Tofino and Pacific Rim by RV

Quick summary: Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, on Vancouver Island’s wild west coast, are a bucket-list destination for an RV road trip. The drive from Nanaimo on Highway 4 takes around three hours, passing the giant trees of Cathedral Grove and the shores of Kennedy Lake on a winding mountain section. At the coast, Long Beach, Ucluelet and Tofino offer surfing, rainforest trails and storm watching, with campgrounds suited to a campervan or motorhome.

At a glance
From Nanaimo	Around 3 hours via Highway 4
Stops	Cathedral Grove, Port Alberni, Kennedy Lake
Highlights	Long Beach, rainforest trails, surfing
Towns	Tofino and Ucluelet
Campgrounds	Book well ahead in summer
Tours	Whale watching tours

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What is the Highway 4 drive like in an RV?

Scenic but demanding. The section near Kennedy Lake is narrow and winding, with steep grades. Drive slowly, use pullouts, and allow extra time. Check road reports for closures before setting off.

What are the highlights?

Place	Why go
Cathedral Grove	Ancient Douglas firs beside the highway
Long Beach	Long sandy beach in the national park
Rainforest trails	Boardwalks through old-growth forest
Ucluelet	Wild Pacific Trail along the cliffs
Tofino	Surfing, whale watching, seaplane trips

Where can an RV stay near Tofino?

At the national park campground near Long Beach, or private campgrounds in Tofino and Ucluelet. Sites book out quickly for summer, so reserve as early as possible.

Do you need a park pass?

Yes, for stops in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Passes can be bought online or at the park.

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Frequently Asked Questions