Canoeing/kayaking Archives - Page 2 of 2

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Canoeing/kayaking

Okanagan Lake

Located on Okanagan Lake, these parks are a perfect spot for swimming and water activities. North Park open from May 20 to September 19. South Park open from March 24 to October 9. Winter rates apply from October 10 to early November. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season. Firewood is available for sale at…

Kickininee

With convenient access off Hwy 97, the three tiny picnic areas provide relaxation as well as boating and fishing opportunities on Okanagan Lake. Check website for updates.

Inkaneep

Inkaneep Provincial Park is nestled in tall riverside cottonwoods in a residential area. This park offers wonderful bird watching opportunities. Park users should use caution when hiking around this park; poison ivy is abundant in this area. The park is conveniently located just outside of the town of Oliver. Open mid-May through mid-September.

sẁiẁs/Haynes Point

Surrounded by warm water and sandy beaches, haynes Point is a popular destination area in the Okanagan Valley. The park has 80 metres of boardwalk and a viewing platform overlooking a natural marsh. There is a 7 day maximum stay, and reservations are highly recommended from June – September. Firewood is available for sale. Open…

Bear Creek

The park offers lakeside camping, over 400 metres of sandy beach, and 5 km of hiking trails in the canyon. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season as the park will now be 100% reservable from March 31 to October 16. Firewood and ice is available for sale. Debit, Credit, Cash are accepted. Open from…

Otter Lake

This park offers a day-use area in the village of Tulameen and a lakeside campground about 5 km from village. Wildlife viewing includes otters, beavers, mountain goats, cougars, and grizzly bears in more remote sections. Otter Lake is 100% reservable. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season. This park accepts CASH ONLY. Firewood is available…

Manning (E.C. Manning)

Manning Park is a popular four-season destination area in British Columbia with driving access to the Sub-Alpine Meadows in the summer. It is also the end point of the Pacific Crest Trail spanning from Mexico to BC. Summer features: camping, hiking, biking, stargazing, horseback riding, bird and wildlife watching, fishing, canoeing/kayaking/paddle boarding (boat rentals available) and new playground. Winter features:…

Cathedral

Cathedral Park is a very popular hiking area, but the season can be very short due to the high elevation and potential for snow. The season is generally mid June to late September. No vehicles are allowed into the core area on the private access road. Cathedral Lakes Lodge provides jeep transportation service (fee for…

Bromley Rock

Located across from a striking rock bluff along the Similkameen River. The day-use is very popular for picnicking and swimming. This area of the Similkameen River is very popular with kayakers. Bromley Rock is 100% reservable. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season. Firewood is available for sale. This park accepts CASH ONLY. Open from…

Allison Lake

This is a convenient spot located on the scenic Hwy 5A. Douglas Fir and Pine groves throughout this rustic campground give each campsite a quiet privacy to enjoy the great outdoors. Nearby Allison Lake is a hub for fishing, bird watching and wildlife viewing. Firewood is available for sale. Allison Lake now offers reservations on…

Mara

Activities include swimming, boating and fishing.

Mabel Lake

Spring and fall at Mabel Lake are a fisherman’s delight. The treed campsites, sandy beaches, clear water, and large grassy areas are a great recipe for family fun in the summer. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season. Firewood is available for sale. Ice sales available at nearby store. Due to remote location, this park…

Kekuli Bay

Situated on Kalamalka Lake, Kekuli Bay is a popular destination for boaters, RVers and tenters alike and is an excellent springboard to all the sunny Okanagan has to offer. The park is terraced and all campsites have sweeping panoramic views of the beautiful Kalamalka Lake. It also offers 4 power hook-up RV sites and four…

Kalamalka Lake

Trails wind through nature’s beauty and lead the adventurer to spectacular views and private beaches. Jade and Juniper Bays offer some of the best swimming and picnicking in the Okanagan. 13 km of well-marked hiking, biking and horse back riding trails. Check website for updates.

Fintry

2km of lakefront offers a variety of swimming and watersport opportunities. The campground is situated on a flat delta which is perfect for young families and seniors to enjoy walking, biking and rollerblading. A short hike up the stairway takes you to the spectacular Shorts Creek water falls which peak in the spring and are…

Ellison

Spacious campsites are situated in a forest setting up above some of the Okanagan’s finest beaches. Ellison is perfect for fun-filled family adventures and beach activities. For your recreation pleasure, there is a scenic nature trail and mountain biking trails which are perfect for all ages and abilities. Reservations are strongly advised during peak season….

Skagit Valley

The Skagit Valley provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities in a natural, wilderness setting. The park offers 50 km of horse trails and is a very popular fishing area. Note: Ross Lake campground is located on a reservoir. The level of water in the reservoir fluctuates greatly. July and August are the only months when the…

Silver Lake

This park is a small, largely undeveloped lakefront area. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking and boating against a spectacular mountain backdrop or take pleasure in a rustic camping experience.

Sasquatch

This park is ideal for small motor (under 10 hp) boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing. Sasquatch Park also offers 7 km of hiking trails, 3 boat launches and canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available at the Hicks Lake boat launch. Winter camping is available at Lakeside/Deer Lake dependant on snowfall levels.

Cultus Lake

This park is one of the most popular destinations in the Lower Mainland, particularly on weekends during the summer. The park is encompassed by a large, warm, freshwater lake surrounded by forest-clad mountains. The lake offers ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, picnicking, and exploring the lake from the comfort of a small motorboat. Canoe, kayak,…

Chilliwack Lake

A popular park for hiking, fishing, small motor-boating, canoeing and kayaking. 40 km of hiking trails are great for wildlife viewing and enjoying nature. Those seeking a wilderness camping experience can access the campgrounds located at Greendrop, Lindeman, Flora, and Radium Lakes.

Rolley Lake

The lake offers a sandy beach, swimming area and canoeing/kayaking (no power or electric motors). There is a walking trail around the lakeshore and wildlife viewing from the boardwalk.

Golden Ears

This park offers many outdoor activities. Canoe rentals at South Beach day-use area.

Porteau Cove

Only 45 minute drive north of Vancouver, enjoy the experience of ocean front camping at Porteau Cove. The day-use area offers picnic sites in a grassy area along the shore with gorgeous views of Howe Sound and Anvil Island. Porteau Cove is also accessible by water; a mooring float (with no shore access) is located…

Plumper Cove Marine

Paddle, power or sail to Plumper Cove Marine Park and enjoy one of the most beautiful settings in the region. Water taxi service is available from Gibsons. Docking is available for boats up to 13 meters. The park includes a day-use area with large lawn, picnic sites, ocean view, and room for activities. Firewood is…

Murrin

Enjoy a relaxing picnic in the sun with your friends and family while having access to swimming, fishing and rock climbing. For climbers, there are various climbing walls to choose from.

Halkett Bay

Halkett Bay offers a wilderness camping experience in a marine environment, just minutes north of Horseshoe Bay by boat. Access to land is available using the small float and dock. Only dinghies are permitted to be tied up at the dock for extended periods of time. Campfires not permitted at this park.

Garibaldi

Garibaldi Park’s rich geological history, diverse vegetation, snow-capped mountains, iridescent waters, abundant wildlife and scenic vistas all contribute to the immense beauty, and make it a year round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can access over 90km of hiking trails that take them to popular destinations including Elfin Lakes, Garibaldi Lake, and Panorama Ridge. This is purely…

Duffey Lake

Established as a provincial park in 1993, this park is centered around the picturesque Duffey Lake and overshadowed by the Mt. Rohr. A popular spot for canoeing, kayaking and wildlife viewing. The park offers a rough gravel boat launch, but use caution, as the wind can be strong on the lake. The Duffey Lake area…

Birkenhead Lake

One of the Sea to Sky’s best-kept secrets! Enjoy the peace and tranquility associated with wilderness camping from the comforts of a drive-in campground, situated only three hours north of Vancouver. A spacious day-use area includes sandy beaches, several picnic sites, a designated swimming area, and a concrete boat launch. The area includes over 11 km of…

Alice Lake

A camping experience for the whole family with a variety of activities to choose from including walking/hiking trails leading to other lakes, views of the Squamish River and Tantalus Mountain Range, mountain biking, swimming, and a playground. The day-use area includes three picnic areas, each located by sandy beaches with access to the lake. Canoe,…

Smuggler Cove Marine

A small picturesque all-weather anchorage on the south side of Sechelt Peninsula near Secret Cove.

Skookumchuck Narrows

Trails and viewing areas allow visitors to experience the incredible power of the turbulent tidal rapids.

Sargeant Bay

Splendid ocean beaches, rocky headlands, lagoons and forests. Excellent for walking and nature viewing.

Saltery Bay

Scuba diving provides a close-up look at the abundant marine life and a 3 metre bronze mermaid statue.

Porpoise Bay

Coastal family oriented park and an excellent base camp for paddlers exploring the Sechelt Inlet.

Inland Lake

Offers 13 km of wheelchair accessible trail around Inland Lake.

Wallace Island Marine

Numerous beaches, coves and islets for paddlers to explore. Wildlife viewing. Please respect the adjacent private properties.

Wakes Cove – Valdes Island

A popular destination featuring a sheltered anchorage that offers rustic hiking trails, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Expect to see a stand of old-growth Coastal Douglas Fir, as well as Arbutus trees, Garry Oaks and endangered plant species. No overnight camping.

Ruckle – Salt Spring Island

This park has a fascinating farm history as the Ruckle family’s involvement with this land dates back to 1872. There are extensive hiking trails, beachcombing and heritage farm buildings to explore. An excellent wildlife viewing area. Interpretive Programs run during summer months. Firewood is available for sale.

Pirates Cove Marine – De Courcy Island

Potential for whale-watching through Ruxton Pass or Pylades Channel. Fires are not permitted in the park or on the beach at any time. Camp stove for cooking only. There are no disposal facilities so please practice “leave no trace” ethics.

Montague Harbour Marine Park – Galiano Island

Interpretive programs run throughout the summer months. Firewood is available for sale.

Discovery Island Marine

Excellent kayaking opportunities make the park a popular destination for visitors and local residents. No fires and no disposal facilities, please practice “Leave No Trace” ethics.

Bellhouse – Galiano Island

A great spot for picnicking and ferry watching. The park offers excellent views of busy Active Pass, Mayne Island, and the Strait of Georgia.

West Shawnigan Lake

This popular summer destination is idyllic for enjoying a family picnic. Nearby, the lake offers opportunities for boating, waterskiing and windsurfing.

Sooke Potholes

The park provides access to series of deep, polished rock pools and potholes carved naturally into the sandstone bedrock of Sooke River. It is a favourite day-use destination for families who enjoy swimming, tubing and fishing.

Koksilah River

Adjacent to Koksilah River, this undeveloped park offers hiking, picnicking, fishing and swimming opportunities. Camping no longer available.

Juan de Fuca

Scenic beauty, spectacular hiking, marine/wildlife viewing, and roaring surf in its course along the Pacific coastline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A 47 km trail from China Beach to Botanical Beach is used for hiking, camping, and surfing. It ranges from moderate to difficult, and features suspension bridges and spectacular views.

Gowlland Tod

Gowlland Tod provides an excellent and extensive network of over 25 km of hiking trails, offering spectacular vistas, wildlife viewing, and opportunity for nature appreciation. In spring and early summer, moss-covered rocky knolls come alive with colourful, vibrant wildflowers. Tod Inlet provides boaters a view of the Butchart Gardens fireworks display in July and August.

Gordon Bay

Gordon Bay, on Lake Cowichan, is family vacationing at its best! The warm lake and sandy beach makes for great summer family swimming. In Vancouver Island’s sunniest valley, this area has the highest average temperature in Canada. Spectacular fishing in spring, fall, winter, with waterskiing and windsurfing in the summer. Campground open year round.

French Beach

The 1,600-meter beach is ideal for exploring and whale watching. Gray whales pass by in spring as they migrate north and then return again in fall. Roaming pods of resident killer whales, as well as otters, seals, sea lions can be seen offshore. Campground is open year round.

Cowichan River

If it’s outdoor recreation you’re after, Cowichan River Park is the place to go. Great for swimming, canoeing, white-water kayaking, tubing, camping, fishing, and hiking. Also, it’s a great place to take it easy in the sun; you’re bound to find something to do in this “recreation corridor”. Stoltz Pool is open year round.

Bamberton

The 225-meter long sandy beach makes this park an ideal spot for families. Lounge in the sand and enjoy the view, while the kids frolic in the water. Campground open year round.

Taylor Arm

Group camping, two day-use areas for picnicking and undeveloped beach areas for visitors to enjoy many water activities on Sproat Lake. A short trail from the campground area leads to the lake. For reservations of the group campsites, please contact Discover Camping 1-800-689-9025 or www.discovercamping.ca.

Squitty Bay – Lasqueti Island

This small park is a pleasant place to enjoy a picnic or spend a day exploring rocky headlands and arid terrain.

Sproat Lake

A popular destination for swimming, fishing, waterskiing and, when the wind is up, windsurfing. Short hiking trails lead visitors around the park, including a trail to the east end of Sproat Lake which leads to one of the finest panels of prehistoric petroglyphs in BC.

Spider Lake

A very popular day-use destination; Spider Lake provides great swimming and fishing opportunities and is only 20 minutes from Rathtrevor Beach or Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

Rathtrevor Beach

One of the most popular destinations on Vancouver Island, reservations are recommended. Over 2 km of sandy beach and 5.5 km of hiking trails within the park. There are many day trips accessible from Rathtrevor, and it is only 30 minutes from the Nanaimo Ferry Terminal. Camping is available year round.

Saysutshun/Newcastle Island Marine – Newcastle Island

This family friendly park is accessible only by foot passenger ferry or boat. With breathtaking views of the Coastal Mountains and the Harbour City, the island offers a unique natural, historical and cultural experience for visitors.

Maquinna Marine (Hot Springs Cove)

This Park boasts naturally occurring hot springs and pools that interface with the tidal flux. There is a strictly enforced “leave no trace” policy – pack out everything you pack in. The Hot Springs are a highly fragile ecosystem and detergents or soaps are prohibited.

Little Qualicum Falls

Little Qualicum Falls is the perfect base camp to explore the awe-inspiring Cathedral Grove of MacMillan Park. Afterwards, return to Little Qualicum Falls to camp, hike, and relax. Campground closed October through April.

Kennedy Lake

Popular lake and beach; visitors can swim, kayak, fish and windsurf in summer (use extreme caution as winds may whip up with little warning due to mountains and size of lake). View spawning sockeye in the fall as well as black bears.

Jedediah Island Marine – Jedediah Island

3.5 km of trails cross the island to connect the secluded bays. Hike to the homestead to view the remaining barn and other structures and the vast orchard. Please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics and bring your own water.

Horne Lake Caves

In-cave temperatures around 8 degrees C (46 F).Explorers should wear sturdy footwear and warm clothing. Guided tours available year-round. Reserve ahead.

Hemer

11 km of hiking trails encompassing protected wetlands and a Douglas Fir forest around Holden Lake.

Gabriola Island – Gabriola Island

All 3 parks allow for spectacular vistas of the Strait of Georgia, making them a great day trip adventure from Rathtrevor Beach or Englishman River Falls.

Tribune Bay – Hornby Island

Tribune Bay located on Hornby Island is nicknamed “Little Hawaii” and features white sandy beaches that stretch endlessly out to meet an aquamarine sea. Boasting close to 1 km of fine white sand beach, the south-facing Tribune Bay is easily one of the most spectacular on the east side of Vancouver Island. Here, shallow waters…

Strathcona

Buttle Lake and Ralph River offer serene base camps, from which one can venture out to any of the 52 kilometres of hiking trails in the mountains of the very rare Strathcona wilderness area. The extensive trail system is suitable for day or overnight hikes, with hikes ranging in duration from 2 to 8 hours….

Smelt Bay – Cortes Island

The campground features multi-tiered sites with tent pads located in private locations and a beautiful communal cook shelter. This campground is a fantastic destination for tenters and smaller RVs. The day use area features a sand and pebble beach that is good for marine exploration at low tide. Reservations are recommended in the peak season….

Schoen Lake

Schoen Lake, one of the most beautiful parks on Vancouver Island, has countless opportunities for wilderness hiking, backpacking, boating, fishing and swimming. This park is operated by Namgis First Nation.

Sandy Island Marine (Jáji7em and Kw’ulh Marine) – Denman Island

Sandy Island is marine accessible or walkable during low tide when a sandy spit between the two islands appears.

Rebecca Spit Marine – Quadra Island

Walking trails lead along both sides of Rebecca Spit and offer ample opportunities for exploring the beach, which contains a high concentration of driftwood. Swimming, fishing and kayaking are all popular activities at Rebecca Spit’s large picnic area. Facilities include picnic tables overlooking the beach, a grass playing field and wheelchair accessible pit toilets at…

Morton Lake

Morton Lake is a best kept secret. The beautiful, rustic campground offers great fishing, swimming and canoeing opportunities. The day-use area is a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Reservations are recommended in the peak season however 50% of this campground is set aside for first come, first serve camping. In addition, this park…

Miracle Beach

A favourite destination for both locals and family camping groups, few locations on Vancouver Island compare to popular Miracle Beach Provincial Park. The campground and surrounding area features a large sandy beach on the ocean ideal for sunbathing, beach combing, and swimming. At low tide, the beach features rich tide pools, perfect for observing a…

Mansons Landing – Cortes Island

Saltwater lagoon with a natural 365-metre spit and fresh water swimming on Hague Lake. No camping permitted; however, camping is available at nearby Smelt Bay Provincial Park.

Loveland Bay

A secluded and sought-after hideaway on peaceful Campbell Lake. The pristine and stunning lakeside sites are a popular destination in the summer months. Campbell Lake is ideal for canoeing, boating and swimming. Loveland Bay is 100% reservable and reservations are recommended. If you aren’t fortunate enough to get a reservation for Loveland Bay consider beautiful…

Helliwell – Hornby Island

Spectacular views of marine life, the Strait of Georgia and the Coast Mountains can be had from any point along the bluffs. As you explore the park’s meandering hiking and walking trails, you will find weather-beaten old-growth Douglas firs and gnarled Garry oaks, as well as flora and fauna which may seem more at home…

Fillongley – Denman Island

Fillongley boasts ocean side camping in a compact 10 site park that is ideal for both RVs and tenters. This park is extremely popular and is 100% reservable from April 1st to October 31st; reservations are strongly recommended. 1-night overflow camping may be available for tenters and small RVs (space permitting). This park offers winter…

Cape Scott

The park offers more than 115 km of scenic ocean frontage, including about 30 km of spectacular remote beaches. There are many bears throughout Cape Scott and visitors should be well prepared for wildlife encounters and changing weather. Day hikers can explore San Josef Bay, an easy 3 km one way hike from the trailhead….

Broughton Archipelago Marine

The park offers excellent boating and wildlife viewing opportunities. Extremely popular with sea kayakers. Please practice “Leave No Trace” ethics.

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