Introduction
On my first West Coast Trail journey, I remember stumbling into a beach camp—exhausted, sweaty, and very hangry—only to find a massive driftwood log that served as the perfect bench. Another hiker, who was drying his socks over a tiny campfire, smiled and handed me a cup of hot chocolate. In that moment, I realized how important the right campsite can be for morale.
The WCT is peppered with spots that can feel like mini-sanctuaries: beaches with breathtaking sunrises, forest nooks that provide windbreaks, and places so quiet you can hear the waves lull you to sleep. Picking the right campsite is more than just convenience; it shapes your entire experience. Below, we’ll discuss campsite types, highlight a few favorites, share booking hacks, and talk about how to be a respectful neighbor in the wilderness.
(If you want a guide or a second opinion on campsite logistics, remember Coastal Bliss Adventures offers seasoned advice and even fully guided trips.)
Types of Campsites
Beach Camps vs. Inland Forest Camps
Beach spots offer mesmerizing ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. The trade-off? They can be windier, and if you’re not careful, you might set up too close to the high tide line. On the flip side, forest sites provide extra shelter from the elements but can be damp and darker due to the forest cover. If it is foggy, forest campsites “rain” continuously-this is fog-drip from the condensation of the fog onto the trees that drips down on you. The forest sites also tend to be “buggier” than the more breezy beach sites.
Established Sites with Amenities
All the official campsites along the West Coast Trail have bear caches or metal lockers where you can store food, along with composting toilets and sometimes driftwood or tree trunks for seating. Amenities might be basic, but they feel luxurious after a day of muddy trekking.
Primitive Spots for Solitude
If you crave fewer neighbors, you can occasionally find smaller clearings. Just be sure to follow Parks Canada regulations about minimal impact. Setting up a tent in an unauthorized location could harm the sensitive ecosystem. You have to find a way to cache your food away from “critters” in these sites.
Whichever you choose, read the trail map carefully. Some sections have easy water access, while others require a bit of searching, and there are mandatory no-camping areas along the trail.
Popular Campsite Highlights
Certain sites on the WCT are famed for their beauty and convenience. For instance, Tsocowis Creek is known for its scenic vantage points, while Darling River boasts a charming waterfall nearby. There’s also Michigan Creek, which is fairly close to a main trail entrance if you’re starting from the north. There is also the iconic Tsusiat Falls site, as well.
These sites typically fill up quickly during peak season. It’s not like a formal reservation system for each specific campsite, but get there early in the day if you want prime real estate. I once aimed for a sweet driftwood-enclosed spot at Darling River, only to arrive late and find it taken by a group toasting marshmallows. Lesson learned: timing can be everything.
Keep in mind that popular sites may come with a bit more noise and hiker camaraderie. If you prefer solitude, try setting off earlier or consider a less-often-used site that draws fewer folks. You need to look on blogs and guidebooks to make sure you have the “lay-of-the-land” on these sites.
Reservation and Etiquette
Most WCT campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but your overall trail reservation (secured through Parks Canada) includes the cost of camping. Once you’re on the trail, you can technically camp at any designated spot. However, there are a few unwritten rules that can make everyone’s experience better:
- Respect Quiet Hours: Not everyone wants to hear your late-night sing-along. Keep noise to a minimum, especially after dark.
- Food Storage: Use bear caches or hang your food if caches are unavailable. The last thing you want is a curious bear or raccoon rummaging around. But frankly, the mice are the biggest problem. If they get into some of your food, don’t use it. You can get ill from their urine and feces.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, including that tiny shred of food wrapper you might overlook. (Or mouse tampered food.) Also, be mindful of fires. If you’re having a driftwood fire, make sure it’s legal at that spot and that you keep it controlled. If there is a fire ban, DON’T HAVE A FIRE!
- Share the space if it’s crowded. Move your tents closer together and make space for others.
- Minimize artificial lights that annoy neighboring campers. Don’t walk around after dark shining your headlamp at tents and other campers. Be aware of where the light is shining.
- Keep the environment pristine (no dish soap in streams, please).
- Use established trails to avoid trampling vegetation. Not just in camps, but also on the trail. Your boots are made to handle mud (or they should be!), so walk through the middle of the trail to avoid widening the trail and damaging the forest.
- Politely negotiate space if you arrive late and it’s busy.
Following these guidelines helps preserve the wilderness feel for the next batch of hikers. My biggest pet peeve is folks who blast music on portable speakers, drowning out the sounds of nature. Let the waves, wind, and faint calls of wildlife be your soundtrack.
Managing Campsite Logistics
Packing for Beach Camping
If you choose a beach campsite, bring tent footprints or durable ground tarps. Sand can get everywhere, so a small towel or brush can help you keep the inside of your tent somewhat sand-free. Expect some wind, so ensure you have solid stakes or can weigh corners down with rocks. Most campsites have some wind protection, but if you are caught camping on an exposed beach area, your stakes are helpful.
Staying Dry in Wet Weather
Rain is a given in a temperate rainforest, so set up your rainfly tight, and consider draping a tarp over your communal area if you’re in a group. I once spent four days under steady drizzle and heavy rain, and that tarp became our lifesaver for cooking and socializing without getting drenched.
Cooking and Waste Disposal
No designated cooking areas exist at established campsites. Use good sense and cook away from vegetation. Don’t pour your hot pasta water in the creek or on areas with living things, including possible living tree roots underneath. Keep your food in sealed containers until you’re ready to cook, to avoid tempting wildlife. Dispose of wastewater away from any freshwater source.
Specifics for the two types of campsite
Beach sites: Watch tides, secure tent corners, clear driftwood for a flat spot, monitor wind direction
Forest sites: Check for overhead branches, manage damp ground, watch for insect activity, appreciate added wind protection
By planning ahead and packing smart, you’ll spend more time enjoying the sunset and less time fretting about soggy gear.
Conclusion
Choosing the right West Coast Trail campsite can transform your experience from a rough slog to a rejuvenating adventure. Whether you prefer the open vistas and starry skies of the beach or the cozy enclosure of a forest clearing, each night under the coastal canopy brings its own charm. Along the way, you’ll discover camaraderie with fellow hikers, gather around crackling driftwood fires, and maybe exchange a cup of hot chocolate or two.
Remember: the WCT is a shared space, so treat each campsite like a friend’s home. Follow the rules, respect nature, and extend kindness to your neighbors. If you ever want additional guidance—maybe a heads-up on which spots are more secluded or how to handle wildlife—don’t hesitate to seek help from Coastal Bliss Adventures. Their local expertise can steer you to the most picturesque (and least crowded) havens. So pack your gear, prep your tent, and get ready for some of the most awe-inspiring nights you’ll ever spend outdoors. Whether you’re lulled to sleep by rolling waves or the hush of towering cedars, you’ll wake up each morning with a renewed sense of wonder, ready to tackle another day on one of Canada’s most iconic trails.