A part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, McDonald Campground is forested, with both sunny and shaded sites, near municipal parks and a community trail system. Only a few minutes from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal for access to the Gulf Islands and BC Mainland, and to the Sidney-Anacortes ferry terminal for access to the U.S. McDonald Campground is an excellent base of operations for exploring
both the Gulf Islands and the Greater Victoria area, for campers, RVers, and cyclists. Reservations are recommended for drive in RV and car camping sites, and can be made at reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca or 1-877-737-3783. Getting Here:
From Swartz Bay ferry terminal, head south on Patricia Bay Hwy/BC-17 S toward Victoria for approximately 2 km. Exit (on your right) at McDonald Park Road/Wain Road/Deep Cove, and follow for 250 m. Turn left onto Swartz Bay Rd (signs for BC-17 N/Ferries), and follow for 400 m. Turn right onto McDonald Park Rd (signs for Sidney), and follow for 225 m. From Victoria, head north on Patricia Bay Hwy/ BC-17 toward Swartz Bay/Ferries. Follow for approximately 28 km. Take Exit 31 to McDonald Park Rd toward Deep Cove/Wain Rd. Continue for 400 m on McDonald Park Rd. Street Address: 10740 McDonald Park Road, North Saanich, BC, V8L 5S5
Campground Info:
Open annually from May 15 – Sept 30
Check-in time is 2pm
Check-out time is11am
Campground is not staffed - Parks Canada staff members conduct periodic rounds
49 primitive campsites with picnic tables
Potable water
Pit toilets
Fire pits (firewood for sale onsite and locally)
Conveniently located in the beautiful seaside town of Sidney-by-the-Sea
Accessible via public transit (Route 72—Swartz Bay/Downtown)
GPS Coordinates: 48.673156, -123.425449
Visitors should expect some road noise from the adjacent highway
Cycling Specific Features:
Great access to the Lochside Cycling Trail, which runs from Swartz Bay to Downtown Victoria
Bike-Friendly walk-in sites close to entrance in pleasant wooded area, with communal campfire ring
