Nestled on the east coast of central Vancouver Island, and long known as the Salmon Capital of the World, Campbell River is a natural destination, in more ways than one.

Capture the spirit of Campbell River ... stroll in sea breezes on Discovery Pier and you might see a salmon, eagle, or whale. Take in views of Discovery Passage, Quadra Island and, in the distance, the rugged Coast Mountain range of mainland British Columbia. Explore trails along Campbell River's namesake, a designated British Columbia Heritage River. Restore your soul amidst streams and lakes in forests kept green by the mild Pacific Coast climate.

We are also your gateway to Strathcona Park, the Discovery Islands, and remote north and west Vancouver Island. In these renowned wilderness destinations, you'll find a world of mountains, coastlines, and islands just waiting to be explored.

Our communities offer a wide range of visitor services, so make this the year to discover the nature-and spirit-of Campbell River.

Finally, don't forget to check out our Visitor Services section for a comprehensive listing of accommodation, tours and activity providers in the Campbell River area.

Salmon
Our Heritage...
   Our Legacy

For thousands of years, from the time of First Nations' villages to the arrival of European explorers and eventually permanent settlement, the rhythm of life in this region has flowed with the movement of the salmon. Our salmon and the waters they travel are an intrinsic part of our heritage ... they're our legacy too, and one that we invite you to share in.

In this setting, you're not just watching the drama unfold; you're part of it! As the sun rises over British Columbia's Coast Mountain ranges, the coastline of Discovery Passage comes to life. Just a short ferry ride across the water, Quadra and neighbouring islands awaken under a blanket of firs and cedars. Cape Mudge lighthouse blinks warnings to seafaring passers-by. When slack tide approaches, yachts, fish boats, tugs, freighters, and enormous Alaska-bound cruise ships line up to navigate Seymour Narrows' tricky waters. In Campbell River, you can enjoy this constantly changing panorama from our seaside walkways, restaurants and accommodations.

Homebound salmon travel through Discovery Passage on their final journey to the spawning grounds. The salmon's life cycle of hatching, feeding in the river, traveling to the ocean and eventually returning to its birth river, attracts and sustains a wide variety of wildlife-bears, eagles, whales, otters, ravens and others. It's also spawned a centuries-old culture unique to the Pacific Northwest.

Visit for tours, day trips, workshops, cultural events and family activities focusing on specific species of wildlife: bears and other land animals; eagles and other birds of flight; and marine animals, including the salmon and whales that slip through Discovery Passage.

Campbell River's salmon keep time with the ebb and flow of the tides ... and the seasons too. Every autumn, when salmon head upstream to spawn, eagles, bears, and other wildlife join in their quest for survival. Only at times like these are these wonders of the wild in such close contact with each other. At a distance, you too can be there, whether walking amidst the falling maple leaves at Quinsam River Hatchery, or-for an unforgettable thrill-snorkeling with the salmon as they enter the Campbell River.

No matter what the season, witness the life cycle of Campbell River's magnificent salmon. Just visit a local waterway, such as Haig-Brown Kingfisher Creek, that hosts salmon enhancement and stewardship programs. With legacy projects like these, sport fishing continues to attract visitors to the region. Best of all, you don't even need a boat-just cast your line off Discovery Pier and perhaps you'll hook the big one! Or challenge the odds, and go home a member of the famous Tyee Club, a Campbell River tradition since 1925, and a true test of angling skill.

As you'll see for yourself, fresh-caught fish and shellfish are one of not-to-be-missed specialties. You can catch your own, in season, or head to local shops and restaurants for a taste of Campbell River's bounty. If you're dining near the water, you may spot a seal partaking of his salmon lunch while you enjoy yours. Besides seafood, our area's restaurants feature a wide variety of delicious cuisine from take-out to fine dining.

True to its heritage, Campbell River hosts a busy arts and culture scene. Drop by the community theatre, public art gallery, or the many local shops that feature works by local artists, including authentic First Nations' art, jewelry, and carvings. Step back in history at the Campbell River and Kwagiulth museums. Browse First Nations' treasures, take in a cultural performance ... let yourself be swept worlds away.

Campbell River is also your gateway to outdoor recreation and eco-touring. For summertime seclusion, or winter snow activities, venture into Strathcona Provincial Park, where the mountains draw climbers, heli-skiers, and other enthusiasts from around the world. Continue into remote reaches of north or west Vancouver Island. Head offshore to the Discovery Islands' region for whale watching, kayaking, and other unparalleled wilderness opportunities.

So come and discover Campbell River, and feel the rhythms of an oceanside community, where salmon are our heritage ... and our cherished legacy.