Crystal Clear Waters of Johnson Lake

Note:

We remind anyone who visits Johnson Lake to recognize their environmental impact. The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations' Recreation Sites and Trails branch is actively managing the site by blocking motorized boats, limiting parking, and ensuring visitors only camp in designated camping sites.

Those who do choose to visit Johnson Lake are asked to follow these guidelines:

• There is a recommended engine power restriction of 7.5 kw (10 HP) – for fishing purposes only.
• There are only 12 campsites, and it is on a first come first serve basis. If the recreation site is full, please consider camping at one of the many recreation sites on Adams Lake (www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca) . Do not camp in non-designated sites.
• There is a limited amount of parking near the recreation site, once this is full, please consider visiting Johnson Lake another day.
• Pack out what you pack in
• This lake has been here for many years and will continue to be here for many more years. If the area is full, consider visiting another day. Be aware of your environmental footprint at this unique recreation feature.

We ask that anyone who does visit this area to clean up after themselves and work to preserve this pristine lake.

Location: High country, north of Kamloops and the Shuswap in British Columbia.

This lake is without a doubt one of the most beautifully clear lakes I have ever seen. However, there is an advisory stating that anyone planning to visit the lake is asked to be respectful and clean up after themselves.

It would be tragic to see such an astounding lake not be respected the way that it should.

Directions we followed:

There’s a really good gravel road you can take that gives you access to the resort that is suitable for cars, motorhomes, and trailers. The driving time from both Kamloops and the Shuswap is about 1.5 hours.

When travelling from Kamloops, follow these directions:

- 60 km north of Kamloops on Highway 5 to Agate Bay Road turnoff (turn right)

- 22 km on the paved road to Minova Road turnoff (turn left)

- 16 km on the gravel road to the resort (follow the signs)

On our trip to explore one of the most glorious lakes in B.C., we decided to bring our canoe in order to get spectacular, one-of-a-kind views from off the hiking trails.

Right away we noticed the glorious colours of Johnson Lake, which is due to the limestone in the area.

For our canoe trip, we made sure to bring a slack line so we could lounge on floatie chairs and take in the surrounding nature views. The water is a little chilly, but it felt refreshing because of the hot temperatures.

After our paddle, we made sure to have a picnic lunch in the cool shade. Then we packed up and headed out, saying goodbye to the crystal clear waters.

Please keep in mind that there are no beaches anywhere around Johnson Lake as the trees come right up to the edge of the water.

I hope you enjoy the views and water as much as we did! Please be respectful and take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints!

- Carlee Kish (Nature Jane)

Carlee Kish is a 23-year-old hiking enthusiast who has lived in Kelowna for two years now. Originally from Regina, Saskatchewan, Kish fell in love with the mountains and hiking during a family trip as a youngster. She has a passion for the wilderness and capturing it along the way with beautiful photos. Kish lives for the outdoors and you can follow her adventures as she relishes in moss during her captivating hikes and boundless adventures. Be sure to follow Carlee's adventures on Instagram @CarleeKish.