Alberni Base Camp & Backroads 2025 – Event Recap
Hosted by Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories × PNW Overland
There are some events that you circle on the calendar and absolutely do not want to miss—and Alberni Base Camp & Backroads was one of them. Hosted by Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories in partnership with PNW Overland, this community-driven meetup brought together rigs, gear, builders, creators, and backroad enthusiasts from all over Vancouver Island.
Things kicked off around 9 a.m. outside the front of Alberni Truck, where Deon and the crew put on a fantastic event with an even better turnout. We arrived early, grabbed our spot for the parking-lot show & shine, and sipped on morning coffee (and donuts—thank you, Deon!) as we watched the line of arriving rigs grow by the minute.
A Show & Shine Worth Showing Up Early For
Photo by - Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories
From daily drivers to full-blown expedition builds, the variety was incredible. Part of the fun was wandering around, chatting with owners, and checking out unique builds—everything from rooftop setups to custom fabrication and gear haulers.
We finally got to meet several Instagram creators we’ve talked with online for years. There’s something special about putting faces to names and seeing everyone’s rigs in person. Companies like Greenland Offroad and others also rolled in with their setups, adding even more inspiration to the mix.
The Raffle That Had Everyone Buzzing
What’s an overland gathering without a raffle? Except—this wasn’t your average little prize draw.
We’re talking major prizes:
Fridges
Recovery gear
And the big ticket item… a roof top tent
Yep, a roof top tent was sitting there ready to go home with one lucky winner. And while it wasn’t our turn this time (we’re still recovering emotionally), the excitement and energy around the raffle was a highlight in itself. Everyone walked away smiling, cheering each other on, and celebrating whoever took home the big ones.
Greenlane Offroad’s built out Toyota Landcruiser
The Taylor River Camp-Out – 60 Rigs Strong
After the show & shine wrapped up in the mid-afternoon, many of us headed out to the optional camp-out along Taylor River, just outside Port Alberni on the road toward Tofino.
And wow—what a sight.
[Suggested Photo: Wide shot of camp at Taylor River with rigs lined up along the water.]
Around 60 rigs pulled in throughout the evening, making it one of the biggest overland camp-outs we’ve personally attended. The atmosphere was unbeatable:
Friendly faces
Diverse setups
Fireside conversations
River views
And that unmistakable sense of community that overlanding brings together
Seeing such a strong turnout—people of all ages, families, solo travellers, seasoned overlanders, and first-timers—was a reminder of why events like this matter so much on the island.
We didn’t capture any photos during - so if you want to seem them make sure to check out Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories social media pages for more!
Click the Instagram symbol to go directly to their social page!
A Huge Thanks to the Hosts
This event wouldn’t have been possible without Deon from Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories and Matt from PNW Overland. Their passion and hard work brought the community together for a day (and night) of connection, inspiration, and outdoor fun.
We’re already looking forward to the next one—and if this year was any indication, the future of Vancouver Island’s overland community is something to be excited about.
Make sure to visit Alberni Truck & Overland Accessories for your next upgrades and check out PNW_Overlands instagram and give some support!
