Can You Sleep in Your Car in Squamish?

If you’re visiting Squamish and planning to sleep in your car or van overnight, it’s crucial to know the rules, safe spots, and what locals think about van dwelling. Squamish is a hub for climbers, hikers, and road-trippers, but overnight stays in public spaces are tightly regulated. Here’s what you need to know before settling in for the night.

Where You Can Legally Sleep in Your Car in Squamish

Sleeping in your car on public streets, parks, or municipal parking lots in Squamish is not allowed. The District’s camping bylaws prohibit overnight vehicle stays, and violating them can result in fines or being asked to move.

Legal alternatives include private campgrounds and RV parks, which are the safest and most reliable options. Many are located just outside town and offer facilities like washrooms, fire rings, and electrical hookups.

You can also use Crown land and forest service roads outside the municipal boundary for dispersed camping, or private property with permission, but always confirm with the landowner first.

Legal Van Camping on Crown Land and Forest Service Roads

Outside Squamish town limits, certain Crown land and forest service roads allow overnight van stays under provincial rules. These areas offer quiet, scenic options away from town, but rules must be followed carefully.

Tips for Staying Legally & Safely

When camping on Crown land or forest service roads, always park well off the road to avoid blocking traffic, follow fire bans and posted signage, and leave no trace by packing out all rubbish and waste. Avoid long-term stays unless explicitly allowed, as provincial rules can vary.

Popular areas include logging roads north toward Garibaldi Park entrances, roads branching off Squamish Valley, and side roads near Brackendale. Before you stay, always check BC Crown land maps and regulations, since rules and signage can change—planning ahead is essential to ensure a safe and legal overnight stop.

What Happened to Sleeping at Walmart in Squamish

For years, Squamish’s Walmart parking lot was used informally by travellers for overnight stays. Municipal bylaws did not apply on private property, so people often parked overnight without enforcement.

That has changed. Walmart now actively enforces parking limits to address long-term stays and customer complaints. Security may ask vehicles to leave, and towing has occurred. Overnight parking at Walmart is no longer a reliable option.

The safest approach is to stick to designated campgrounds, RV parks, or legal Crown land.

Why Van Dwelling Is Controversial in Squamish

Van dwelling in Squamish is tied to housing pressures. Rising rents and limited housing have forced some people to live in vehicles.

At the same time, residents and officials raise concerns about litter, human waste, and congestion, especially at parks, river areas, and popular parking spots. Complaints have influenced how bylaws are enforced, with municipal officers focusing on problem areas rather than individuals in need.

The local conversation is about balance: keeping public spaces safe and clean while recognizing that some van dwellers have limited options.

Tips for Sleeping Safely in Your Vehicle

Sleeping overnight on public property in Squamish is not legal, so it’s important to plan ahead. Private lots may allow overnight stays, but rules can change quickly, and enforcement is at the discretion of the property owner. The safest options are designated campgrounds, RV parks, Crown land outside town limits, or private property where you have permission.

Always respect cleanliness, follow fire regulations, and leave no trace of your stay. Being aware of the rules, local concerns, and available legal options will help ensure your overnight stop in Squamish is safe, stress-free, and hassle-free.

Best Places for Van Dwellers in Squamish

Provincial campgrounds such as Alice Lake, Brohm Lake, and Riverside Campground are some of the most reliable options for overnight van stays, offering facilities and a safe environment.

Private RV parks, including Squamish Valley Campground, Stawamus Campground, Darcy’s, and Paradise Valley, provide additional amenities like power, water, and washrooms, making them ideal for travellers.

For those looking for a more secluded option, certain Crown land and forest service roads outside town limits—north toward Garibaldi Park, in the Squamish Valley, or near Brackendale—permit dispersed camping under provincial rules.

Overnight stays on private property are also possible, but only with clear permission from the landowner.

Avoid relying on Walmart or public streets, and always follow local rules. Legal, planned options make your stay easier, safer, and less stressful.