Campbell River

Campbell River sits on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, where the Discovery Passage meets the Strait of Georgia. The city extends along the shoreline, with views across to forested islands and mountains on the opposite side of the water.

Coast Salish peoples lived here first, before Kwakwaka'wakw groups moved down from the north in the 18th century. European settlers arrived later and built a timber economy that shaped the growth of the modern town.

The city takes its name from the river that flows into the sea here. Local anglers still head out to the famous salmon grounds offshore, where strong currents meet calm water.

An airport connects the town to other parts of the island, while ferries run regularly to nearby islands. The coastal location means weather can often be damp, especially in autumn and winter.

The currents in the water off the town attract many large fish, drawing anglers here for decades. A hydroelectric facility upstream has windows built in, allowing visitors to watch salmon on their journey in autumn.

Location: Strathcona Regional District

Inception: 1855

Elevation above the sea: 24 m

Website: https://campbellriver.ca

GPS coordinates: 50.02444,-125.24750

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:52