Free Things to Do & Events around Campbell River

There are so many free activities to do around town!

This guide will first tell you about my favorite activities you can do almost anytime, and the next section features a detailed & frequently updated calendar of today’s and upcoming free events and things to do.

Best Free Activities & Things to Do

πŸ–οΈ Beachcombing & Tidepooling – A fantastic activity for any age. Check the tide tables and be mindful. Willow Point Reef is a good spot on extra low tides.

πŸŒ‰ Check out the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge – Considered a “must-see” feature of Vancouver Island, Elk Falls is even more spectacular when seen from above on our suspension bridge.

🎣 Walk the Discovery Pier – Get an awesome view of the ocean and Quadra Island, and maybe see people land a salmon at our famous pier. note: while free, you will really want to spend a few dollars at the pier’s Ice Cream stand.

🎨 Browse Public Art, Carvings & & Murals – Campbell River has several murals, public art installations, driftwood carvings & amazing sculptures around town that you can explore on foot.

πŸ›οΈ Walk the Museum Grounds – Campbell River’s award-winning museum has plenty on display outside including a well-labeled botanical garden of local plants.

πŸ₯Ύ Go Hiking or Biking – So many trails from beginner to advanced. A good, easily accessible spot to start is Beaver Lodge Lands.

πŸͺ¨ Try Rockhounding – Find some cool rocks at the river, beaches, and streams around Campbell River. Explore the Rock Shop and annual the Rock Show.

⛱️ Explore Rotary Beach Park – Right on the ocean, south of Campbell River City Parks and Trails, this park features chainsaw carvings and connects to the famous seawalk.

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walk the Rotary SeawalkA 6 km paved walkway that follows the shoreline of the Discovery Passage with picnic tables, viewing benches, and sandy beaches along the way.

πŸ¦… Bird Watching – The estuary areas, Tyee Spit, and various parks offer excellent opportunities to spot local and migratory birds.

πŸ“š Visit the Campbell River Library – Often hosts free events, workshops, and has a beautiful space to relax and read.

πŸ„ Forage for Mushrooms & More – Campbell River is a fantastic area to learn the art of living off the land and foraging free yummy things to eat.

🌲 Nature Photography – With all the stunning scenery, trails, and wildlife, Campbell River is perfect for amateur photographers looking to practice their skills.

🏁 Free Racing Events – Just a few KMs south of Campbell River, the Saratoga Motorsports speedway puts on a few free shows each year, including their “Trunk or Treat” Halloween season closer with a fantastic fireworks display.

πŸ₯• Farmer’s Market – While there’s plenty to buy, it’s also ok to just show up and enjoy the free live entertainment each Sunday.

🎡 Music in the SquareSpirit Square hosts free outdoor concerts all summer long. See the schedule below for dates and times.

πŸ’ƒ Dance Lessons – The city is putting on a variety of dance lessons in the summer. From line-dancing to salsa… so many cool options.

πŸ•Ί Boogie Nights Dance Parties – Sunday evenings downtown Campbell River will actually have something going on this year. Amazing!

Free Things to Do Schedule

Here’s a schedule of free events in Campbell River over then next few months.

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Today

Salmon & Bear Watching at the Hatchery

Quinsam River Hatchery 4217 Argonaut Road, Campbell River, BC, Canada

It's a great time to visit the Quinsam Hatchery for a self-guided tour, and walk the trails next to the river for wildlife watching

Free

Boogie Nights: Family Friendly Dance Party

Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, Canada

Dance, laugh, and connect this summer! Join the fun every Sunday night for music, prizes, and good vibes for everyone.

Free

Annual Plein Air Paint Out

Sybil Andrews Cottage 2131 S Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, Canada

See landscape artists in action at the Campbell River Paint Out, and check out the exhibit of fresh outdoor paintings on Sunday.

Free

Campbell River Fall Home Show 🏠

Campbell River Sportsplex 1800 South Alder Street, Campbell River, BC, Canada

Meet home experts, grab show specials, and get inspired at the free Fall Home Show for all your home projects!

Free

Spirit Fair: Tarot, Crystals, Astrology and More

Willow Point Community Hall 2165 South Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, Canada

Explore booths from psychics, energy healers, angel and tarot card readers you can find on Vancouver Island.✨

Free

Repair Cafe at the Sportsplex ♻️

Campbell River Sportsplex 1800 South Alder Street, Campbell River, BC, Canada

Repair, reuse, and rediscover! Get your stuff fixed for free or browse deals at this friendly, community event.

Free