Fishing and Camping in British Columbia this Fall

Vancouver, BC, September 7, 2011 – Camping and fishing go hand in hand and as the summer crowds disperse the fall season is the perfect time for both the novice and the seasoned angler to take advantage of BC’s freshwater fishing.

Cooler temperatures in the fall mean the fish are fattening up for winter making them easier to catch and tastier to eat. It also means there are less boaters and swimmers in the water so anglers can sit back and enjoy the spectacular autumn scenery as they tempt the “big one” to bite.

“There are so many great opportunities for freshwater fall fishing here in British Columbia especially if you’re fishing for Chinook and Sockeye,” said Margot Briggs, Market Development Director for the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC (FFSBC). “In addition this is an odd-numbered year so there are huge runs of pink salmon in many tidal river systems, which started in August and will continue right through to mid-October.”

The Freshwater Fisheries Society recently launched the Fishing Buddies Sweepstakes to encourage experienced anglers to share their passion for the Canadian tradition of fishing with others. Fishing Buddies can take advantage of the great salmon fishing that is available while introducing someone they know to sport fishing. Anglers can sign up as a Fishing Buddy and enter for the chance to win one of three amazing prizes; a guided Kamloops fishing trip with Brian Chan; a British Columbia RV Adventure or a guided Vancouver Island fishing trip with Island Outfitters. Anglers are also encouraged to share their Fishing Buddies story on FFSBC’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/gofishbc.

A member of the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition (CRVBCC), the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC makes every effort to ensure fishing is accessible for all ages and experience levels. They work in partnership with the provincial government to stock lakes, conserve fish culture and develop programs to educate and inform the public about fish. For more information on the Fishing Buddies Sweepstakes and the FFSBC please visit www.gofishbc.com.

All anglers should check the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations website at www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations/#Synopsis for fresh or saltwater fishing rules and regulations that apply specifically to BC waters.

In 2010 the Camping and RVing BC Coalition launched its Google Map service, which includes the numerous stocked lakes in British Columbia. The interactive map is a user-friendly tool that aids people in finding, booking and getting to great camping spots close to their favourite fishing locations. The map can be found at www.campingrvbc.com.

About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to better position the provincial camping and RVing experience and to capitalize on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, The BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of British Columbia and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Day 3 of our 9-day road trip, and it's already a winner, in spite of moody May weather. Day 1 took us 500 kilometres up Vancouver Island from Victoria to Port Hardy, and if that wasn't scenic enough, we then indulged in a spectacular 22-hour Inside Passage cruise to Prince Rupert, aboard the B.C. Ferries' MV Northern Expedition. Who would have thought so many waterfalls could be crammed into one small corner of B.C.'s coast? Soon after, we squeezed into Grenville Channel, rubbing shoulders with forest and rock. And then came the Killer Whales. Chief Steward, Lorne Campbell, who has been on this route for 11 years, says they're the star attraction.

When and where do we see whales? It's the number one question passengers ask. We often see them, especially around Bella Bella and the southern section, mostly Humpbacks, sometimes Orcas, and Grey Whales during migrations."

In a holiday of superlatives, this cruise trumps.

Day 3 started with a detour to the North Pacific Cannery Museum at Port Edward near Prince Rupert, a National Historic site. Established in 1889, it's the oldest remaining fish cannery on North America's west coast. Each building, perched on wood pilings along the banks of the Inverness Passage, tells a story about the lost industry and the workers who lived here. The site is impressive but lonely.

On this circle trip, we meet raucous rivers like the Skeena, the Bulkley, the Thompson and the Fraser, but while the scenery is a big attraction, so is First Nations culture and history: the traditional fishing at Moricetown, the totems at Kitwanga, and the famed 'Ksan Heritage Site. This afternoon we\'re heading to Old Hazelton and 'Ksan, an historical Gitksan village at the confluence of the Bulkley and Skeena Rivers. Crossing the one lane suspension bridge over Hagwilget Canyon is an adventure in itself, and camping at 'Ksan after wandering among the totems and lodges allows us to absorb the spirit of this culture. Sitting at our iconic campfire toasting sooty marshmallows, we feel that if we weren't camping, we would have missed something intangible.

After a sleep interlaced with the sound of frogs, and followed by a breakfast 'al fresco,' we're off to join Highway 97 at Prince George, taking time out for lakeside camping at Fort Fraser.

Day 5 catches us climbing the 81 kilometres to Barkerville, where Billy Barker struck it rich in 1862 but wound up dying in a pauper's grave. Snow still squats on each side of the muddy street as dainty damsels in period costume lift their sweeping petticoats, going about their 19th century business in this historic gold rush town. We eat doughnuts from the bakery, watch the blacksmith at work, take in a performance at the Theatre Royal, and eavesdrop on a stern schoolmistress giving a lesson to a classroom full of 21st century students. Eventually it's back to Hwy. 97 and Dragon Lake, for another night of frog song.

Day 6. We cruise alongside grasslands with the ubiquitous Coast Mountains a smudge in the sky. Ponderosa Pine and sagebrush appear, and we join the Trans Canada Hwy at Cache Creek. Just before Lytton, is Kumsheen, a tiny but glorious strip of campsites, tents, tepees and adventure, sandwiched between the Thompson and the road. The sun's out and Kumsheen is famous for white water rafting. We spend an extra day here.

Day 8 and we`re smack dab in the Fraser Canyon, swaying high over Hell's Gate on the airtram. Operating since 1971, the hair-raising trip may be the longest two minutes of your life. As you dangle over that boiling stew, just imagine how Simon Fraser felt, approaching in his flimsy canoe.

Our last day is spent in Vancouver. The circle is complete.

B.C's scenery, history, attractions, and recreation keep pulling us back on the road; RVing makes it so easy to succumb.

________________________________

“Camping is a great way to enjoy BC’s natural beauty and there are several types of camping to suit all comfort levels,” said Joss Penny, CRVBCC Chair and Executive Director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association. “Whether you choose to tent camp, backpack or RV, BC is one of the best places to ‘play’ in the great outdoors.”

If camping is not an option British Columbians can still get out and participate in BC Day celebrations in campgrounds and parks throughout the province.

“In partnership with the Provincial Capital Commission, BC Parks is hosting eight events that are specific to the BC Day weekend,” said Jim Gilliland, Manager of Marketing and Partnerships for BC Parks. “All events are open to the public and we hope to see everyone out celebrating and showing their civic pride.”

Victoria’s Symphony Splash is the highlight of the BC Day celebrations as

100 years of BC Parks are celebrated with a night of extraordinary music. In honour of BC Parks the Victoria Symphony is performing on a floating stage in Victoria’s Inner Harbour at approximately 7:30pm.The event begins at 1pm with children’s activities, local food vendors and live music.

Just like Santa Claus, Jerry the Moose will find time to visit many BC Parks hosting BC Day events over the long weekend including:

• Beatton Park (North) – The weekend festivities include family nature and craft programs, a scavenger hunt and a celebration birthday cake.
• Purden Lake Park (North) – Throughout the weekend there will be colouring, short story and sandcastle building contests; fly tying demos; local musicians; face painting and plenty of games for everyone to enjoy.
• Kokanee Creek Park (Kootenay) – Folk dancing in the Park will feature the music of Eastern European roots group "Heavy Shtetl” and dance Instruction by folk fusion dancer Slava Doval.
• Moyie Lake Park (Kootenay) – This party will include Learn to Fish programming, a scavenger hunt, a BBQ, and a parade for Jerry the Moose.
• Wells Gray (Thompson) – This popular park is hosting a treasure hunt along the Wells Gray park corridor. Visitors will get an introduction to the culture and history of the park and learn interesting ecological aspects. The day will wrap up back at North Thompson Park with a BBQ and prizes for winners.
• Cultus Lake (Mainland) – Learning will be fun at this party with the Learn to Fish, Adventure Smart and Bear Aware tents. Top off the day with a scavenger hunt; draw prizes and cake!
• Rathtrevor Park (Vancouver Island) – Visitors will enjoy local musicians and artists, a petting zoo and pony rides. There will also be opportunities to learn to pan for gold, see local artefacts and displays, take nature walks, and participate in some good "old fashioned" family fun.

For more information and an extensive list of BC Day celebrations in BC Parks please visit www.bcparks.ca and click on Calendar of Events.

For more information on campgrounds and parks in British Columbia the CRVBCC website has an interactive google map that plots over 1,100 campgrounds and outstanding freshwater fishing opportunities on numerous lakes stocked by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. In one location, campers can easily find all the different types of campgrounds located in British Columbia including: BC Parks, Parks Canada, privately operated campgrounds and RV parks and Recreation Sites and Trails BC. Please visit www.campingrvbc.com.

About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to better position the provincial camping and RVing experience and to capitalize on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, The BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of British Columbia and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

BC Parks and the Geocaching Association of B.C. have placed 100 geocaches in parks around B.C., with prizes for those who find them first. A geocache is a hidden container found with the help of Global Positioning System technology.

The search begins online, with geocaching websites providing coordinates that players can program into their GPS devices. Coordinates for the 100 geocaches will be posted online on June 26 (see Learn More for web addresses).

Each cache contains a stash of stickers, pins and other collectables, along with three specially-designed BC Parks 100 coins. Parks staff and members of the Geocaching Association will kick things off at Miracle Beach this Sunday with information and demonstrations for those who may be new to the pastime.

With the advent of smart phones and other mobile technologies, geocaching has become increasingly popular. According to the website geocaching.com, there are more than 1.4 million active geocaches in existence and approximately five million geocachers worldwide.

In B.C., the 100 geocaches program is the latest in a series of special events and activities taking place this summer as part of the BC Parks centennial celebration. B.C.\'s first provincial park - Strathcona on Vancouver Island - was established in March 1911.

Quick Facts:

• Geocaching has been encouraged in BC parks since 2008. It\'s recognized as a low-impact, healthy activity that can be managed safely, even in protected areas.
• The basic guidelines for placing caches in BC parks include:
  • The cache must be accessible from established trails or approved travel routes.
  • It must not disturb the natural environment, including soil.
  • It cannot be left for more than three years.
• The special BC Parks 100 coin was produced at no cost to taxpayers. It was funded through a partnership with the B.C. Camping and RV Coalition.
• Parking fees were eliminated from B.C. parks on May 3 to help make them more accessible and inviting to families.
• The Province has also launched a $500,000 Community Legacy Program to fund improvements to parks across B.C. and a BC Parks Passport Program offering rewards for visiting parks this summer.

Learn More:

• Learn more about geocaching - and get the coordinates for the 100 geocaches in B.C. parks at: www.bcgeocaching.com/
• Explore the world of camping opportunities available in B.C. at: www.campingrvbc.com/
• Find out more about BC Parks 100 celebrations at: www.bcparks.ca
• Connect with BC Parks on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Media Contacts:

Suntanu Dalal
Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745     250 387-9745     

- This Canada Day Weekend Go Camping in the True North Strong and Free -

Vancouver, BC, June 23, 2011 – This Canada Day promises to be extra special for campers as both BC Parks and Parks Canada are celebrating centennials in 2011.

On March 11th BC Parks celebrated its 100th anniversary of the creation of Strathcona Provincial Park, the very first provincial park in British Columbia and on May 21st Parks Canada kicked off its centennial year marking its establishment as the world’s first national park service. Both agencies have planned celebrations and events throughout the year to commemorate these incredible milestones.

“There is no better way to celebrate Canada then to go camping with your family and friends in one of BC’s world renowned parks,” said Jim Gilliland, Manager of Marketing and Partnerships for BC Parks. “The best part is that pretty much everyone has a BC or national park in their backyard as our province has one of the most extensive park systems in Canada.”

BC Parks offers campsites, day-use areas, and thousands of kilometres of trails as a fun and convenient way to explore the province. This year there is a full list of events and initiatives taking place that include:

• 100 Years of Adventure – Mountain Equipment Co-op has partnered with BC Parks to help celebrate with a community event series across the province that focuses on family-friendly and self-propelled outdoor activities.
• Arts in the Parks – In partnership with the Assembly of BC Arts Councils and the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Investment, BC Parks is hosting arts and cultural events in BC Parks from March to December of 2011.
• BC Parks Passport program – This is an initiative that encourages visitors to spend time in BC parks, Parks Canada and Tourism BC Visitor Centres from May 20 to September 30 2011. Passport participants can collect stickers or stamps to earn commemorative awards. There are also trip planning resources, special offers and coupons.

As of May 3rd parking fees were eliminated to help make BC Parks more accessible and inviting to families. BC Parks has also launched a $500,000 Community Legacy Program to fund improvements to provincial parks across BC. To learn more about BC Parks and for a comprehensive Events Calendar please visit www.bcparks.ca.

Throughout 2011, Parks Canada will be highlighting 100 years of world leadership in conservation, education and visitor experience programs. Parks Canada has one of the most extensive networks of protected national heritage places in the world with 167 national historic sites, 42 national parks and four national marine conservation areas.

“Some of the best examples of our parks are located right here in BC, said Alison Manley, External Relations Manager for the Coastal BC Field Unit. “On Canada Day we open our doors and invite all Canadians to join us for some unforgettable experiences.”

 Here are a few special dates to look out for:

• Canada Day – On July 1st Parks Canada is celebrating “Doors Open on Canada Day” with free admission to national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas managed by Parks Canada.
• Canada’s Parks Day – July 16th features free entry and “100 for the 100th, an extensive list of suggested activities and ways to celebrate at all national parks and historic sites throughout BC and Canada. Join Parks Canada and BC Parks for a special celebration including daytime family fun and a free evening concert in Stanley Park in Vancouver.  For more information about events in your area, visit: www.parksday.ca
• Fab Forts Weekend – This national celebration is a coast to coast weekend for community enjoyment of Canada’s historic forts with signature 100-gun salute and toast to Parks Canada’s centennial.

To learn more about Parks Canada and its centennial year please visit www.pc.gc.ca/eng/progs/celebrations/even/index.aspx. For information on camping and making reservations in national parks please visit www.pc.gc.ca/eng/voyage-travel/ltc-dlc/index.aspx

For an interactive “Where to Camp” google map and information on camping or RVing in BC please visit www.campingrvbc.com

About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to better position the provincial camping and RVing experience and to capitalize on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, The BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of British Columbia and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Media Contact

Andrea Wickham-Foxwell

Communications/Media Relations Consultant

T: 604-885-8840 (Sunshine Coast)

C: 778-861-7486 (Vancouver)

E: mybcbuzz@gmail.com

www.campingrvbc.com

You're really not Canadian until you've been camping, says The News' Alan Campbell,  with a sparkling 24-foot recreational vehicle (RV), booked from Westcoast Mountain Campers in Richmond, packed full of the essentials (DVD's, Wii and wine), he was off and running the gauntlet with downtown traffic before arriving at Horsehoe Bay for his BC Ferries ride to Langdale, where his journey begins... Read Alan's full article...

In 1911, Canada showed foresight and leadership in becoming the first country in the world to establish a national service entirely dedicated to parks. One hundred years ago, few Canadians realized the impact of this decision, but they soon would come to know the iconic places that were held in trust for them, places such as Banff and the Fortifications of Québec, that would become world renowned symbols of Canada.

Today, as we embark on a second century of caring for our nation’s natural and cultural heritage, Parks Canada manages an impressive network of 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites and 4 national marine conservation areas. These fascinating places protect what is fragile but vital: the unique, unrivalled and irreplaceable places where Canadians can connect to their heritage and the wildlife, landscapes and waters that represent the very essence of Canada. 

Visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca and follow the link to “Parks Canada Centennial” for more information and a listing of special events.

The BC Parks 100 Passport - available free starting today at participating provincial parks and visitor centres - offers kids of all ages a chance to collect stamps and win prizes by visiting provincial parks.

Similar programs in the Yukon and national parks systems have been successful in increasing park visits, and Lake anticipates a rise in visits to B.C. parks this summer. B.C. parks typically get about 20 million visitors a year.

The passport program, which runs until Sept. 30, 2011, is the latest incentive for families to get out and enjoy B.C. parks. On May 3, the Province eliminated parking fees in all provincial parks to help make them more accessible.

Along with the chance to collect stickers and win awards, the passport includes advice on trip- planning, special offers and information about events and activities taking place in B.C. parks this summer.

B.C. has almost 1,000 parks and protected areas, offering amenities including:

• More than 340 campgrounds.
• 118 boat launches.
• 263 day-use areas.
• Nearly 7,000 kilometres of trails.

Two new online tools are also now available to help people plan their park experience. The Discover Camping system (www.discovercamping.ca) lets you book campsites in advance and a new Google Maps overlay at www.bcparks.ca links you directly to individual park websites. The passport also includes a high-tech feature linking directly to parks information online. Smartphone users can scan an embedded barcode, called a QR code, on the back cover to go straight to the BC Parks 100 web page.

The CRVBCC website provides everything from ”How to Camp” tips and etiquette to an interactive google map that plots over 1,100 campgrounds and outstanding freshwater fishing opportunities on numerous lakes stocked by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. Campers can now easily find in one location all four different types of campgrounds located in British Columbia including: BC Parks, Parks Canada, privately operated campgrounds and Recreation Sites and Trails BC.

“Camping is all about tuning out from the fast-paced world and enjoying nature but it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected,” said Joss Penny, CRVBCC Chair and Executive Director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association. “A little planning and research can make all the difference between a good camping vacation and a great camping vacation.”

 The Camping and RV BC Coalition would like to remind campers to:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition
• Pack appropriate tents and/or gear for the type of camping you’re doing
• Bring a first aid kit
• Check the weather report
• Let someone know where you’re going, the general route you plan to take and when you will be returning
• Take a cell phone with you
• Use good camping etiquette and respect other campers
• Be prepared to encounter wildlife
• Build fires in designated areas, don’t leave them unattended and make sure they are properly extinguished when you leave
• Dispose of trash and recycling properly, and according to campground regulations
• Store food items in an appropriate manner, as determined by the campground
• Reserve your campsite early to avoid disappointments as popular campgrounds fill up very quickly in the high season especially over long weekends

For more tips and detailed information on camping in BC please visit www.campingrvbc.com/.

For anyone that has a tough time leaving the comforts of home travelling by RV is an excellent option that still allows people to get away and spend time in the great outdoors. The luxury of RV travel is especially appealing to older travellers or people with disabilities who cannot always handle the challenges of tent camping. To find out more about RV rentals please visit www.rvrac.com/.

About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to better position the provincial camping and RVing experience and to capitalize on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, The BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of British Columbia and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

"We are seeing a lot of interest in RVing and camping this summer as the economic downturn is making people stay closer to home," said, Joss Penny, coalition chair and executive director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association. "This trend allows BC residents to explore what's in our province and camping and fishing are great ways to get in touch with the best of what BC has to offer."

Both camping and fishing offer affordable ways to relax in the summer sun, whether you are planning a family getaway, a weekend with friends or a multi-generational trip with the extended family, the great outdoors offer the perfect holiday at the right price.

"Fishing is a great bonding activity and discoverfishingbc.ca can help people make their summer plans," says Don Peterson of the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC (FFSBC). "Our goal is to ensure we educate people on the range of fishing opportunities available across the province, provide freshwater stocking information and connect people to ongoing Learn to Fish programs to help ensure fishing is successful, easily accessible and fun."

Discoverfishingbc.ca and Camping and RVing BC Coalition recommend the following ten fishing and camping opportunities:

Alberni Harbour - The town of Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island, is a salmon fishing mecca and great place to try your luck in the protected waters of the Alberni Harbour. The harbour is suitable for small-boat fishing and anglers can target chinook and coho salmon through September.
Where to RV and Camp: There are multiple camping and RV options in the area, including Stamp River Falls campground, Arrowvale Campground with 40 sites and Lakeshore Campground and Cottage with camping and RVing sites.

Discovery Pier - The Discovery Pier is probably one of the most accessible fishing spots on the coast. Located in the heart of Campbell River, on Vancouver Island, the 600-foot pier is a great place to take the kids for a lazy afternoon of saltwater fishing. The Pier even offers equipment rentals and a concession stand.
Where to RV and Camp: This area has something for all types of camping and RVing including Brown's Bay Resort, Marina & Ripple Rock RV Park, Elk Falls Provincial Park, Campbell River Fishing Village & RV Park and Parkside Campground and RV Park.

Port Renfrew - Located two hours northwest of Victoria on Highway 14, Port Renfrew and Sooke are just some of the spots along Vancouver Island's southwest coast that offer great fishing for coho and chinook salmon. This is primarily a small-boat fishery, but anglers can also go fishing with one of the areas' many charter operators or contact a local marina for information on boat rentals.
Where to RV and Camp: The westcoast of Vancouver Island offers excellent camping and RVing including Port Renfrew Recreational Retreat with 33 spacious and private RV sites, San Juan River Recreation Site (accessible with two wheel drive) and Fairy Lake Recreation site, an open RV-friendly site with a beautiful sandy beach.

Elk River and Tributaries - Close to Fernie, B.C., the Elk River and its tributaries offer worldclass fly fishing for Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The river features aggressively feeding trout and beautiful scenery in the East Kootenay Region of the province.
Where to Camp and RV: Snow Valley Motel & RV Park in the centre of Fernie has 10 sites for RVing and tenting area, as well as Englishman Creek Recreation Site with 42 campsites, a large site on Lake Koocanusa in a protected bay with a gravel boat launch.

Quesnel Lake - Quesnel Lake is a big water body with even bigger fishing opportunities for rainbow trout and bull trout in one of the deepest fiord lakes in the world. This pristine lake offers excellent trolling, casting and fly fishing, particularly at the mouths of the many small creeks that enter the lake.
Where to Camp and RV: Along with the fishing, Cedar Point Provincial Park is an exceptional place for scenery and swimming. Open from May 1 through October 1, there are 40 vehicle accessible campsites for tenting or RVs.

Dragon Lake - Almost located in downtown Quesnel, this is one of B.C.'s premier rainbow trout lakes. It is an extremely productive water body, which allows the stocked rainbow trout to reach very large sizes. It is one of B.C.'s most prized fly fishing lakes with trout reaching in excess of 4 kg.
Where to Camp and RV: Robert's Roost RV Park and Campground has lakeshore campsites with full hook-ups and recreational facilities and laundry.

Roche Lake - Situated about 30 minutes southeast of Kamloops in Roche Lake Provincial Park, Roche Lake is one of the most popular fly and spin fishing lakes in the Thompson/Nicola region of the province. Nutrient rich waters and a well-managed fish stocking program provides anglers with quality fishing for rainbow trout.
Where to Camp and RV: Within the provincial park there are rustic campsites on two of the lakes and a year-round campground fully serviced from May 1 through September 30.

Sheridan Lake - One of the larger lakes along Highway 24, the fishing highway of the southern Cariboo region of the province, Sheridan Lake supports a healthy population of stocked rainbow trout that reach in excess of 6 kg.
Where to Camp and RV: Numerous RV parks cater to travelling anglers in this area, which includes Loon Bay Resort with 50 sites and a lakefront RV park from May 15 through October 15. Sheridan Lake Resort has a total of 92 sites, 40 for RVs.

Whiteswan Lake - In beautiful Whiteswan Provincial Park, located north of Cranbrook, this is an extremely picturesque water body with towering mountains as the backdrop for anglers fishing for stocked and wild rainbow trout. These fish are renowned for their strong fighting abilities.
Where to Camp and RV: The Provincial Park includes year-round Home Basin and White River campgrounds and Alces, Packrat and Inlet Creek campgrounds open from May 9 through October 15. The park has a total of 104 vehicle accessible campsites and 3 walk-in sites.

Tunkwa and Leighton Lakes - Located within Tunkwa Lake Provincial Park just north of the town of Logan Lake, B.C., these are two of the most nutrient rich small lakes in the province. This translates into healthy and abundant populations of stocked rainbow trout. Good camping, plus a resort on Tunkwa Lake and paved roads almost to the water's edge make this an easy weekend trip from the Greater Vancouver area. The trout will reach in excess of 2 kg.
Where to Camp and RV: There are three campgrounds in Tunkwa Lake Provincial Park. In addition to an excellent trail system and numerous outdoor activities, there is full service campsites from May 1 through October 8 and 275 vehicle accessible campsites.

All anglers should check the fresh or saltwater fishing regulations for specific regulations that may apply to any of these BC waters, the regulations can be accessed via www.discoverfishingbc.ca. The Camping and RV Coalition also recently launched a Google Map service that can be found at www.campingrvbc.com. It's a user-friendly tool that aids people in finding, booking and getting to a great camping spots close to their favourite fishing locations.

About Discover Fishing B.C.

www.discoverfishingbc.ca is a free one-stop resource for individuals and families to learn about British Columbia's year-round fishing opportunities. The website features thorough descriptions of some of the province's abundant freshwater fishing sites, as well as driving directions and details on nearby amenities such as day-use areas, toilets, beaches, boat launches and camping. The website also offers information on obtaining a fishing licence and helpful 'Learn to Fish' programs offered throughout the province. Other features include an informative guide to B.C.'s many sport fish, equipment overviews, fishing methods, and handy printable brochures full of tips for those just starting out to bring along in their tackle box.

About the Camping and RV British Columbia Coalition

The CRVBCC was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to position the province as offering an incredible variety of camping and RVing experiences, capitalizing on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association of Canada (RVDA), Parks Canada, Recreation Sites and Trails BC operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and Tourism Dawson Creek. For more information please visit www.campingrvbc.com.

Media Contact:
The Tartan Group,
Trisha Lees, office: 250-592-3838, cell: 250-896-3838, trisha@tartangroup.ca
Andrea Wickham-Foxwell, office: 604-682-8811, cell: 604:836-3332, andrea@tartangroup.ca

The CRVBCC has made planning a camping trip a lot easier. They have plotted more than 1100 place marks on a Google Map indicating campground locations and, with the help of the RV Rental Association of Canada, added in RV rental outlets. Campers can easily use this map to pinpoint their desired destination and figure out how to get there. From rustic off the grid camping to luxury RV sites this is the first time ever that all four major campground brands - Parks Canada, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, Private Campgrounds and RV Parks, BC Parks - are plotted on one map. The service also offers a location finder and driving directions in five languages.

"This is the perfect resource for anyone planning a camping or RVing trip in BC," says Joss Penny, Coalition chair and executive director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association. "With many new travellers looking for an affordable holiday alternative, the CRVBCC is expecting the campgrounds to be very busy this year and, therefore, getting a campsite more challenging. This map will help people find new places and hidden gems that they may have not otherwise known about."

The Google Map tool is accessible directly from the Camping and RV website on the where to camp page and is easy to use. The browser simply magnifies the region of choice and the surrounding campground and RV rental place marks. Each place mark has a pop up description box which provides essential information about the campground or RV location that enables quick decision making. Key information provided includes number of campsites, when the campground is open, fees, amenities and links to find out more or to book a spot. Try it! And remember to take the camera along for a chance to win over $4000 in great prizes in the summer "Get Camping in BC Photo Contest". For more information please visit www.campingrvbc.com.

About the Camping and RV British Columbia Coalition:
The CRVBCC was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to position the province as offering an incredible variety of camping and RVing experiences, capitalizing on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Parks Canada, Recreation Sites and Trails BC operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, RV Rental Association of Canada, Northern BC Tourism Association, BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and Tourism Dawson Creek.

Media Contact:
Andrea Wickham-Foxwell, Tartan Group
604.682.8811
andrea@tartangroup.ca

Camping and RVing BC Coalition
Alenna Langhorst
604.469.9571
alenna@bclca.com

Vancouver, BC, April 29, 2009 - Campers have even more reason to pack the camera this summer if they want to get in on the action and win Camping & RV in BC's "Get Camping in BC Photo Contest", starting May 1, 2009.

Each summer, thousands of campers take to the roads and wilds of B.C. with family or friends, snapping pictures of stunning vistas and unique adventures to reminisce later, or to be filed away for memory. But why think small? What if one could release their inner shutterbug and snap up a chance to cruise The Sea to Sky Highway (#99) in a sleek Motorhome through a sunny stretch in 2010?

Whatever the adventure, the Camping & RV in BC Coalition is looking for the pictures that best capture the spirit of camping in British Columbia in a variety of categories: Adventure and Physical Fun; On the Open Road; Nature's Splendour, and Family and Friends - there's a moment to share from every camper's journey. There are no restrictions on creativity of the shot; just a guideline that all the pictures must be taken in a British Columbia camping setting and during the 2009 season... the rest is up to the campers behind the cameras.

By catching that perfect moment, you have a chance to win the grand prize, a total value of $2,000 which includes a 5-day RV rental, a National Parks of Canada Pass valid for a family for one year and a Garmin GPS. In addition four category winners can indulge in a $500 shopping spree at Mountain Equipment Co-op.

Budding shutterbugs can head to www.campingrvbc.com to find out how to participate, and to get a better look at those prizes. The contest will close at midnight on September 8, 2009 Entries will be judged by on-line voting and a panel of judges on the coalition's website. The category and grand prize winners will be announced in January, 2010. It's as simple as that - whoever snaps the best shot that captures the spirit of camping and RVing, and the beauty of B.C. gets a mobile holiday - a chance to 'rough it' in style (sorry, butler not included).

About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to position the province as offering an incredible variety of camping and RVing experiences, capitalizing on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA), Recreation Sites and Trails BC operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, the RV Rental Association of Canada (RVRAC), Northern BC Tourism Association, the BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Tourism Dawson Creek and Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

For more information, please visit: www.campingrvbc.com

Media Contact
Andrea Wickham-Foxwell, 604.682.8811, andrea@tartangroup.ca

Camping and RVing BC Coalition
Alenna Langhorst, 604-469-9571, alenna@bclca.com

Vancouver, BC, September 23, 2008 - For the traveller who thinks having a national park, long sandy beach or quiet winding river all to themselves seems like a far away dream, fall camping and RVing in British Columbia could be the perfect antidote to a busy summer and the rush of getting the kids back to school.

A new website recently launched by the Camping and RVing BC Coalition and Tourism BC, www.campingrvbc.com, provides easy to access and free information to these "off the beaten track" experiences. It is a one stop online shop that links people quickly to the camping and RVing options available to them, making fall trip planning so much easier.

A myriad of camping experiences across the province are available during the autumn months. Travellers can take a drive and find themselves along a river's edge watching spawning salmon or wrap themselves in a blanket star gazing after dark, experiencing fall at its finest.

Compared to the extreme buzz of summer, travellers can also relax knowing they will get the best spot at a favourite campsite. And for those seeking an easy affordable fall getaway experience, the members of the RV Rental Association of Canada (www.rvrac.com) are providing travellers with souvenir cards and a guide that outlines special discounts at campgrounds across British Columbia if they rent a camper or motorhome from them. Camping fees start around $10 per night per party, and RV overnight fees in B.C. range from $20-$50 per night for a full service hook-up.

The Camping and RVing BC Coalition recommend the following nine fall camping locations:

Open until October 8, 2008
• Redstreak Campground, Kootenay National Park

Open until October 13, 2008
• Green Point Campground, Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino
• Ponderosa Resort, Canim Lake

Open until October 15, 2008
• Blue River Campground, Blue River
• Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park
• Chimney Lake North Recreation Site

Open until October 31, 2008
• Evely Recreation Site, Okanagan Lake

Open All Year:
• Paradise Valley Campground, Squamish
• Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park

Whether a rustic outdoor enthusiast or "glamper" (glamourous camper) who wants the luxuries of having all gadgets in the back seat, the range of the camping experience varies substantially. Camping in a national park is one of the best ways to get back to nature. Most National park campgrounds provide a rustic, semi-wilderness experience, offering spectacular scenery and enjoyable moments of sipping hot-chocolate beside the campfire. The provincial parks alone offer 6,000 kilometres worth of trails allowing campers to absorb the natural lakesides, landscapes and majestic seascapes. Forest recreation sites are perfect for travelling off grid and experiencing the solitude of Mother Nature's hub.

B.C.'s private RV parks and campgrounds offer a part or full service resort type experience that caters to those who cherish their creature comforts just as much as nature. They offer a number of additional experiences ranging from children's programming to historical attractions to golfing opportunities.

About the Camping and RV British Columbia Coalition:

The CRVBCC was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to position the province as offering an incredible variety of camping and RVing experiences, capitalizing on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA), BC Forest Recreation Sites operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, the RV Rental Association of Canada (RVRAC), Northern BC Tourism Association, the BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Tourism Dawson Creek and Northern Rockies Alaskan Highway Tourism Association.

For more information, please visit: www.campingrvbc.com

Media Contact:
The Tartan Group
Deirdre Campbell, 250-882-9199, Deirdre@tartangroup.ca
Lesley Bidlake, 250-686-9229, Lesley@tartangroup.ca
Coalition Chair Joss Penny 604-945-7676

The CRVBCC was formed with the support of Tourism British Columbia to position the province as offering an incredible variety of camping and RVing experiences, capitalizing on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA), BC Forest Recreation Sites operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, the RV Rental Association of Canada (RVRAC), Northern BC Tourism Association, the BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Tourism Dawson Creek and Northern Rockies Alaskan Highway Tourism Association.

The Coalition's objectives include increasing the awareness and profile of British Columbia as the premier destination for camping and RVing in the Pacific Northwest and facilitating visitors' experiences by making it easy for them to search, plan, book, and enjoy their British Columbian camping or RV experience.

"Coalition members believe that the camping and RVing industry is an integral part of British Columbia's economic fabric," says Coalition chair Joss Penny and Executive Director of the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA). "B.C. is a leader in outdoor adventure and authentic nature-based experiences with many wilderness, fishing and hiking amenities that are best discovered through camping and RVing."

The CRVBCC is undertaking strategic and proactive marketing initiatives including production of promotional marketing materials, a travel media outreach program, and the launch of a new webpage www.campingrvbc.com which will serve as an important gateway resource for anyone interested in planning a camping or RVing trip in B.C. "The Camping and RVing BC Coalition serves as an example of what can be achieved when tourism stakeholders combine efforts and resources ultimately building a strong partnership," said Richard Lewis, Director, Sector Development and City Destinations, Tourism BC. "Together this group has expanded the vision of what this sector can do for tourism in our province."

Key Facts About B.C.'s Camping and RVing Sector

• Currently there are 569 Tourism BC approved privately operated campgrounds with 26,701 campsites.
• In 2006, an estimated $80 million in revenue was generated from Tourism BC approved campgrounds.
• B.C.'s Provincial Parks provide 340 vehicle accessible campgrounds and 11,075 campsites with an estimated $11.3 million in direct revenue.
• The RV Rental Association of Canada's six members across B.C. operate 2,300 vehicles and link with major UK, German, Swiss, French and Dutch tour operators. RV rentals account for an estimated 250,000 campground nights, $15 million in food purchases and an additional $6 million in other expenditures.
• There are 1,300 BC Forest Recreation Sites on Crown land, managed by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. These sites commonly include campgrounds, day-use areas, boat launches and other facilities and the prices range from $0 to $15 per night.
• B.C.'s seven national parks provide 14 campgrounds with over 825 vehicle accessible campsites.

The CRVBCC is an independent organization developed as an initiative of Experiences BC, a sector based program created by Tourism British Columbia to support the province-wide development of market-ready tourism products. For more information on camping and RVing in B.C. visit www.campingrvbc.com.

Media Contact:
Tartan Public Relations 250-592-3838
Bridget Frewer, 250-889-0441 bridget@tartanpr.com
Deirdre Campbell, 250-882-9199, Deirdre@tartanpr.com
Coalition Chair Joss Penny 604-945-7676