Enriched by Land and Sea

With the waters of Discovery Passage at our shoreline and majestic mountains as a backdrop, Campbell River is located at the 50th parallel on the east coast of northern Vancouver Island. We are the fifth largest metro area on the island, with a population of approximately 35,000, and the urban service centre and hub community for approximately 60,000 people living and working in our region.

Incorporated as a village in 1947 and later designated a municipal district, Campbell River became a City in 2005. In 1948, the Elk Falls John Hart Dam hydro development project changed the landscape of Campbell River, enabling the growing community to prosper.

In 1958, a national heritage event “rocked” Campbell River when the Ripple Rock explosion removed the top of a marine hazard in Seymour Narrows that had claimed at least 114 lives. The spectacular blast moved 100,000 tons of rock and water, allowing larger vessels through the passage. At the time, the Ripple Rock blast was the world’s largest non-nuclear explosion.

These and other interesting community facts are showcased on more than 20 information panels found downtown and around the Museum.

In 2008, Campbell River was named one of the top five quality of life destinations in North America.