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
ποΈ 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.
π 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.
π£ 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.
π¨ Browse Public Art, Carvings & & Murals – Campbell River has several murals and public art installations around downtown that you can explore on foot.
ποΈ Walk the Museum Grounds – Campbell River’s award-winning museum has plenty on display outside including a well-labeled botanical garden of local plants.
π₯Ύ Go Hiking or Biking – So many trails from beginner to advanced. A good, easily accessible spot to start is Beaver Lodge Lands.
πͺ¨ Try Rockhounding – Find some cool rocks at the river, beaches, and streams around Campbell River. Explore the Rock Shop and annual the Rock Show.
β±οΈ 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.
πΆββοΈ Walk the Rotary Seawalk – A 6 km paved walkway that follows the shoreline of the Discovery Passage with picnic tables, viewing benches, and sandy beaches along the way.
π¦ Bird Watching – The estuary areas, Tyee Spit, and various parks offer excellent opportunities to spot local and migratory birds.
π Visit the Campbell River Library – Often hosts free events, workshops, and has a beautiful space to relax and read.
π 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.
π² Nature Photography – With all the stunning scenery, trails, and wildlife, Campbell River is perfect for amateur photographers looking to practice their skills.
π 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.
π₯ 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.
π΅ Music in the Square – Spirit Square hosts free outdoor concerts all summer long. See the schedule below for dates and times.
π Dance Lessons – The city is putting on a variety of dance lessons in the summer. From line-dancing to salsa… so many cool options.
πΊ 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.
Chainsaw Carving Competition
Frank James Park 2084 S Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaLearn the details about this famous annual event, and how to participate as a carver.
River Concerts: Live Music with Beau Wheeler
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaCelebrate Pride Week with live music! Beau Wheeler brings soulful songs and community spirit to Spirit Square.
Campbell River Pride 2025 Celebration π
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaThe dates been announced, here's what we know so far, and info for vendor and performer applications.
Free Preschool Play Gym
Community Centre 401 11th Ave, Campbell River, BC, CanadaJoin in for free preschool playtime every Monday at the Community Centre Gym!
Canada Day Celebration & Fireworks
Robert Ostler Park 922 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaReady for Canada Day fun? Check out the schedule with parades, cake, and fireworks!
Special Pro Wrestling Event
Willow Point Community Hall 2165 South Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, CanadaCheck out exciting pro-wrestling action in Campbell River at Willow Point Hall on Canada Day. π₯
Cara Luft: Free Concert at Spirit Square
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaCatch an inspiring outdoor concert with Juno winner Cara Luft. Bring friends, grab a spot, and enjoy the music!
Boogie Nights: Family Friendly Dance Party
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaDance, laugh, and connect this summer! Join the fun every Sunday night for music, prizes, and good vibes for everyone.
Free Yoga in the Park Sessions
Robert Ostler Park 922 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaJoin in on Yoga in the Park! Experience different styles with certified instructors in a stunning outdoor venue!
El Balcon: Free Live Performance
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaExperience lively acoustic sounds and fresh world rhythms with El BalcΓ³n!
Paris Pick Live Music at Spirit Square
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaDonβt miss Paris Pickβs high-energy show to enjoy retro yacht pop and fun summer vibes!
Autocross Afternoon at Saratoga Speedway
Saratoga Speedway 2380 Macaulay Rd, Black Creek, BC, CanadaDonβt miss free bleacher seating and thrilling Autocross action at the speedway!
Line Dancing in Spirit Square
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaGet ready to dance your way through summer with the Step-In Line Dancers, who bring the excitement of country music to downtown!
Time Well Wasted: Live at Spirit Square
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaLive horns, powerhouse singers, and your favourite hits await! Make your summer night special with Time Well Wasted in concert.
Yoga in the Park
Robert Ostler Park 922 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaCome downtown for Yoga in the Park! Experience fun routines led by certified instructors.