Know Before You Travel in British Columbia

British Columbia has many climate and vegetation zones ranging from the fast-running rivers, ocean coastlines to forested mountain ranges and dry desert areas. 

On this page you will find links to updates about wildfires, environmental hazards, driving updates and park/recreational resources to help you plan a fun and informed trip.

Travellers are encouraged to check in with the accommodation operators and the local Visitor Centre in the communities they will be visiting for real-time, on-the-ground updates.

CURRENT ALERTS

COVID 19 and Travel News

WILDFIRES: The B.C. government has declared a provincial state of emergency to support the province-wide response to the ongoing wildfire situation. To report a wildfire (dial *5555 on a cell phone or call toll free 1-800-663-5555).

CAMPFIRE BANS: Check out the latest fire bans and restrictions.

PLEASE CAMP RESPONSIBLY. FOLLOW THE CAMPER’S CODE

The Camper’s Code has 9 rules that are really easy to follow. When all campers follow them, these good things happen:

• Camping continues to be enjoyable for all
• Nature remains pristine and beautiful
• People camping in the same area become friends
• Animals stay wild and free

Camper’s Code take the pledge.

KEY RESOURCES

Check BC Wildfire Service for wildfires of note, fire bans and restrictions.

• Interactive Maps and News Releases BC Government Wildfire Status
  and Twitter: @BCGovFireInfo
• Air Quality Health Index

Check DriveBC.ca for major road events such as delays, closures, and suggested detours:

• DriveBC.ca
• Highway Webcams
• ShiftintoWinter.ca
• Winter Driving – Province of BC
• Twitter: @DriveBC

River Forecast Centre analyses snowpack, assesses seasonal water supply and flood risk, and predicts flows in British Columbia’s rivers and streams:

• Flood Warnings and Advisories

PARKS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATED CAMPGROUNDS

• BC Provincial Parks – wildfire notices
• BC Provincial Parks – COVID-19 notices
• Recreation Sites and Trails BC.ca
• Recreation Sites & Trails closures

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

• Report Wildfire or Irresponsible Behaviour 1-800-663-5555 or (*5555 from a cell phone)
• Evacuees and Reception Centres call: Emergency Info BC at: 1-800-585-9559.
• BC Wildfire Information Line 1-888-336-7378
• ESS Evacuees Information 1-800-585-9559
• Canadian Red Cross Evacuees Reunification 1-800-863-6582
• Emergency Coordination Centre 1-800-663-3456

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Destination BC – https://www.hellobc.com/know-before-you-go
• Thompson Okanagan – https://www.thompsonokanagan.com/know-before-you-go
• Kootenay Rockies Tourism – Know Before You Go – Kootenay Rockies
• Cariboo Chilcotin Coast https://landwithoutlimits.com/plan-your-adventure/know-before-you-go/
• Vancouver Island – https://vancouverisland.travel/open/