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.
Lunch in the Square: River Boys
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaCome downtown Tuesday afternoons all summer long in Campbell River to enjoy live music.
Perseid Meteor Shower Peak βοΈ
Learn where to look and what time for the best chance to see the Perseids.
Check Out the Beach This Morning!
Jaycee Park & Willow Point Reef 2500 S Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaExplore, learn, and enjoy amazing experiences at the shore during an extra low tide morning.
Low Tide Morning: Time for Exploring the Beach
Jaycee Park & Willow Point Reef 2500 S Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaDiscover over 80 marine species at low tide! Explore, learn, and capture amazing experiences by the shore.
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!
Boogie Nights: Family Friendly Dance Party
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaJoin the community at Spirit Square on Sunday nights for dancing, music, activities, and summer memories with friends.
Free Gentle Yoga in the Park
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!
Astrocolor Retro Dance Party Downtown
Shoppers Row 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaShow up, wear something bright, and be ready to dance the night away!
La Chinga: Live Free Concert in Campbell River
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaFeel the thunder! La Chinga brings powerhouse rock to the stage...join the fun for a high-energy night with friends!
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 Preschool Play Gym
Community Centre 401 11th Ave, Campbell River, BC, CanadaJoin in for free preschool playtime every Monday at the Community Centre Gym!
Lunch in the Square: Tightrope
Spirit Square Campbell River 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaBring your lunch down and enjoy free performances every Tuesday at noon at Spirit Square!
Flow Yoga in the Park: Free Class
Robert Ostler Park 922 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaDonβt miss FREE Yoga in the Park! Experience diverse routines led by certified instructors.
Swing Night Dance Party Downtown
Shoppers Row 1287 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC, CanadaTry swing dancing with live music and dance lessons in an open, welcoming atmosphereβno experience required.
Jazz & Blues Night on the Anchor Inn Deck
Anchor Inn and Suites 261 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC, CanadaChill out, listen to live tunes, and catch the sunset on the deck of the Anchor Inn tonight.