The Upper Campbell Reservoir Campground is a new campground that opened in 2021. Before the campground was built, it used to be a series of manmade campsites the locals called “Little America” because it was popular with our American neighbours.
When BC Hydro decided to shut down the Strathcona Dam Campground because of renovations to the dam itself were upcoming, they partnered with Mosaic Forest Management and created the new campground.
I have to say this is one of the nicest campgrounds I’ve been to in a while. The road to it is in good shape with a few potholes and the campground is only 1-2 kms off of highway 28. It is very easy to find, just follow the big blue signs to the campground entrance. And the real bonus is all this for free year round.
If you are looking for great RV camping on Vancouver Island this is one awesome spot with plenty of room for larger Motorhomes and trailers. I found the campsites and pit toilets to be very clean and comfortable.
The majestic views of the mountain ranges inside Strathcona Park to the west take your breath away. Especially this time of year (Feb 2026) with all the snow topped peaks.
The mountain peaks that stood out were Elkhorn Mountain (7198 ft) and Kings Peak (6775ft). Their presence is hard to ignore as they tower above the other mountains around them. On the right day with the right light it is a photographers happy place.
Tidbits
Campsite Rules
The following rules are expected to be followed when camping at the campsites. A little more strict than most free recreation sites on the island but considering all the effort and time put into building this campground, I believe they are justified.
How to Get To The Campground
If you want to find this beautiful spot to camp, first travel to Vancouver Island, BC Canada. Once there drive up island to Campbell River. Next follow highway 28 for about 28km to the Strathcona Dam turnoff. Go about 500 yards and turn left. Drive another 1/4 km to the gate at the campground entrance.
Use the form below to find out how to get to the campground from your starting point using Google Maps.
Fishing on Upper Campbell Lake
Although I didn’t fish this time around, I have fished Upper Campbell Lake in the past with great success from a boat. The lake holds Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Vardon Char and Rainbow Trout.
I have friends who fish the lake regularly from shore at various spots with success also. They mainly use a bobber and a worm. Trolling from a boat is the most popular way to fish the lake.
The average size for the fish ranges from 30 cm to 50 cm but I know people who have caught some huge fish in this lake. I know someone who catches 3-5 lb fish frequently. Although he won’t tell me his secret honey hole. He just bought a smaller boat for lake fishing so hopefully he will take me with him one day. 😉 😉
Summing Up The Upper Campbell Reservoir Campground
Overall I had a really good time camping here and was impressed by the cleanliness of everything. There were garbage cans with recycle bins beside them and there were boxes of doggy doo bags for your leisure. The beach was very accessible with trails and a small creek ran through the campground which was nice.
The boat launch was nice and wide and well maintained. There are info kiosks for campers to read about the history of the area.
If I had one gripe it was the noise from the constant traffic on highway 28 but after a while I was able to tune it out. I also stayed at the far end of the campground (campsite 19) which is closer to the highway. But as I walked through the the campgrounds I could still hear the traffic at the first campsite also.
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