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The Willingdon Beach Campsite is located in Powell River along BC’s scenic Sunshine Coast.
Words by Steve Fennell
The pure nature alone of the Sunshine Coast makes it a prime RV destination any time of the year. However, the hospitality of the Willingdon Beach Campsite and the welcoming local community of Powell River make short and long-term stays here that much more enjoyable
This is just one RV park on the BC Coast that readily serves snowbirds and transient RVers all year. This includes the winter, given the area’s temperate climate, scenic shoreline, and variety of services and activities on its grounds and in the nearby city centre.
The Willingdon Beach Campsite was a popular destination during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic for wintering Canadian RVers. What’s interesting, the park and community still draw snowbirds staying north of the border during the cold months as well as transient RVers seeking many outdoor pastimes.
Located on the shore of the Georgia Strait with rich, old-growth forests in the immediate area, the park offers a true north coast escape while never being far from all the essentials, outdoor recreation and social activities.
Willingdon Beach Campsite RV Sites and Facilities
A range of sites are available and the most popular are the beachfront locations. Complete with power, they can accommodate rigs up to 10 m (34 ft) and offer excellent views of the sparkling Salish Sea. Full-service sites further in the park are another popular option and can accommodate RVs ranging from 7-14 m (24-45 ft). But there are a total of 83 locations that are quiet yet still accessible to the park’s laundry and shower facilities, BBQ pavilion, which is available for event rentals, and numerous nature trails.
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The evening sunsets provide unforgettable scenes throughout the year.
For instance, the 1.2 km (.7 mi) Historic Willingdon Beach Trail leads along the coast and is flanked by towering Broadleaf Maples, Red Alders, Douglas Firs, Grand Firs, and Western Red Cedars. Strolls can be enjoyed in all four seasons and you’ll also appreciate the park’s sand beach and open green spaces. Two new playgrounds, a spray park, and volleyball courts are also available and enjoyed by families.
Beyond the Park and Powell River
What isn’t available in the park is found in Powell River, the largest community on the Sunshine Coast. Dining and shopping options are within walking distance and a popular facility among snowbirds is the Powell River Recreation Complex.
In addition to its swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness centre, the facility offers a variety of drop-in and scheduled programs. Additionally, the local Senior Citizens Association - Powell River hosts Tai Chi, weekly card groups, luncheons and dinners, to name a few socials.
When the weather is ideal in the winter, which is more common than in other regions of the province, biking on the many trails, kayaking in fresh or saltwater, and golfing are other popular pastimes. The 18-hole Myrtle Point Golf Club is open all year and green fees during the shoulder and winter seasons are tough to beat.
There are many ways to enjoy the Willingdon Beach Campsite on the famed Sunshine Coast. Yet, the hospitality of the park, access to a range of activities, and an active community combine to provide rich experiences all winter and throughout the year.
For more information visit https://willingdonbeach.com/