The breathtaking views, cozy log cabins, and charming small-town scenes in Virgin River might have you wondering if such a place truly exists — and if you can visit it. With Season 5 now streaming, fans are not just invested in Jack and Mel’s love story or Charmaine’s surprise twins — they’re captivated by the majestic mountains, quiet lakes, and cozy interiors that make the Netflix series feel like a real-life escape.
So where exactly is Virgin River filmed? While the town itself is fictional, the locations are all very real — and just as beautiful off-screen as they are on it. From the real address of Mel’s cabin to the bar where Jack pours whiskey and wisdom, here’s your travel-worthy guide to the real filming locations of Virgin River.
🇨🇦 Is Virgin River a Real Place?
Not quite. While Virgin River feels like a charming Northern California town nestled between tall redwoods and flowing rivers, the series is actually filmed entirely in British Columbia, Canada.
Author Robyn Carr, who wrote the Virgin River book series, confirmed the town is fictional:
“I have to remind [fans] that it only exists in our hearts and minds,” she told Entertainment Weekly.
But that doesn’t stop people from searching for it — and luckily, the real-life filming locations are open to visitors.
🏡 Where Is Mel’s Cabin in Virgin River?
You can thank Murdo Frazer Park in North Vancouver for those dreamy cabin-in-the-woods shots.
Mel’s iconic log cabin is very real — and known locally as The Caretaker’s Cottage. Built in 1950, it’s actually the on-site home of the park’s caretaker and has made appearances in other shows like Supernatural, The Flash, and Stargate SG-1.
Want the full effect? Here’s a fun behind-the-scenes detail:
“They use high-resolution backdrops so when you look out the window inside the cabin, you’re still seeing the real forest surroundings,” says Virgin River location scout W. Robert “Fluffy” Millar.
The only downside? The cabin is slowly sinking due to the nearby pond, prompting a recent heritage grant for structural reinforcement. But don’t worry — it’s still standing strong for now.
🍻 Where Is Jack’s Bar in Virgin River?
Raise a glass to the Watershed Grill in Brackendale, British Columbia — the real-life exterior of Jack’s Bar.
Located along the Squamish River, this riverside restaurant offers the same relaxed, woodsy charm we see on the show. Although the bar’s interior scenes are filmed on a soundstage, the exterior views are all real.
“One of Squamish’s best kept secrets,” the restaurant’s website claims — and fans agree.
With its scenic outdoor patio and eagle-spotting opportunities, it’s no wonder this spot draws Virgin River lovers from all over.
🏥 Where Is Doc Mullins’ Practice?
The doctor is in — at 122 First Street, New Westminster.
This Queen Anne-style house, built in 1889, serves as the exterior of Doc Mullins’ clinic. The home is located in the historic Queen’s Park neighborhood, complete with a wrap-around veranda, manicured gardens, and timeless charm. It last hit the market in 2021 for $2.3 million — making it a real-life dream home for fans of the show’s warm interiors and old-town vibes.
💦 Where Is the Waterfall in Virgin River?
Those sweeping shots of cascading waterfalls? That’s Shannon Falls, located in Shannon Falls Provincial Park, just south of Squamish.
The third-tallest waterfall in British Columbia, Shannon Falls is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and — now — Netflix fans. The water flows down from Mount Sky Pilot and Mount Habrich, making for one of the most picturesque backdrops in the entire series.
Tip: If you’re planning a visit, go early in the morning or during the off-season for the most peaceful experience.
🎬 Other Filming Locations You Might Recognize
Virgin River also makes use of other stunning spots across British Columbia, including:
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Burnaby
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Squamish
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Port Coquitlam
These areas have been featured in hit shows like Riverdale, The X-Files, and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, making them go-to locations for moody, cinematic scenery.
✨ Final Thoughts
Though Virgin River may not be a real town, the sense of home, community, and natural wonder it inspires can absolutely be found in these real-world locations. Whether you’re hoping to visit Mel’s famous cabin, sip a drink by Jack’s bar, or stand in awe beneath Shannon Falls, British Columbia offers the ultimate Virgin River experience — no streaming service required.
