There is something timeless about sitting beside a fire, its warmth licking at your cheeks as sparks fly into the night sky. My first camping trip in Richmond, British Columbia, was a mixture of excitement, nervousness, and awe. I had spent years traveling to the nearby mountains for camping, but when I decided to pitch a tent right here in Richmond, I discovered a quieter, gentler kind of wilderness. Richmond, surrounded by river, farmland, and coastal marshes, is not a place most people immediately associate with camping. Yet as I learned, its landscapes hold their own magic.
That night, as the fire flickered low and I stretched out on my back, the stars above Richmond glimmered far more brightly than I expected. I could see Orion’s belt tracing across the horizon, and the faint line of the Milky Way hovered over the Fraser River delta. For me, Richmond camping became not just about escaping the city but about finding wonder in a place that is both natural and deeply connected to community.
Why Richmond for Camping?
Most travelers to British Columbia think of Whistler, Squamish, or the North Shore mountains when planning an outdoor trip. Richmond, however, offers a special contrast. It is only minutes away from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), yet its flat coastal terrain and abundance of green spaces make it ideal for beginner-friendly camping trips or short weekend escapes. Unlike rugged mountain camping, Richmond offers riverfront trails, farmland vistas, and parks where the sound of frogs and crickets can easily lull you to sleep.
The real joy is accessibility. I’ve often flown back into Vancouver late at night, picked up my car rental directly from YVR through Expedia.ca, and within 20 minutes I was sitting at a Richmond campsite with a fire crackling beside me. For those who want a mix of wilderness and convenience, Richmond is almost unbeatable.
Top Camping Spots in Richmond
1. McDonald Beach Park
Location: Near YVR Airport, accessible via McDonald Road off Templeton Street
My very first Richmond camping experience was at McDonald Beach Park, a peaceful site tucked along the north arm of the Fraser River. While it isn’t a formal campground with all the facilities you might find at provincial parks, its riverside charm makes it a hidden favorite among locals. Many families come here for daytime picnics, dog walks, or evenings by the fire, but with a bit of preparation, it transforms into a magical overnight spot.
What makes McDonald Beach truly memorable is the combination of nature and modern life. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the river glowed gold and the silhouettes of boats drifted lazily across the water. Later, when night fell, I lay on my blanket watching stars twinkle overhead, only to see airplanes soaring gracefully into the sky from YVR. It felt surreal—the stillness of the river alongside the quiet hum of departing flights created an unusual balance of wilderness and connection to the world beyond.
Features:
- Wide sandy riverfront perfect for pitching tents
- Fire pits for evening gatherings (though I prefer bringing my own firewood)
- Long, dog-friendly trails that are ideal for a walk after dinner
Cost: Free entry, with small parking fees during peak hours.
Tips: Pack mosquito spray in summer, and always bring extra layers for the cool river breeze. Because there are no showers or restrooms for overnight use, I usually keep a backup hotel reserved nearby through Booking.com, just in case the weather shifts suddenly or comfort calls.
2. Terra Nova Rural Park
Location: 2631 Westminster Highway, Northwest Richmond
This park holds a special place in my heart. Terra Nova combines farmland, wetlands, and wild meadows into one of the most peaceful areas of Richmond. While it’s not a fully serviced campground, local families often set up evening picnics and camp-style gatherings here, complete with portable fire pits.
What struck me most was the feeling of openness. One night, I set up a blanket on the grass, lit a small portable stove, and watched the sun sink behind the trees. As the sky darkened, the chorus of frogs began, and bats flitted overhead. I lay back, gazing up at the stars, and felt utterly removed from city life, even though downtown Richmond was only a few kilometers away.
Features:
- Expansive meadows and farmland views
- Raised wooden boardwalks over wetlands
- Close to Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment for families
Cost: Free entry. Overnight stays require checking with the city for special permits.
Tips: If you want to pair your evening with food, order dinner through OpenTable at nearby Steveston restaurants, then head to Terra Nova for stargazing afterward.
3. Iona Beach Regional Park
Location: Iona Island Causeway, north of Sea Island
Camping at Iona Beach is an adventure that feels like stepping into another world. The park’s long jetty extends straight into the Strait of Georgia, creating the perfect foreground for night-sky photography. I pitched my tent just behind the dunes, the ocean on one side and tidal marshes on the other.
At night, the waves provided a rhythm, while the stars stretched endlessly above the horizon. The Milky Way appeared faint but visible, and I managed to capture it on camera, the jetty creating a leading line that drew the eye toward the heavens.
Features:
- 4 km jetty into the ocean, ideal for astrophotography
- Windswept dunes and tidal flats
- Variety of birdlife during the day, especially migratory species
Cost: Free entry. Parking fees apply.
Tips: The wind can be fierce, so bring sturdy tent stakes. Also, check tide charts before visiting—the reflections at low tide can make for breathtaking photos.
4. South Dyke Trail Camping Spots
Location: Along the Fraser River, South Richmond
The South Dyke Trail is known for cycling and walking, but I once used a riverside spot for an overnight camping adventure. The river flowed quietly, and as dusk settled in, I lit a small fire and roasted marshmallows. The night was serene—occasional fishermen passed by, and the glow of nearby boathouses created an atmospheric backdrop.
Features:
- Riverside trail with scenic camping pull-offs
- Views of rustic boathouses and drifting logs
- Peaceful, less crowded atmosphere
Cost: Free.
Tips: Facilities are limited, so bring all your own gear, including water. I usually rent camping equipment in Vancouver through MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op), which can be booked online.
Stargazing in Richmond
One of the biggest surprises for me was just how visible the stars can be from Richmond. While Vancouver’s light pollution is significant, Richmond’s wide, flat geography and open coastal areas offer clear horizons. The best nights are cool, crisp evenings in autumn or winter, when the air is dry.
I often use the PhotoPills app to check moon phases and Milky Way visibility before planning a camping night. One of my favorite shots was at Iona Beach in October, where the Milky Way arched gracefully over the jetty, and a small campfire glowed warmly in the frame.
Costs and Booking Essentials
Camping in Richmond is refreshingly affordable. Most parks are free, and those that require parking fees are minimal compared to formal campgrounds elsewhere in BC. The main expenses are gear, food, and transportation.
- Flights: I usually book flights into YVR through Google Flights or Expedia.ca, which help me compare deals across airlines.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is essential for reaching Richmond’s coastal parks. I’ve had good experiences with Hertz and Avis, both available directly at YVR.
- Accommodation Backup: For trips when camping isn’t possible due to weather, I rely on Booking.com or Hotels.com for nearby hotels.
- Dining: Steveston Village offers countless dining options. I use OpenTable to secure spots at popular places like Blue Canoe.
- Tours and Extras: Platforms like GetYourGuide are great for booking additional activities, like whale-watching tours that complement a camping trip.
Practical Tips for Richmond Camping
- Check Local Rules: Some parks allow fires, others require permits or designated pits. Always confirm before lighting one.
- Bring Layers: Even in July, nights can drop to chilly temperatures by the water.
- Bug Control: Mosquitoes near the river can be intense in summer—pack repellent.
- Leave No Trace: Richmond parks are heavily used by locals, so keeping them clean is crucial.
- Photography Prep: A sturdy tripod and remote shutter release are invaluable for capturing stars.
- Backup Plans: Always have nearby indoor lodging reserved on Booking.com in case weather turns.
- Local Food Pairing: Pick up fresh seafood in Steveston and cook it over your campfire—it’s an experience in itself.
The Feeling of Firelight and Stars
For me, camping in Richmond has never been about rugged wilderness—it’s about the intimacy of firelight, the simplicity of stargazing, and the joy of discovering beauty right next to a bustling city. Whether I was sitting on the sand at McDonald Beach, watching jets cross the night sky, or listening to frogs sing at Terra Nova, each moment reminded me that connection with nature doesn’t always require distance.
Every time I pack up my tent after a Richmond camping night, I carry a sense of renewal. The stars over the delta, the glow of the fire, and the laughter of friends gathered around—it all feels like a reminder that even the busiest travelers need stillness. Richmond, with its blend of accessibility and natural wonder, gave me that stillness, one firelit evening at a time.
