Twin Island Campsites

The Twin Island Campsites are located just beyond Deep Cove on the northern island of the Twin Islands. It's one of the most accessible paddle campsites in the metro Vancouver area, and as a consequence it is often quite busy. Its short distance also makes it a great option for paddling with kids, who might not enjoy anything longer than an hour or two in a canoe.

On the east side of the island is the jetty. It's fairly large and has one side with lowered steps to make exiting kayaks and canoes easier. The jetty is open to the public and often traveled. On occasion, motorboats will moor on all three sides, leaving the paddle access blocked. If this happens, it is standard marine etiquette to move them along and tie them to the outward side of the other boats. When you arrive at the jetty, it is polite to shuttle your gear as quickly as possible up the jetty to the shore as it can get very busy.

Beyond the jetty is a board with the instructions and rules as well as the drop toilets. There is space here to stow kayaks and canoes.

Immediately beyond this is a large, wide open grove with four tent platforms. One more platform is in the woods to the north. If you follow a trail up the hill past the largest cluster of platforms, you can reach a flat area where it's possible to set up more tents. Just beyond this is the "summit" of the island.

If you have kids or itchy feet, there is plenty of exploring to be had. The tidal pools at lower tides between the islands are very interesting, though best accessed by boat. The north end of the island has a small lighthouse and some interesting rocks. Be warned that they are often slippery. On the southern end of the island, you can hike a short distance to the summit of the island, which has very good views up and down the fjord.