Tourism Sector

Campbell River, or Wiwek’am, is located on the East Coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It's within the traditional territory of the We Wai Kai and Wei Wai Kum First Nations, in the Northern Strait of Georgia.

Sitting on the 50th parallel, the City of Campbell River is nestled into nature. There are five provincial parks surrounding the region and the Discovery Passage right at its front door. With its mild year-round climate and abundant outdoor activities, Campbell River is the place for exploration. Tourism-related businesses support hundreds of employees, and are a large part of the local economy.

Interest and growth are expanding. With investments in eco-tourism, Indigenous-led projects, and nature-based experiences, we've seen an increase in visitation year over year.

Campbell River Tourism Sector Overview [PDF/4.3MB]

Competitive Environment

Tourism in Campbell River continues on a positive trajectory. Visitation numbers are up and Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) revenues are reported at $498,622 (Source: MRDT Grant Reconciliation Summary 2019). The industry remains in a period of growth, as reputation and awareness continue to gain traction in key markets. The Campbell River brand is built on the vibrancy of the locals and the natural opportunities that the City offers.

Campbell River, “City in the Wild,” has support from local First Nations, developers and business owners. We continue to collaborate and cross-promote to build a year-round tourism industry. Significant opportunities remain to increase room inventory, adventure experiences and value-add products that will strengthen the position of Campbell River as an alluring destination.

Municipal Support

The City has embraced tourism as a part of the City’s over all economic picture. The City has hired an international Destination Marketing Organization and continues to invest in the industry by hosting networking events and offering professional development opportunities. The City’s commitment to tourism also means supporting destination marketing activities with committed funding. In partnership with Destination BC and Destination Campbell River, we run a robust Visitor Experiences program.

Land and Real Estate

Campbell River has ample space for establishing a tourism related business, including:

  • 50+ acres of vacant C-4 commercial land suitable for highway commercial uses and accommodation properties
  • 20+ acres of vacant C-5 commercial land, which is waterfront land intended for recreational, tourist or marine oriented uses

(Source: Campbell River Employment Land Strategy)

Transportation

Campbell River is well-connected to major travel hubs, such as Vancouver and Victoria:

  • Campbell River Airport (YBL) has recently undergone major updates and improvements, and is a
    designated Port of Entry with 6,500 ft. of runway.
  • Major highways connect Campbell River to urban centres south, and rural destinations north and
    west.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Campbell River boasts unparalleled access to nature and the wilderness of BC’s coast. Within 30 minutes of town, activities include:

  • whale and wildlife viewing
  • world-class hiking
  • skiing
  • mountain biking
  • fresh and saltwater fishing
  • kayak tours
  • accessible trails
  • flightseeing
  • cold-water diving
  • breweries and distilleries

Due to our mild climate, most of these activities are available and enjoyable year-round.

Education and Training Opportunities

North Island College and nearby institutions offer several programs and courses that support Campbell River’s tourism sector, including:

  • Tourism and Hospitality Management
  • Culinary Arts
  • Administrative programs
  • Accounting and Bookkeeping
  • Business programs
  • Adventure Guiding Certificate