Planning Your First Camping Trip? Make it Easy

Whether you’re pitching a tent borrowed from a neighbour or cruising in a rented RV, the essence of camping remains the same: to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. For some novice campers the mere thought of sleeping outside and cooking over a campfire can be daunting, but with preparation, even newbies can enjoy their outdoor experience.

Here are some simple tips to help plan your camping trips:

Expectations

What type of camping experience are you after? Would you like a deluxe campground with a swimming pool and organized kids’ programs or an abundance of hiking trails and lake activities? Deciding on this will help in your campground selection process. For a shorter and perhaps easier getaway start off with a campground close to home.

Reservations

Reserve your campground site. Doing so will secure your spot and, since the Covid-19 pandemic, this is often necessary during peak seasons. Consider what might be the ideal site, whether this means partial sun, shade or a ‘pull-thru’ site for the RV. (Check links below to locate and reserve campsites in British Columbia.)

Familiarization

Research the available facilities and any necessary permits or regulations to purchase or adhere to. Arrive early at your campsite, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the RV or require extra time to set up tents. Locate the garbage disposal area and familiarize yourself with quiet time hours.

Gear Selection

If you don’t own camping equipment, consider borrowing or renting gear for your first few trips. Assemble any tents, tarps/covers and cooking stoves in advance to verify that everything works correctly. Air out any sleeping bags, pack appropriate pillows and check that all flashlights, headlamps and lanterns are working and charged. Pack any necessary portable chargers and extra batteries, as well as a fire starter and extinguisher, insect repellant and first-aid kit. Dollar store deals can be a camper’s best friend. (Try plastic storage buckets for easy organization and eye masks and ear plugs for sensitive sleepers.)

Entertainment Options

Pack a variety of card and board games to keep everyone entertained and try a temporary ban on electronic devices to fully immerse in the outdoor experience. Room permitting, bring along outdoor games such as cornhole, horseshoes, balls and Frisbees. Inquire about organized indoor and outdoor kids’ programs offered by the campground or nearby community events.

Picnic Practicalities

Invest in a few tablecloths and clips, bug repellant candles, small side tables, rain/shade covers and an outdoor tent/RV entrance rug to keep the dirt out.

Child Safety

Bring a portable playpen for babies to ensure their safety while parents are busy setting up camp. Pack child specific first-aid supplies.

Pet Patrol

If pets are allowed at the campsite and you’re bringing yours, pack their food, snacks, toys and sleeping essentials as well as a pet first-aid kit. Verify what rules to abide by; there may be restrictions with regards to leash length or breed of dog.

Cooking Supplies

Pack everyday kitchen items including a good peeler, pots and pans, tongs, spatulas and a grill grate for cooking over the fire. Bring trash bags, paper and tea towels, biodegradable cleaning sprays, sponges and wipes. Stock up on sauces and seasonings, oils, herbs and salt and pepper to liven up your meals.

Meals and Snacks

Prep before you go, consider dietary needs/preferences, select multi-use ingredients for easy recipes, pack non-perishable and healthy high-energy snacks and use storage containers. Ensure you have a variety of proteins, starches and carbohydrates to keep you feeling energized and bring ample bottled water as a back-up should the campsite water not be potable.

Everybody Clean-up

Camping should be a time for all family members to relax. Take turns sharing the chores and get everyone involved, inside and out of the tent and RV. Practice the Camper’s Code principles which means cleaning up after yourself and leaving the campsite better than you found it.

What to Wear

Clothing selection should be tailored to the destination, weather conditions and activities and outings. Rain Gear: Invest in waterproof boots, a water-resistant coat and an umbrella. Layering Pieces: Pack versatile clothes such as breathable long-sleeved shirts and lightweight tops and underclothes to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, and extra socks should shoes and socks get wet. Sun Protection: Shield yourself from rays with a baseball cap or fishing hat. Sunscreen is a must! Footwear: Bring suitable footwear such as hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes. Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are essential, particularly if you’ll be using communal showers or hiking near water.

The more you camp, the more planning an outing will be second nature. Reflect on what worked well and what didn’t after each trip and use the above tips and your gained knowledge to improve upon future camping adventures.

A good resource to help find all campgrounds (provincial, private, national and recreation sites) located throughout British Columbia is www.campingrvbc.com/camping. You can also make a reservation at some provincial parks at DiscoverCamping. For national parks go to Parks Canada Reservation Service. To reserve at a private facility, contact the individual campground. More information on Recreation Sites can be found at sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Share your BC camping, RVing and travel photos using hashtag #CampinBC #explorebc

It’s always a great day to #Campinbc

Gift Ideas for Your Camping Friends & Family

With only one month until the start of the holiday season, it’s time to bring you my Five Favourite Finds that make great holiday gifts for the avid camper or traveler. Or you may be just looking for a new item to gift yourself.  There are always things out there in the universe that we never realized that we actually needed until we see someone with something that piques our interest.  For me this happens every time I walk around a campsite.

The Outbound Breathable Neoprene Water Shoe

Because beach activities are rated as the number one thing that people like to do while camping, it goes without saying that the first item is beach related.  We lug enough items to the beach, so why carry more things than really necessary.  I don’t want to wear some sneakers to get to the beach and flip flops or sandals that are really not that easy to maneuver in the water.  The Outbound breathable neoprene water shoes, from Canadian Tire – A real game changer when it comes to the ability to “Walk on Water:”, okay at least rocks.  With the use of high-quality treads, this makes walking to the beach a breeze.  You may have to buy a gift card for your recipient as they may or may not have them in stock for the holiday giving.  But you may find it at another retailer.  Just look for a good bendable sole with a breathable upper.

UCO StakeLight Tent Stakes with LED Light & Emergency Strobe

I have not bought this item, but I think it opens up a whole new world to tent campers especially, but to all campers.  The stakes can be placed in the ground to mark pathways, guy lines and more, as they can illuminate for more than 10 hours using area mode and longer in the strobe mode.  Each one uses a single AAA battery and are over 10” long and 4” wide.  Imagine the ambiance these could provide.

The Heated Vest by Ororo

Do you limit the time you go camping because you’re always too cold?  Well, no more, get out there and go camping any time of the year, in any weather, thanks to the heated vest.  From a passing glance, it looks just like any other vest that you see fellow campers wearing.  The difference with this is that it has three levels of easy to press buttons, that will keep you toasty and you’ll be out for those crisp air walks in no time.  I suggest you buy one for a few family members, they offer savings when you buy more.

The Battery Buddy

It’s the camping gadget I didn’t know I needed until I saw one in action, and it made me want to purchase one right away and I did.  I have seen them at other retailers, but the one I have, I purchased from Costco.  Before I had batteries here and there, in this drawer, in that cupboard.  Sometimes it would be a dead battery I found.  Now they are in one handy little place.  I can fit AAA’s, AA’s, C, D and 9 Volt batteries and even better it comes with a tester so you’re not throwing out batteries or guessing if they’re still good at the end of the camping season.   I liked it so much I bought one for the home and one for the RV.

Portable Hammock Stand with Carry Bag

I camp 30 to 40 days a year at best.  Have you ever gone to a campsite with your hammock and the trees are not there to participate in hammock time?  They are either too far apart, too skinny, or too far away.  With this gift, that is no longer a problem because of the Portable Hammock stand with Carry Bag.  I purchased mine from Amazon.   I love setting up my hammock and spending quality time in it, reading and the occasional nap.  I did purchase an additional hammock, because it came with a mosquito net, which was great.  I can now relax, read a book, and not be bothered by the bugs or even the needles that drop from the trees.  With a regular conventional hammock in a tree, you can’t set it up in the rain but this one I can, I just put it up just outside my RV door under the awning.  It’s a real game changer for sure.  I’ll apologize ahead of time if you see me relaxing with it on a British Columbia beach – I intend to make use of the convenient carry bag the very next camping season.

I wish you all the best for the holiday season and look forward to seeing your posts on the Social Channels about your new acquires.

For campgrounds and RV parks in British Columbia check out our camping map.

Share your camping and travel photos at hashtag #CampInBC, #exploreBC

It’s always a great day to #CampInBC

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”

Exploring British Columbia’s Recreation Sites and Trails: Lundbom Lake

Lundbom Lake Sunset

Sometimes, the weather can be tough in the lower mainland of British Columbia. Rain and overcast skies can put a serious damper on our motivation to get out of the house and into the great outdoors. Last spring, we put the dreary weather behind us and headed to the Nicola Valley to explore Lundbom Lake, one of BC’s fabulous Recreation Sites.

After doing some preliminary research at home, we discovered that Lundbom Lake, less than half an hour from Merritt, offered a huge range of outdoor activity opportunities including fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATVing. Without a second thought, we loaded up our dog, our tent trailer, and our mountain bikes and headed for the much sunnier weather of BC’s interior for a weekend getaway.

Accessing Lundbom Lake is quite simple. From Merritt, take Highway 5A/97C (the Okanagan Connector) then turn off on Lundbom Lake Road – a well maintained gravel road. Upon leaving the highway, you first pass the Laurie Guichon Grasslands Interpretive Area. This is a really neat area with interpretive signage, a short trail, a viewing platform, and a wildlife tree. It makes for an interesting and informative stop to learn about grasslands ecology and local history.

Lundbom Lake Campsite

Next the road passes Marquart Lake, the first option for camping. Marquart Lake is interesting because the water level has been rapidly decreasing and you can clearly see where the lake used to be. Marquart Lake has both tenting and RV sites, but we chose to carry on to Lundbom Lake, another 5-10 minutes down the road.

As you crest the hill and begin the descent towards Lundbom Lake, you first come to the Lundbom Lake West campground. This site offers quite a few campsites, as well as horse corrals. As we are not horseback riders, we chose to keep going on the road around Lundbom Lake until we came to the Lundbom Lake East campground. Here we found our perfect campsite: sunny, only feet from the lake, and level – which made it easy to set up our tent trailer!

Heading Out on the Lundbom Mountain Bike Trail

After establishing our campsite, we had a great evening of board games, a campfire, and simply enjoying the beautiful weather. We were visited by the site operator who collected our camping fees (a very reasonable $12 per night) and gave us some tips on mountain biking in the area.

The next morning we unloaded our bikes, met up with family, and headed for the Lundbom/Tent Mountain Bike Trail. The trail, a 12-kilometer route managed by the Merritt Mountain Bike Association, is a fantastic beginner to intermediate ride leaving right from the campground. The trail has rolling hills, making it ideal for beginner mountain bikers like me who are nervous about the steep downhill sections of some mountain biking trails! The route follows old access roads and horse trails and is a great mix of open grasslands and treed areas which would provide welcome relief from the hot sun during the summer months.

Lundbom Mountain Bike Trail

As always when camping, it is important to remember that we are heading into areas where wildlife is present. On our bike ride, we saw a bear out enjoying the sunshine. Fortunately, the bear had very little interest in us and headed the other way as soon as it heard us coming, but it is always important to be Bear Aware  when heading into the wilderness.

After our ride we returned to the campground where we had a great conversation with a woman who was out for a day of fishing. She told us that Lundbom Lake has amazing fishing opportunities and even gave us a hint as to the “secret spot” to catch the biggest fish!

Our weekend at Lundbom Lake gave us a break from the dreary lower mainland weather and the opportunity to easily (and inexpensively) access the outdoors. We will definitely be back as our weekend away only scratched at the surface of the many things to do at this BC Recreation Site.

For a range of camping opportunities in British Columbia visit Where to Camp and share your BC camping and travel photos on #CampinBC.

First published November 2017 and updated September 2019.

Published: September 25th, 2019