Camping

Just outside the city, you’ll find several well-maintained provincial parks that have become weekend favourites for locals. Purden Lake Provincial Park, located about 45 minutes east, offers sandy beaches, warm summer water, and shaded, private campsites perfect for both families and RV travellers. To the west, Beaumont Provincial Park sits on the shores of Fraser Lake and delivers incredible sunset views, full facilities, and excellent boating opportunities. Bear Lake Provincial Park, a bit farther north, provides a quieter camping experience with fewer crowds and a more rustic, laid-back feel. For quick escapes, West Lake Provincial Park, just 30 minutes from Prince George, is a staple for day trips and informal camping nearby.

For campers who crave something more adventurous, the area is surrounded by forestry recreation sites, free or low-cost, first-come-first-served locations maintained by Recreation Sites & Trails BC (sitesandtrailsbc.ca). These spots offer fire rings, pit toilets, lakeside access, and a true sense of wilderness. Popular choices include sites near Raven Lake, Forests for the World, and the Sugarbowl–Grizzly Den area, where alpine terrain, wildlife viewing, and rewarding hikes are right outside your tent flap.

Top 10 Campgrounds Near Prince George

Here are ten of the most loved campgrounds within easy reach of the city — a mix of provincial parks, recreation sites, and lesser-known gems:

• Purden Lake Provincial Park – 45 minutes east; sandy beach, warm water, family-friendly.
• Beaumont Provincial Park – 1 hour west; lakeside camping, boat launch, gorgeous sunsets.
• Bear Lake Provincial Park – North of PG; quieter, rustic, great for fishing and paddling.
• West Lake Provincial Park – 30 minutes southwest; close to town, popular for quick getaways.
• Whiskers Point Provincial Park – On McLeod Lake, about 1 hour north; stunning lake views, well-treed sites.
• Crooked River Provincial Park – A favourite for its turquoise water and beautiful day-use areas.
• Summit Lake Recreation Site – Popular for paddling, swimming, and a more laid-back camping feel.
• Raven Lake Recreation Site – Access to a stunning alpine hike and a rustic backcountry cabin.
• Eena Lake Recreation Site – Quiet recreation site with lakeside spots and great fishing.
• Klonzoe Lake Recreation Site – Remote, peaceful, and ideal for those wanting true solitude.

Camping in Prince George quickly becomes part of your routine rather than a once-a-year event. With dozens of lakes, endless crown land, and parks in every direction, residents are never more than an hour away from a campsite that feels like a holiday destination. Whether you prefer comfort, quiet, or adventure, this region offers a camping experience that fits every lifestyle.