Inside North Island Kayak’s Wilderness Basecamps
There are few adventures more memorable than paddling through wild coastal waters by day and sleeping beneath the stars by night. On northern Vancouver Island, North Island Kayak has refined this experience into something truly special. From our home base in Telegraph Cove, guests can embark on multi-day kayaking expeditions that include overnights at one of our exclusive wilderness basecamps, where comfort, sustainability, and spectacular scenery come together seamlessly.
Telegraph Cove, where our trips begin, is one of the last remaining boardwalk villages on Vancouver Island. Once a fishing and logging hub, it now serves as a launching point for eco-adventures that celebrate conservation and community. It is the perfect blend of history and wilderness.
Each basecamp is located along the tranquil channels and sheltered beaches of Johnstone Strait, one of the most biologically rich marine environments in British Columbia. After a full day on the water, there is nothing quite like pulling your kayak up on shore, warming your hands around a mug of tea, and watching the sun dip behind the mountains. Our region is one of the few places in the world where you can regularly hear the sounds of orcas communicating underwater from shore. The channels’ unique acoustics allow whale calls to carry for kilometres, creating a natural symphony that many guests remember long after they return home.
Our North Island Kayak basecamps are designed with comfort and sustainability in mind. Spacious tents are set up on raised wooden platforms, keeping you dry and comfortable no matter the weather. Each camp is equipped with a covered dining area where hearty, locally sourced meals are served, often featuring fresh ingredients from Vancouver Island. Hot drinks are always available, and evenings are spent sharing stories, identifying constellations, or quietly listening for whales passing in the night.
These multi-day camping trips are ideal for guests who want to experience the best of kayaking on Vancouver Island without sacrificing comfort. Everything is prepared for you, from gear and meals to the logistics of tides and weather, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of the coast. Our experienced guides lead daily excursions through kelp forests, among small islands, and into areas known for frequent orca and humpback activity. Each paddle offers a chance to witness the natural harmony of this marine environment up close.
Camping with North Island Kayak is not roughing it, it is reconnecting. You will fall asleep to the sound of waves, wake to the scent of cedar and salt air, and spend your days exploring an ocean alive with life. For many guests, it becomes more than a vacation; it becomes a reminder of how peaceful and powerful the natural world can be when experienced simply and respectfully.
Kayaking and camping in the Johnstone Strait is an adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left the cove behind. It is the best way to truly experience northern Vancouver Island, wild, quiet, and full of wonder!
