Why a BC staycation might be your best adventure yet
Image: Destination BC | Kari Medig
As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to rethink your travel plans—and consider the incredible adventures waiting right here in British Columbia.
Explore the adventures in your own backyard
One silver lining of the U.S.-Canada tensions is that British Columbians may be encouraged to explore more of their own backyards. In a province like ours, that choice still offers endless possibilities.
From mountain trails to quiet coastal inlets, there’s no shortage of outdoor places to explore. Whether you're cruising backroads on an ATV, setting up camp for the weekend, or paddling a multi-day canoe route, exploring close to home can be just as rewarding as a faraway trip—without the hassle of long-distance travel.
Local travel with a big impact
Staying local doesn’t just make planning easier—it also supports the people and places that make outdoor recreation in BC possible. Spending your vacation dollars within BC helps sustain small businesses, rural communities, and local guides and outfitters. Staycations can also come with a lighter environmental footprint. Shorter travel distances mean fewer emissions.
Plan Smart, Play Smart
BC’s most popular recreation spots—especially provincial and national parks—tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons. If you're thinking about a camping trip or backcountry adventure, it's worth booking early and planning ahead.
A few tips to make your staycation smoother:
Travel mid-week for quieter trails, more campsite options, and a more relaxed pace.
Explore beyond the hotspots—lesser-known parks and recreation sites often offer just as much natural beauty with far fewer people.
Ask around—friends, family, and local tourism websites are great for uncovering new places and local favourites.
Support the recreation groups behind the places you love
Many of BC’s trails, huts, campsites, or fishing opportunities exist thanks to the dedication of volunteer-run recreation groups. When you head outdoors, you're enjoying the results of their time, energy, and care.
If you value these spaces and opportunities, consider giving back—join a local club, lend a hand on a trail day, or support a volunteer group in your area. It’s a meaningful way to help sustain the places you love and recognize the many volunteers who make your outdoor experiences possible. Not sure where to start? Browse our directory to find a group near you.
Responsible recreation starts with you
At ORCBC, we believe that how we explore matters. Responsible recreation means respecting nature, local communities, and Indigenous territories, and ensuring BC’s outdoor spaces stay healthy and accessible for future generations.
Here are a few ways to tread lightly:
Leave no trace—pack out everything you bring in.
Stick to trails to protect sensitive ecosystems.
Give wildlife space—observe from a distance and never feed animals.
Be fire smart—know the rules and take precautions before lighting a campfire.
These small actions go a long way. Together, we can protect the places we love.
Your next adventure is closer than you think
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend escape or a longer backcountry trip, our landscapes here in BC offer something for everyone—without having to cross a border or hop on a plane.
By choosing to stay local, you’re not just making memories—you’re helping sustain the communities, ecosystems, and recreation opportunities that make BC such a special place to live and explore.