Reservations open at expanded China Beach campground near Sooke

With the summer months in sight, the time to book a campsite is nearly here.

Reservations open May 1 for the newly upgraded campsites at China Beach for arrivals between the campground’s opening day on May 15 until Sept. 1. After that, reservations will be available on a four-month rolling window.

This year, 13 new campsites have been added to the popular campground, bringing the total number to 125. Eight new sites are drive-in tent sites, while the remaining five are walk-in only. Two accessible shower and flush-toilet buildings are also included in the project, which will incorporate universal design standards where possible to create more accessible facilities.

“For so many people, camping is a way to connect with family and friends and spend time together in nature,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “That’s why we’re building more capacity with new, accessible campsites on Vancouver Island, as more people choose to vacation within Canada and support our economy.”

BC Parks conducted the expansion project at China Beach alongside the Pacheedaht First Nation, on whose territory Juan de Fuca Park is located.

The 13 new sites will bolster the 33 campsites added in spring 2024 as part of a $2.3-million expansion project at China Beach. The day-use parking area will also be upgraded in fall 2025 to accommodate an increasing number of visitors.

The new parking area will accommodate 45 new stalls, a dedicated space for RVs, a turnaround area for large vehicles, and a service centre with a pit toilet, bike racks and an information shelter.

“I’m pleased that BC Parks is delivering opportunities for more people to enjoy the natural environment at our doorstep by providing additional campsites and parking expansions at China Beach campground and day-use area,” said Dana Lajeunesse, MLA for Juan de Fuca-Malahat.

“I was fortunate to have spent my childhood here, and I have many fond memories of the spectacular beaches in the area. BC Parks are more popular than ever, and I’m happy to see more opportunities for families and friends to enjoy more of what B.C. has to offer.”

The campground’s rolling upgrades are part of a $21.5-million investment to increase and improve opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout British Columbia.