Nestled on Northern Vancouver Island, Campbell River is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise. Each season offers unique opportunities to connect with nature. Campbell River Whale Watching’s guide will help you to make the most of your wildlife viewing experience.
Campbell River Whale Watching
Wildlife Adventures in Campbell River: Your Seasonal Guide
June 16th 2024
Spring (March to Mid-June)
Wildlife activity re-awakens. Whale watching tours start in March with the 4-hour Whale and Wildlife Discovery Tour, expanding to longer excursions in April.
Wildlife Sightings:
- Black Bears: Emerging from hibernation, scouring the shores for crustaceans.
- Sea Lions: California and Steller sea lions are active, with California sea lions leaving in May.
- Humpback Whales: Return around May after wintering in Hawaii or Mexico.
- Transient Killer Whales: Best sighted in March and early April.
Year-round residents like Harbour and Dall’s porpoises, Harbour seals, and Bald eagles add to the spectacle.
Recommended Tours:
- Spring Bear and Waterfall Tour: April to mid-June, featuring stunning waterfalls and occasional Grizzly bear sightings.
- Whale Watching Tours
Summer (Mid-June to End of August)
Summer is peak season and offers incredible wildlife viewing.
Wildlife Sightings:
- Humpback Whales: Frequently sighted as they feast in local waters.
- Killer Whales: Both Transient and Northern Resident Orcas, with the latter following Chinook salmon.
- Pacific White-Sided Dolphins: Appear in June, with sightings increasing through fall.
- Bald Eagles: Hundreds gather around Stuart Island in June and July.
Bear sightings are less common as they retreat to cooler forest areas.
Recommended Tours:
- Whale Watching
- Kayaking and Whale Watching Combo Tour
Fall (End of August to End of October)
Is marked by the start of Grizzly Bear Day tours.
Wildlife Sightings:
- Grizzly Bears: Best viewed in September and October during salmon spawning.
- Humpback Whales: Preparing for migration.
- Transient Killer Whales: Frequently sighted in September.
- Sea Lions: Return from rookeries, to local haulouts.
Year-round residents like dolphins, porpoises, seals, and eagles ensure rich wildlife encounters.
Recommended Tours:
- Grizzly Bear Tours: Bute and Toba Inlets.
- Whale Watching
Winter (November to March)
Winter is quieter in Campbell River but there is still the chance to see wildlife from the shore line or the Fishing Pier. The region also offers great winter attractions like skiing at Mount Washington and winter diving opportunities.
Sustainable Travel Tips
As you embark on your Campbell River adventure, consider these tips to travel responsibly and minimize your environmental footprint.
- Choose Ethical Wildlife Experiences: Partner with operators prioritizing animal welfare and conservation.
- Respect Local Cultures: Engage respectfully with communities and support cultural heritage initiatives.
- Pack Light and Smart: Reduce your carbon emissions by packing only essentials.
- Offset Your Carbon Footprint: Invest in carbon offset programs supporting renewable energy and reforestation.
- Support Local Businesses: Choose locally owned restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Your support stimulates the local economy and promotes sustainable development.
- Conserve Water and Energy: Take shorter showers, turn off unused electronics and lights.
- Reduce Plastic Waste: Bring reusable alternatives. Refuse single-use plastics to protect marine life and ecosystems.
By integrating these sustainable practices, you help protect the environment and support local communities. Each choice you make contributes to a positive impact. Let's travel responsibly and champion a sustainable future together.
