August 6 – August 13
Hey fellow stargazers, it’s that time again! The Perseid Meteor Shower is ready to light up the skies in 2025, and Vancouver Island is a prime spot.
This guide will tell you how, when, and where to view the Perseid Meteor Showers on Vancouver Island (including in Campbell River).
A Bit About the Perseids
Every year, Earth drifts through debris left by the comet Swift-Tuttle. This cosmic dust creates an incredible meteor display.
I find it both amazing and a bit humbling. 🌌
Where and How to Watch
On Vancouver Island, there are some great spots — but anywhere away from city lights & pollution with a view of the northeast will work.
Here are a few specific locations to look into on Vancouver Island:
- Cattle Point (Victoria) – This is a designated Urban Star Park with dark, starry skies and is a great spot for meteor showers.
- Pipers Lagoon (Nanaimo) – Park outside the yellow gates & walk out to the peninsula. Also try areas in out of the way along Nanaimo Lakes rd.
- Horne Lake (mid-Island) – Great star watching here if you can get a camp spot during the showers.
- Forbidden Plateau (Comox) – Always great for skygazing, check out nearby Kin Beach and Kye Bay.
- Buttle Lake (Strathcona Park): Laying on the beach at Buttle watching the meteor showers is one of my all-time-fav memories.
Best Spots around Campbell River:
- McIvor Lake – Far enough away from the lights for a good view!
- Elk Falls Provincial Park – The playground park in the campsite area is my go-to. It’s got plenty of dark sky.
- Campbell Lake – Find a spot with a view open to the northeast and you are set!
- Rebecca Spit on Quadra Island: A short ferry ride and you’re all set with wide-open sky views.
- Anywhere away from city lights with a clear view to the northeast works too. Keep it simple!
How to Find Perseus in the Night Sky:
Focus your gaze northeast, around the constellation Perseus. This is a good video explaining how to find Perseus:
Bits and Tips
After midnight to dawn on August 10th and 11th should be the best times, but any time from August 6ish onward is worth looking up for!
As for weather, fingers crossed for clear skies, but we all know how unpredictable that can be this time of year. 🤞
It’s interesting how the meteor shower timing aligns with the salmon runs on the Quinsam & Campbell rivers. This is one of my favorite times of the year.
So, grab a blanket and settle in for the show. And make a wish when you catch a glimpse of those shooting stars! ✨
