Camping continues to be a major contributor to British Columbia’s economy, according to the 2025 Value of Camping in BC Report released by the Camping and RVing BC Coalition in partnership with Align Consulting Group.
The report shows the province’s camping and RVing sector generates CA$2.1 billion in GDP, sustains 19,000 jobs, and produces nearly CA$960 million in tax revenue annually.
With more than 2,200 campgrounds and over 52,000 campsites across the province, the sector has grown into a cornerstone of BC’s tourism economy.
The report highlights the integral role campgrounds play in supporting local businesses, attracting tourism, and strengthening rural economies.
A significant portion of the province’s population actively participates in camping. According to the report, 63% of British Columbians have camped or RVed at some point, and 38% have done so in the past two years.
In 2022, over 720,000 BC households went camping, signaling continued interest in outdoor recreation.
Private campgrounds also attract a geographically diverse customer base. Of all campers visiting private sites in BC, 56% are residents of the province.
Visitors from Alberta make up 17%, while the remainder includes 7% from other Canadian provinces, 9% from the United States, and 11% from international markets.
Another aspect is spending by campers. It contributes substantially to local economies. BC residents spend about CA$816 million annually on camping trips, while Alberta visitors add an additional CA$312 million. These figures represent direct economic inputs into hospitality, retail, and service sectors.
Average spending per person per night also underscores the strength of the market. The report notes that BC residents spend CA$133.62 per person per night, while Alberta residents spend CA$117.14.
The camping industry’s impact extends beyond travel and accommodation. The report identifies CA$1.3 billion spent on travel-related activities, CA$384 million on camping gear and related services, CA$84 million in retail sales and services, and CA$54 million in manufacturing sales.
From basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts, BC’s diverse campground offerings appeal to a wide range of travelers. The infrastructure and services provided at these sites contribute to guest satisfaction and repeat visitation, which in turn boosts economic returns for local communities.