee

Did you know that BC is home to one of the finest craft beer scenes in North America? There is also a thriving coffee culture as well. The 3rd annual Hopwired Festival celebrates the coming together of local, national and international craft beer offerings and rare fine coffees all under one roof. Taste and savour special concoctions created by expert brewers and roasters working together to bring you the best of both worlds. Sample truly uniquely crafted beverages such as: Nightwatch Coffee Lager, Mean Muggin' Stout, Smoking Gun Coffee, House of Funk Coffee and much more. There will be unlimited espresso, donuts and food trucks. The pouring and drinking will take place on February 29th at the Croatian Cultural Centre. This will be the final year the festival will be held, so don't miss out. Purchase your early bird tickets soon!

Stand up comedy

On February 25th, famed Australian comic Hannah Gadsby will be performing at the Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver. She’s a quick-witted, insightful comedian, and everyone that leaves her show will be fully aware that they’ve witnessed a master at work. Although she had taken top prizes at comedy festivals in Australia and the UK, she received global attention with her 2018 Netflix special of her stand-up show, Nanette. She's back on the tour circuit with a brand new show, Douglas. Catch this angry and amazing comedian doing what she does best!

When you plan your vacation at a destination spot such as Metro Vancouver, you'll find diverse attractions and events that offers something for everyone. You'll also have the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while staying close to the metropolitan area.  When you book a spot at the Capilano River RV Park, located between the sparkling waters of the Burrard Inlet and the forests that line the North Shore of Vancouver, you can get back to nature on our campgrounds. Our camping and RV sites are supervised 24 hours a day, and offer impressive amenities such as a recreation lounge, hot tub, pool, children's playground, laundry facilities, and much more. Make your reservations today!

Photo by Ronmar Lacamiento

 

Lower Lonsdale, dubbed "LoLo" by locals, is a growing quay with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. With the rise of many new condo towers, young families are flocking to the North Shore for its relatively affordable prices and seek the same kind of entertainment and dining experiences as the downtown core. Visitors and new homeowners alike won't be disappointed by the new eateries popping up in "LoLo" and across the North Shore. 

 

If you're heading to North Vancouver, this is your must-eat list. 

 

Burgoo

For a casual night out, head to trusty and consistent Burgoo for a hearty and comforting meal. This Vancouver classic is the perfect spot for a rainy day. Find dishes like decadent french onion soup, loaded mac and cheese, shepherd's pie and many more homecooked favourites. 

 

Gusto Di Quattro

For fine-dining within the quay, make your way to Gusto Di Quattro, an upscale Italian restaurant without the high-class pretension. This neighbourhood staple has been operating since the 2000s, serving a rustic menu with traditional Italian pasta and entrees.

 

BLVD Bistro

Vancouverites love brunch, so much so that they will line up for hours to get into their favourite brunch spot. BLVD proves it's worth the wait, this popular North Shore breakfast joint offers a cozy atmosphere and reinvented hearty classics. Try the Macadamia Nut Pancakes, with bananas and macadamia nuts stashed inside a three-stack pancake served with coconut cream syrup. Try also their claim to fame egg benedict. Their benny's are top-tier and come with their signature bread pudding, house-made hollandaise and a side of fries. Run, don't walk to this establishment or you'll be waiting forever! 

 

Farina Pizza

For a quick bite head to the recently-opened Farina Pizza, a popular Main Street institution's newest outpost. Find Northern-Italian style pizzas and a selection of antipasti, insalate, pasta, and desserts. As well, diners can enjoy local craft beer and prosecco on tap, or browse through their all-Italian wine list. 

 

All of these restaurants and eateries are only a quick drive away from the Capilano River Park RV and Campsite, the perfect place to embrace the beauty of the great outdoors and enjoy delicious meals in the city.

Photo by Lee Robinson on Unsplash

 

The North Shore is home to grand hikes, stunning trails, and boasts beautiful scenery at every angle, making it known as Lower Mainland's natural treasure. It's the destination for enjoying the best of Vancouver's forestry and jaw-dropping waterfalls. Not only is it plush with greenery and offers a wealth of outdoor activities, but it also has a thriving community with fun events happening every weekend, such as the Shipyards Night Market.

 

Voted the Best Outdoor Event in Vancouver, the annual Shipyards Night Market takes place every Friday from May to September. Visitors and locals can try Vancouver's best food vendors, shop from local artisans, and enjoy live music at the historic Shipbuilders Commons located in Lower Lonsdale. 

 

Still unconvinced you should make this a stop? Here are some reasons why you should make your way to the Shipyards Night Market this summer: 

 

"Hot Food Alley" 

With a list of over 40 of Vancouver's favourite food trucks, the variety found at Shipyard's 'hot food alley' is sure to satisfy any craving. Joining the alley this year is Buddha-Full’s vegan double-decker bus, Truckin BBQ and the Chowdery. The usual suspects include Reel Mac & Cheese, Rolling Cashew, and Tacofino. You can also find deserts, baked goods, gelato and more. 

 

Outdoor drinking, hello! 

Grab a friend or two or five for a night of drinks! The market boasts a 350-person outdoor beer garden, which serves local craft beer and cider as well as Betty’s Vodka Iced Tea, and Nude vodka and gin sodas. 

 

Tune into fresh tunes

Find live music at the Shipbuilders' Stage, showcasing local artists and up-and-coming BC talent. Discover your next favourite band while chowing down on some grub or with a drink in hand from the beer garden. 

 

Fresh Farmer's Market 

After enjoying a social night out, make a quick stop at the farmer's market to purchase fresh food and locally-made products from over 100 vendors. Instead of heading to a major supermarket, support a local business that will ensure your produce is of the highest quality. 

 

Once you're ready to hit snooze, be sure to make the Capilano River RV Park your place to park it for the evening. The RV park is merely a 10-minute drive from Lower Lonsdale, conveniently located to popular North shore attractions and events. It's the perfect anchor spot for all of your west coast excursions!

 

Morning: Coffee on Marine Drive

 

 

Afternoon: Shopping and Lunch at Park Royal

 

 

Evening: A sunset walk over the Lions Gate Bridge

 

Photo taken by: Twentyonekoalas
 
If you’re lucky enough to make it out to the North Shore this Valentines Day season, we have a sneaking suspicion you’ll be feeling warm and fuzzy - either from loved ones, or just in admiration for this beautiful place we at Capilano RIver RV Park call home. Read on to make your visit to Vancouver a special one!
 

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts

Grab a pint or two together at North Vancouver’s award-winning brewery, Beere! This refreshing, lesser-known spot won’t be a secret for long - it’s quickly gaining some traction, and for good reason! The retrofitted warehouse and beer-brewing space has been transformed to accomodate a beautiful tasting room, with rustic wood and metal finishes, and a stellar view of the Burrard Inlet. And - more importantly - they won first place in Beer Me BC’s People’s Choice Awards list of ‘Best New BC Craft Brewery’! Make sure to try their Pale Ale - you won’t be disappointed!
 

Artisan Farmers Market

For the appreciators of good food, artisan goods, and unique gifts, then look no further than the Lonsdale Artisan Farmers Market! Happening every Saturday and Sunday in the East Plaza, visitors can sample, chat, and pick up the perfect Valentine’s day gift for that special someone! Afterwards, a walk along the outside of the Quay, or along the pier is always a romantic way to spend a morning or afternoon.
 

Breathe in Some Mountain Air

The North Shore is blessed with three amazing mountains - Cypress, Seymour, and Grouse - all with amazing hikes to enjoy together. For an adrenaline-filled evening, we recommend Cypress Mountain’s ‘Valentines Day Snowshoe Fondue’ guided evening snowshoe tour (Feb 10th), or Grouse’s ‘Mountaintop Ice Skating’ (November to April) on their 8000-ft frozen lake above the city. Just make sure to double-check the weather conditions beforehand!
 
After the fun day exploring, our amazing indoor whirlpool hot tub is sure to allow you to relax before bed. If the kids need to get out some extra energy, we also have an on-site
playground too! We hope you enjoy your stay at the Capilano River RV Park!

Photo by Jay Huang

There’s nothing quite like life on the road when you own an RV. That’s because you’re in control of the pace of life, taking things at your speed. If you have shopping to do this fall, check out these great spots in Vancouver!
 

PARK ROYAL MALL

Located in prestigious West Vancouver, Park Royal is a marquis shopping experience that offers some of the hottest and most exciting brands in the world in an amazing setting, and at a relaxed pace. Most upscale malls are oppressively busy, but a trip to Park Royal never feels stressful – there are always shoppers, but this is the most civilized shopping experience you’re ever likely to experience! Find great stores like Aritzia, Fossil, and Michal Kohrs! You can also check out Simon’s, the department store that originated in Quebec and offers quality clothing at a price that won’t break the bank. Finish your day with a lovely Italian meal at Trattoria, casual dining at the Cactus Club or Milestone’s, or even a satisfyingly sloppy burger at the famous Five Guys – Park Royal is a shopping experience at your pace.
 

MEC NORTH VANCOUVER

MEC is another store that is typically all too busy… unless you’re in North Vancouver! MEC North Vancouver is architecturally fascinating, located in a structure with bent wood and glass that reflects the pioneering spirit of North Van! Deceptively small, this MEC location has friendly staff and great deals, and is a great place to outfit your RV with ingeniously designed travel tools and smart clothing perfect for life on the road!

There’s so much to explore in Vancouver, and shopping is just one of the many things to do. That’s why we hope you’ll pull up to Capilano River RV Park! Conveniently located near West, North, and downtown Vancouver, we’re the perfect staging grounds for all your coastal adventures. Book your lot today for an unforgettable stay! 

Image by Fanfi

Looking to explore Vancouver this summer? Luckily for visitors to our beautiful city, Vancouver has a very accessible and convenient public transit system. All you need is bus fare, and you’re set to explore some of the city’s best attractions without the hassle of parking.

If you’re planning to head to Vancouver’s downtown area, catch the 250, 255 or 253 to Vancouver on Park Royal’s south side. These buses will take you over the Lions Gate Bridge, through the Stanley Park Causeway and run along West Georgia Street through the downtown core. Hop off at Denman Street, which is a good starting point to explore Stanley Park by either foot, bike or even roller-skates! After you can grab lunch or a drink at one of the many eateries along Denman Street and English Bay Beach.

Take the bus further down West Georgia and get off at Granville Street, and you're right in the city centre. This is a great jumping off point if you are planning on doing some shopping as it is within walking distance of some shopping hot-spots Pacific Centre and Robson Street. This stop is also where you get off if you want to catch the Skytrain – the rapid-transit train system which will get you out to the cities of Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, New Westminster and Surrey.

If travelling by boat is more your thing, there is also the option to take the SeaBus. This scenic ferry ride over the Burrard Inlet runs from Lonsdale Quay on the North Shore and drops off at Vancouver’s historic Gastown. From here you can explore some sights along the water’s edge including Canada Place and the Jack Poole Olympic Plaza, and snaps some photos of the scenic harbour.

The SeaBus leaves every fifteen minutes from either side starting at 6:00 AM on weekdays and 7:00 AM on Saturdays and 8:00 AM on Sundays and holidays. You can get to the SeaBus station by taking the 239 Capilano U bus from Park Royal South.

Right in the centre of many of the transit routes in Metro Vancouver is the Capilano River RV Park and Campsite, which is just a ten-minute walk away from the Park Royal bus station. With its amenities and central location, the Capilano River RV Park is a great place to stay if you are looking for that perfect balance of activity and relaxation on your trip to Vancouver.

 
Outdoor markets and events are surely the best part of summer! North Vancouver’s beloved annual Shipyards Night Market returns starting May 4^th. Join the fun with food, art, and live music every Friday night starting at 5 pm until September 28^th.
 
If you’re looking to shop, there will be over 100 vendors selling unique, locally made goods – perfect for gifts or as a treat for yourself! Live music is on at the market until 10 pm, with performances by local artists and musicians.
 
There will also be plenty of fresh, local food and drink to enjoy with friends. In previous years, the market has included over 40 food trucks in their ‘hot food alley’. Be sure to stay tuned for this year’s lineup of food vendors – it seems that food trucks have been taking over the foodie scene in Vancouver, so you’re sure to find interesting, unique, and most importantly delicious eats! And of course, there is also your standard snack fare to tide you over like popcorn, ice cream, and more. If you’re over 19 years old, be sure to check out the beer garden, which serves up local craft beer and cider, as well as Betty’s Vodka Iced Tea.
 
The Shipyards Night Market is held at the Shipbuilders’ Square, just a 10 minute drive away from Capilano River RV Park. Street parking is available in the areas surrounding the market, or there is free parking in the ICBC parkade after 6 pm on Fridays, located next to the Lonsdale Quay Market. If you’re taking transit, the market is just a 30 minute bus ride away from Capilano River RV Park – perfect if you’re looking to have a drink or two in celebration of summer and Friday nights in North Vancouver!

 
Long gone are warm sunny days that stay bright late into the evening. With the sun setting in the early afternoons, it’s important to find other ways to light up the night and make the most of those chilly winter evenings. See our suggestions below for beautifully bright and dazzling displays of light in North Vancouver this December:
 

Holiday Hi Light Festival at Park & Tilford Gardens

This event lights up the beautiful gardens and runs for the entire month of December, 7 days a week. Stay tuned for more details on opening night, but based on previous years of the festival, there’s sure to be live entertainment, plenty of hot chocolate, and of course amazing light displays to enjoy. Admission is by donation, and children and families are more than welcome to attend. The gardens are less than a 20 minute drive away from Capilano RV Park.
 

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

This beloved festival is a Vancouver classic. Cross the magnificent suspension bridge as it’s decked out in sparkling Christmas lights. The entire park – including the bridge, the treetop walkway, the Cliffwalk, and more – is lit up by hundreds of thousands of lights for a truly enchanting experience. Stop at one of the concession trolleys for a hot drink and some candy and take your time exploring the park with family or friends. This year’s display runs from November 23^rd to January 28^th. Capilano Suspension Bridge park is less than a 10 minute drive away from Capilano RV Park, or less than 30 minutes with public transit.
 

The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain

There’s no better place to enjoy the sparkle of Christmas lights than on a snowy mountain peak. From November 24^th until January 7^th, Grouse Mountain presents is Peak of Christmas events, where you can revel in the Holiday spirit by skating on the outdoor mountaintop skating pond, meet Santa and his elves, and enjoy the Light Walk – a trail winding around Blue Grouse Lake where stunning light installations are woven through snowy spruce and fir trees. There are also plenty more Christmas-themed crafting, sledding, and dining activities which will be a blast for the whole family!
 
There are so many ways to light up the night in North Vancouver this winter! Capilano RV Park is a family-friendly destination where you can bring the whole family to enjoy the magic of bright lights on a chilly night.