Driving
Salmon Arm to Campbell River
Updated: 29 May 2026
The journey from Salmon Arm to Campbell River involves driving to the Lower Mainland, taking a ferry to Vancouver Island, and driving north to Campbell River. You will travel approximately 450 kilometers to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal, take a 1.5-hour ferry to Departure Bay, and drive another 2 hours north. The total travel time is approximately 11 hours. Campbell River is known as the Salmon Capital of the World.
Total Distance: 550 km driving + 30 km ferry; 450 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving to the ferry terminal and taking the ferry is the most direct route.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle to the ferry terminal is the most cost-effective method.
Compare Salmon Arm to Campbell River Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
11 hours
Avg Price
$200-$250 including ferry
Operator
BC Ferries
Route
Highway 1 West to Horseshoe Bay, ferry to Departure Bay, then Highway 19 North.
Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.
Travel Tips
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Ferry ReservationsAlways book your BC Ferries spot online to guarantee your boarding time.
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TrafficAvoid driving through Vancouver during rush hour to save time.
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PackingBring layers, as the coastal weather in Campbell River can change rapidly.
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ParkingCampbell River has many public parking options, but check for time limits in busy areas.
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ArrivalThe drive from Nanaimo to Campbell River is straightforward on Highway 19.
Safety Tips
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Ferry SafetyFollow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing, especially during rough seas.
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Highway SafetyStay alert for sudden stops in heavy traffic on Highway 1 and Highway 19.
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Urban DrivingBe aware of high volumes of traffic and frequent lane changes.
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Emergency ServicesCampbell River has excellent medical facilities and emergency services.
People Also Ask
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How long is the ferry?The ferry crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay takes 1 hour and 35 minutes.
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Can I fly?You can fly from Kelowna to Campbell River, which requires a drive from Salmon Arm to Kelowna.
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Is there a bus?Yes, Ebus operates from Salmon Arm to Vancouver, then you can take the ferry as a walk-on passenger.
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Do I need a passport?No, this is a domestic route within Canada.
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Is Campbell River on an island?Yes, Campbell River is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island.
Quick Info
- From Salmon Arm, British Columbia, Canada
- To Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring and Summer for the best driving and ferry conditions.
Things to Do in Campbell River
1
Elk Falls Provincial Park
A beautiful park with a stunning waterfall, suspension bridge, and hiking trails.
2
Discovery Pier
A popular pier for fishing, walking, and enjoying views of the ocean.
3
Campbell River Museum
A fascinating museum that explores the history and culture of the region.
4
Quinsam River Hatchery
A salmon hatchery that offers tours and educational information about salmon conservation.
Tags
Salmon Arm to Campbell River
Highway 1 route
driving to Campbell River
BC Ferries
Campbell River transport
Salmon Arm road trip
Vancouver Island travel
BC highway guide
