Discover 8 Camping Experiences in British Columbia This Summer

Once again this summer you’re likely looking to escape the city and get outdoors. For those of us who are lucky enough to live in BC, we have an incredible backyard to explore. From remote wilderness experiences, family-friendly campgrounds to luxury glamping, BC offers an array of camping options. Here’s a short list of camping options slightly off the beaten path to pitch your tent, park your RV, or claim your cabin. 

Untamed Wilderness

One of BC’s best kept secrets are the numerous lakes and untamed wilderness near BC’s ‘Fishing Highway’ 24. While fishing is a popular activity, you can also spend time wildlife viewing, swimming, or paddling. Ten-ee-ah Lodge is nestled on the shore of Spout Lake, a 2 hour drive north of Cache Creek and offers stunning scenery and your choice of luxe cabins or waterfront, tree-lined campsites. 

A Fishing & Paddling Haven

Head southeast and you’ll find family-friendly South Point Resort on Canim Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Cariboo at 23 km long. Go swimming or fishing just steps from your lakeside campsite or cabin. Explore the shoreline and rent a pontoon boat, stand up paddle boards, or kayaks for a day.

If you haven’t had your fishing fix yet, head east along Canim Lake Road to Mahood Lake Campground, another family-friendly camping spot in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Hike to three spectacular waterfalls or spend the afternoon paddling or swimming nearby.

Rugged Fraser River Canyon

The scenery from this Lillooet campground is unrivalled. Fraser Cove Campground & Guest Cabin is tucked on the shores of the mighty Fraser River and offers a unique opportunity for riverfront camping. Go fishing or rent an e-bike to explore the trails. Take in the views as you walk or bike over the nearby historic suspension bridge or visit Fort Berens Estate Winery just down the road. Bring your tent, RV or plan to stay in the charming cabin overlooking the Fraser River.

BC’s Mining History

If you’re interested in BC’s mining history, visit Gold Panner Campground located 50 minutes east of Vernon in the forested foothills of the Monashee Mountains. Founded on a Chinese heritage mining operation, pan for gold, explore the hiking trails, and immerse yourself in history. Campers with tents and RV’s are welcome, and modern chalets and rustic cabins are also available.

Further south through the Monashee Mountains, go hiking and mountain biking in the historic mining town of Trail, BC. Take in the views of the river from the Columbia River Skywalk suspension bridge or go swimming at Gyro Park. Bring your tent or RV and plan to camp at the City of Trail RV Park where tree lined sites provide shade and privacy and kids can play at the playground.

Seaside Adventures & Riverside Cottages

For seaside adventures, head north up the Sunshine Coast past Powell River to Lund, the northernmost town on Highway 101. This small marine village is the jumping off point for boaters headed to Desolation Sound or nearby islands. Bring your RV or reserve a cabin at SunLund By-The-Sea Resort & RV Park surrounded by trees and steps from the ocean. Walk tree-lined footpaths to restaurants, groceries, and Lund Harbour where you can rent kayaks, charter fishing boats, or go sightseeing. 

Mountain Lake & Rainforest

Tucked deep in the rainforest and mountains on Vancouver Island, Snow Creek Recreation Site Campground is a 3.5 hour drive from Victoria, west of Port Alberni. The campground has 27 campsites and is on the shores of Sprout Lake. There is a small boat launch and it offers excellent fishing and a tranquil setting for camping. Access is via a forest service road and 4×4 vehicles are recommended. Please pack out what you pack in and be respectful of wildlife. Reserve your campsite ahead of time to guarantee your spot.

Wherever you decide to camp, be safe and have fun. For more camping trip ideas and locations visit https://www.campingrvbc.com/.

“It’s always a great day to #CampinBC”

Hip and Happening in the South Cariboo, BC – 10 Reasons to Visit Today

The South Cariboo area of British Columbia is known as a land of big adventures, outdoor recreation and cowboys. And with the proliferation of world-class guest ranches dotted across its wide-open landscape, it definitely comes by its reputation naturally. But many don’t realize that the South Cariboo is also a land of rich history, talented artisans, and culinary enthusiasts.  Read on for 10 reasons to visit the South Cariboo today:

Centennial Park

This hidden gem located just minutes off the main road, in 100 Mile House, is most definitely worth a visit. Bring a picnic and lounge on the grass while the kids play in the playground. Then take an easy stroll along 500-metre Bridge Creek Waterfall Trail. The trail meanders through the park, criss-crossing two wooden bridges, before winding up at the picturesque Bridge Creek Waterfall.

108 Mile House Heritage Site

This charming heritage site is located midway between 100 Mile House and Lac La Hache, on Highway 97. Named 108 Mile, for the distance the community was located from Lillooet, visiting the 108 Heritage site is like taking a step back in time to the days of the Mile Houses of the Cariboo Waggon Road. The 13 heritage buildings, some original to the site and some that were relocated from other areas in the South Cariboo. Take some time to explore the site, tour the stately McNiel House and learn about the history of the South Cariboo.

South Cariboo Farmers Market

Every Friday from 9am – 2pm from early May until the end of September, you’ll find the lively South Cariboo Farmers Market in 100 Mile House. With over 20 vendors, offering everything from fresh produce, flowers, handmade jewellery, baked goods, beauty products, art, quilting and birdhouses, everyone will find something special to take home.

Jackson’s Social Club & Brew House

Located in an old gas station – there’s even an old car worked into the bar – Jackson’s Social Club & Brew House is the newest nano-brewery in the Cariboo.  Stop by for a flight and some food! They have a small, but diverse, menu of beer, including their newest brew, the crisp and refreshing, Summer Blizzard. And the food menu focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious pub fare like soft tacos, hot dogs and pretzels. (175 Highway 97, 100 Mile House)

Canim Lake General Store

No visit to the South Cariboo is complete without a visit to the Canim Lake General Store. This local legend is a community hub, post office, bakeshop, gallery and provider of goods and services. During the 2017 fires, the folks at Canim Lake were integral in keeping locals updated and providing for anyone who chose not to evacuate. And … the store happens to be the home of Granny Grace, legendary for baking the best fruit pies you’ll ever taste, not to mention the butter tarts, cheesecakes and other tasty treats.

The Dandelion Kitchen

Tucked into the quaint community of Forest Grove, about 20 minutes east of 100 Mile House, the Dandelion Kitchen is a must try. This charming restaurant is small in stature, but big on flavours, and their menu focuses on local and seasonal items. The beef is naturally raised, and grain fed, on their farm, and rumour has it that their baked duck breast is a life changer! Reservations are strongly recommended.

The Chartreuse Moose

Looking for a light meal and a wicked cup of coffee? The Chartreuse Moose in downtown 100 Mile House has you covered. The coffee is roasted in-house daily and the café is warm and welcoming. Visitors can enjoy Paninis, wraps and sandwiches, or all-day breakfast, while checking out the local art that’s displayed on the walls. (3-150 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).

Canim-Mahood Falls

At the east end of Canim Lake, follow an easy one-kilometre hiking trail to viewpoints overlooking the river valley and two spectacular waterfalls. In just 20 minutes, visitors can walk to both Mahood Falls and Canim Falls. You should be aware that although the trail is very well groomed, there are no guard rails and the edges of the trail drop quickly down into the canyon. After 10 minutes of walking, stop at the first viewpoint and look through the trees to the 50-foot Mahood Falls. Continue on for another 10 minutes to the even taller (65 feet) Canim Falls. At the Canim Falls viewpoint there is a steep, hidden trail that will take you the base of the waterfall.

Chris Harris Studio Gallery

Photographer, Chris Harris has made a name for himself as one of the country’s most respected nature photographers. With his camera and keen eye, he has documented all corners of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast in thousands of images and has published multiple books. His studio gallery, tucked into a grove of aspen trees, is located between 100 Mile House and 108 Mile Ranch and was designed specifically to showcase his photography. Recently they’ve added an immersive slide-sound presentation, with photos set to music. Definitely worth a visit, the Studio Gallery is open officially “by chance or by appointment”, but unofficially they try to be there as often as possible. We recommend calling ahead to make an appointment.

South Cariboo Garlic Festival

If you’re a garlic lover (or not) and find yourself near Lac La Hache on the last weekend of August, be sure to check out the South Cariboo Garlic Festival. The tagline for the festival is “Bring the whole family … for a stinkin’ good time”, and that is exactly what they do! Enjoy family fun, live music and entertainment, while celebrating all things garlic! There will be garlic sales, tastings and in previous years there has even been a garlic-eating contest.

If the Cariboo interests you, check our suggested drives:
Canadian Rockies, Cowboy Country to Coast Mountains
Following the Gold Rush Trail Through the Cariboo and Beyond

For places to camp in the Cariboo and elsewhere in British Columbia go to Camping & RVing BC Camping Map.

Post your BC travel and camping photos using the hashtag #CampinBC

Published: August 2nd, 2018