As beautiful as the Okanagan is, there are many unrivalled campgrounds and provincial parks all over B.C. If you are looking for a wilderness getaway this weekend, these renowned campsites should provide everything you need, weather permitting of course! We are still in B.C., so be sure to check that local forecast before loading up all the gear.
There is a lot to remember when it comes to picking your desired campsite. Most of this happens before you even leave the house, so make sure to consider what you want your camping experience to be like.
First thing’s first, when you’re planning a camping trip, determine how far you are willing to go. While remote areas may be quieter and more secluded, you can get plenty of wilderness enjoyment from provincial parks located just off major highways.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Alouette Lake is located 11km north of Maple Ridge in the Golden Ears Provincial Park. This camping crevice is one of the busiest campgrounds in the province, and after a long offseason, it will be officially opening during May long weekend for first-come, first-serve visitors. If you want to get out on that lake this weekend, canoe, kayak and peddle-boat rentals are available in the day-use areas of the lake.
A lot of the time the cost to camp is vastly different from site to site. Provincial campground rates range from $10-$30 per night, but private camping spots will be a little bit more on the pricey side. Whichever you choose to explore, make sure you bring cash, ATM machines are not typically common on campgrounds.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Located just off Highway 99 and 13 km north of Squamish, Alice Lake is an incredibly popular spot is almost always busy, and for very good reason. There are four beautiful freshwater lakes and 10 hiking trails of varying difficulty surrounding the area, so campers are never searching for something to do!
The perfect campground for you should provide equal opportunities for both relaxation and distraction from everyday life. Over the course of a weekend, you might feel a strong desire to take the boat out and water-ski, or go for a cool swim on a hot day. If you have small children, perhaps a campsite close to an attraction, such as a water-park or a civilization hub would be the best option for you.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
As far as activities provided by the surrounding community, Cultus Lake is unmatched. While the provincial park itself offers the usual camping activities such as hiking, swimming and fishing, Cultus Lake also offers attractions such as go-carts, water slides, two golf courses, bumper boats, mini-golf and several fantastic restaurants will fill up your weekend plans fast. This popular spot is located 11 km southwest of Chilliwack, and is sure to be a hot spot this weekend.
You might be a social camper who enjoys interacting with your neighbours, and that‘s great. Or you might be more in the mood for a private getaway to the B.C. wilderness. As a camper however, it can be complicated. Noise travels far when camping, and a quick glance at a site map can help you select a spot that is as secluded as possible.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
If you’re camping plans this weekend permit you to travel over to Vancouver Island, where English River Falls Provincial Park. This campground guarantees to make the trip worth it. Located north of Nanaimo and 13 km southwest of Parksville, the river hiking trails provide amazing views of two waterfalls, as well as boasting spectacular views from bridges overlooking several river canyons. The hikes are simple, but provide visuals only expert hikers usually get.
Be honest with yourself about what “roughing it” means to you, and it will go a long way towards an enjoyable trip. Some campsites offer full bathrooms with flush toilets, while others feature pit toilets. Camping is something different to everyone, so be sure you know what kind of trip you want and whether or not that includes hot showers.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The campgrounds in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park will take you a little bit farther away from civilization, but they might also be some of the most beautiful. Located on the western shore of Vancouver Island, the campground features phenomenal beaches and day use areas a short 1 km hike away. There is nothing quite like spending your May long walking along the Pacific Ocean.
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