- Ainsworth Hot Springs
Wheelchair-accessible camping near Ainsworth Hot Springs
99% (62) • 9 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ainsworth Hot Springs
Laid Back Manor Farm
1. Laid Back Manor Farm
95%
(29)
53km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV
There was a dream......come visit to learn more!! Current update:
The site is quiet and private and you likely won't see another human unless you go wandering. The hiking on our 7 acres is brilliant fun, with trails all over - riverside and beyond with excellent trails 5 minutes to 40 or more away -Wander all morning and shoot longbow all afternoon on the target range. A day well spent!! There are so many options for outdoor fun here. Canoeing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and archery totally do-able if these are up your alley. My chef skills are at the disposal of guests as usual, upon request. With 12 years of industry experience as a 'back house line cook and chef de partie' I can provide an exceptional meal anytime you need to refuel. It's peaceful and 'laid back' beyond measure here in Summer - and there's always a cool dip in the river if guests feel like cooling off. Grayson (your host) has traveled the world many times over, in many countries, and is also a 4rth generation local in the Kaslo/Kootenay area - an Aussie Canadian and something of a paradox!! So conversation is never boring around here - especially when the mead comes out (made in house and seasonally available). SKOL!!!
It's a 'laid back farm' because despite working the land every day, we try not to push too hard and take it easy enough to enjoy the place. There's prime wildlife viewing by the river and in 'Deerhaven' the forested area down there. The focus is on nature here, so please no quads or dirtbikes ripping around - the "Duncan Lake highway" is just up the road for that sort of thing!! Mosquitoes can be bad at certain peak dates (which change yearly according to conditions)
The 'farm' aspect and focus is all on gardens, orchards, and landscaping, no livestock/animals except Mr.Finnegan the Aussie red heeler^^
Things keep changing, and bees are a long-term goal once the orchard is more developed. There is wildcrafting available with a variety of native flora and a free tour to describe what's in season if you'd like to pick your own.
The river level is controlled by the Duncan Dam, and at a high level, there's a private diving board and deck space riverside which is also an amazing place to tan, do yoga, or just relax. At low water the fishing is good and there are good size bull trout in there!! There are trails through forested areas on the property and a new outhouse between the mill shed and river.
The riverside area is a wildlife corridor so be prepared to see deer, bears, eagles, osprey, wild turkeys, kingfishers, cedar waxwings, mountain bluebirds, the odd rare coyote/cougar, and possibly elk among others!! Generally, it's pretty quiet, but there are days......
If bears are a concern and you'd rather not have the possibility, camp closer to the mill shed, no worries. All the animals stick close to the river. There's never been any drama with the wildlife and we live in harmony here. The odd grizzly bear shows up, and we keep a close eye on them and take logical precautions. Please be bear aware.....
August and September are high alert for grizzly bears as the Kokanee (inland salmon) spawn in the river right here!! So schools of redfish will be swimming around down there - they don't eat while spawning and they're protected, but it's quite a sight to see. The grizzlies tend to head straight to the spawning channel upriver to gorge and we rarely see any here, but it is wise to be aware of the possibility. The river is perfect for swimming and diving in high water, but very cold (glacial runoff) which is amazingly refreshing, but don't count on being in it for hours.
There's a ladder for a convenient exit from the water and the diving board is perfect!! There's loads of space for tents down by the river, and a glorious 'sacred grove' full of elderberry trees that's quite a breathtaking tent site. The mill shed has standpipes with clean running water from the well, and it's about the cleanest, freshest water on Earth. Glorious. If you need electricity for charging devices it's available at the cabin, as well as wifi. No wifi by the river, sorry, totally off-grid down there and will remain so. There's also a '9 hole' archery course if this is of interest, max.50# draw and longbows only, please. You're welcome to use the targets free of charge if you're staying the night.
As a semi-retired chef, writer, musician, farmer, English teacher, entrepreneur and revolutionary, your host can offer impressive gourmet meals to feed body and soul - made with local organic ingredients and great conscious awareness at an agreed-upon price according to your needs. The garden is full of organic veggies, and there may be fresh venison or wild turkey if you're here in the fall. Please no hunting and no guns if you are a guest. There are amazing day and multi-day hikes within minutes or hours drive, and as a local of many years, your host can provide excellent advice and directions. Grayson and Finnegan look forward to meeting you and seeing to it that you're well situated and outfitted for a good time in the Canadian Outback!!
Looking for a quiet, peaceful, private wilderness retreat? This place is rrreally beautiful and I'm looking forward to hosting for another glorious year of laid back wilderness camping. Cheers to all of you and HAPPY TRAILS!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$32
/ night
The Watershed Campground Balfour BC
2. The Watershed Campground Balfour BC
97%
(15)
14km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on Kootenay Lake in Balfour BC, The Watershed Campground is located 20 minutes from the adventurous city of Nelson and 30 minutes to the quaint village of Kaslo.
We welcome all types of campers with a mix of full hook up sites and traditional dry camping sites. Max trailer size is 25ft.
Onsite flush toilets are available for campers.
Guests have access to the beach for all of the water activities including, but not limited to:
swimming
fishing
boating (nearby rentals)
floating
SUP (bring your own)
kayak/canoe (bring your own)
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
CA$49
/ night
Blacktail Ridge
3. Blacktail Ridge
100%
(20)
66km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Set on 55 acres of rolling hillside in the community known as Wynndel B.C., Blacktail Ridge is a quick 15 min N of Creston and only 20 min S of Kuskanook Harbour. Our large campsites provide plenty of space and privacy. There are only 6 sites available as the Deer, Elk, wild Turkey were here first!
When you arrive, we will meet you on the driveway and take you through our property and up to your campsite. You will be able to enjoy the hillsides trails and the views they provide. We also have a camp kitchen available for your use that boasts stunning views of the valley. Our shower house is a single unit that will not disappoint. Good water pressure and plenty of hot water.
We are a small Mom and Pop business still building campsites. And as they are completed, we will add them here for a you Hipcampers to see!
Feel free to reach out with any questions.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$65
/ night
Makinaak Crossing
4. Makinaak Crossing
8.4km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Private secluded camp sites nestled in the cedar forest along Crawford Creek.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
CA$23
/ night
Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
5. Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
100%
(4)
71km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging
Unique Mountain Retreat in Creston Valley’s Community Forest
For those seeking a unique touch, our geodesic dome provides comfortable, three-season glamping with awe-inspiring valley views.
Escape to our expansive 22-acre property that borders the serene, public-use land of Arrow and Goat Mountain, offering direct access to miles of rugged mountain paths and logging roads. Experience Creston Valley from a secluded clearing at the heart of nature—a private & peaceful spot with a furnished geodesic dome and plenty of room for additional trailers and tents.
Property Highlights:
• Exclusive Reservations: Privacy is guaranteed—only one group is booked at a time, so you’ll have the entire place to yourselves.
• Disc Golf and Exploration: Try out our private 9+ hole disc golf course or set out on endless trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Convenient Access to Creston & Nearby Lakes: Just a 15-minute drive to downtown Creston, Duck Lake, Kootenay Lake, Goat River, Summit Creek, Corn Creek Falls, and Kootenay River.
• Scenic Amenities: The outhouse comes with an unparalleled view, and you’ll also have access to a BBQ and a generator (available upon request).
Whether you’re here for comfort camping, glamping, or the ultimate rustic retreat, this property offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
A fun private 9+ hole disc golf course is built into the area you will be staying.
Note that to ensure the best experience possible, reservations are made to only one group at a time. If you want to feel like you are truly alone in the woods, this is the spot for you!
Note that this property is designed for a "glamping"/camping experience. The geodesic dome is not heated. While a small propane heater and warm bed are provided, please come prepared for the weather.
High-clearance AWD vehicle recommended if you plan to drive down the old road to the location, otherwise please plan to park up top (we can help shuttle down your stuff).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$120
/ night
99% (62) • 9 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ainsworth Hot Springs
Laid Back Manor Farm
1. Laid Back Manor Farm
95%
(29)
53km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV
There was a dream......come visit to learn more!! Current update:
The site is quiet and private and you likely won't see another human unless you go wandering. The hiking on our 7 acres is brilliant fun, with trails all over - riverside and beyond with excellent trails 5 minutes to 40 or more away -Wander all morning and shoot longbow all afternoon on the target range. A day well spent!! There are so many options for outdoor fun here. Canoeing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and archery totally do-able if these are up your alley. My chef skills are at the disposal of guests as usual, upon request. With 12 years of industry experience as a 'back house line cook and chef de partie' I can provide an exceptional meal anytime you need to refuel. It's peaceful and 'laid back' beyond measure here in Summer - and there's always a cool dip in the river if guests feel like cooling off. Grayson (your host) has traveled the world many times over, in many countries, and is also a 4rth generation local in the Kaslo/Kootenay area - an Aussie Canadian and something of a paradox!! So conversation is never boring around here - especially when the mead comes out (made in house and seasonally available). SKOL!!!
It's a 'laid back farm' because despite working the land every day, we try not to push too hard and take it easy enough to enjoy the place. There's prime wildlife viewing by the river and in 'Deerhaven' the forested area down there. The focus is on nature here, so please no quads or dirtbikes ripping around - the "Duncan Lake highway" is just up the road for that sort of thing!! Mosquitoes can be bad at certain peak dates (which change yearly according to conditions)
The 'farm' aspect and focus is all on gardens, orchards, and landscaping, no livestock/animals except Mr.Finnegan the Aussie red heeler^^
Things keep changing, and bees are a long-term goal once the orchard is more developed. There is wildcrafting available with a variety of native flora and a free tour to describe what's in season if you'd like to pick your own.
The river level is controlled by the Duncan Dam, and at a high level, there's a private diving board and deck space riverside which is also an amazing place to tan, do yoga, or just relax. At low water the fishing is good and there are good size bull trout in there!! There are trails through forested areas on the property and a new outhouse between the mill shed and river.
The riverside area is a wildlife corridor so be prepared to see deer, bears, eagles, osprey, wild turkeys, kingfishers, cedar waxwings, mountain bluebirds, the odd rare coyote/cougar, and possibly elk among others!! Generally, it's pretty quiet, but there are days......
If bears are a concern and you'd rather not have the possibility, camp closer to the mill shed, no worries. All the animals stick close to the river. There's never been any drama with the wildlife and we live in harmony here. The odd grizzly bear shows up, and we keep a close eye on them and take logical precautions. Please be bear aware.....
August and September are high alert for grizzly bears as the Kokanee (inland salmon) spawn in the river right here!! So schools of redfish will be swimming around down there - they don't eat while spawning and they're protected, but it's quite a sight to see. The grizzlies tend to head straight to the spawning channel upriver to gorge and we rarely see any here, but it is wise to be aware of the possibility. The river is perfect for swimming and diving in high water, but very cold (glacial runoff) which is amazingly refreshing, but don't count on being in it for hours.
There's a ladder for a convenient exit from the water and the diving board is perfect!! There's loads of space for tents down by the river, and a glorious 'sacred grove' full of elderberry trees that's quite a breathtaking tent site. The mill shed has standpipes with clean running water from the well, and it's about the cleanest, freshest water on Earth. Glorious. If you need electricity for charging devices it's available at the cabin, as well as wifi. No wifi by the river, sorry, totally off-grid down there and will remain so. There's also a '9 hole' archery course if this is of interest, max.50# draw and longbows only, please. You're welcome to use the targets free of charge if you're staying the night.
As a semi-retired chef, writer, musician, farmer, English teacher, entrepreneur and revolutionary, your host can offer impressive gourmet meals to feed body and soul - made with local organic ingredients and great conscious awareness at an agreed-upon price according to your needs. The garden is full of organic veggies, and there may be fresh venison or wild turkey if you're here in the fall. Please no hunting and no guns if you are a guest. There are amazing day and multi-day hikes within minutes or hours drive, and as a local of many years, your host can provide excellent advice and directions. Grayson and Finnegan look forward to meeting you and seeing to it that you're well situated and outfitted for a good time in the Canadian Outback!!
Looking for a quiet, peaceful, private wilderness retreat? This place is rrreally beautiful and I'm looking forward to hosting for another glorious year of laid back wilderness camping. Cheers to all of you and HAPPY TRAILS!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$32
/ night
The Watershed Campground Balfour BC
2. The Watershed Campground Balfour BC
97%
(15)
14km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on Kootenay Lake in Balfour BC, The Watershed Campground is located 20 minutes from the adventurous city of Nelson and 30 minutes to the quaint village of Kaslo.
We welcome all types of campers with a mix of full hook up sites and traditional dry camping sites. Max trailer size is 25ft.
Onsite flush toilets are available for campers.
Guests have access to the beach for all of the water activities including, but not limited to:
swimming
fishing
boating (nearby rentals)
floating
SUP (bring your own)
kayak/canoe (bring your own)
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
CA$49
/ night
Blacktail Ridge
3. Blacktail Ridge
100%
(20)
66km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Set on 55 acres of rolling hillside in the community known as Wynndel B.C., Blacktail Ridge is a quick 15 min N of Creston and only 20 min S of Kuskanook Harbour. Our large campsites provide plenty of space and privacy. There are only 6 sites available as the Deer, Elk, wild Turkey were here first!
When you arrive, we will meet you on the driveway and take you through our property and up to your campsite. You will be able to enjoy the hillsides trails and the views they provide. We also have a camp kitchen available for your use that boasts stunning views of the valley. Our shower house is a single unit that will not disappoint. Good water pressure and plenty of hot water.
We are a small Mom and Pop business still building campsites. And as they are completed, we will add them here for a you Hipcampers to see!
Feel free to reach out with any questions.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
CA$65
/ night
Makinaak Crossing
4. Makinaak Crossing
8.4km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Private secluded camp sites nestled in the cedar forest along Crawford Creek.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
CA$23
/ night
Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
5. Creston Valley Geodesic Dome & Camp
100%
(4)
71km from Ainsworth Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging
Unique Mountain Retreat in Creston Valley’s Community Forest
For those seeking a unique touch, our geodesic dome provides comfortable, three-season glamping with awe-inspiring valley views.
Escape to our expansive 22-acre property that borders the serene, public-use land of Arrow and Goat Mountain, offering direct access to miles of rugged mountain paths and logging roads. Experience Creston Valley from a secluded clearing at the heart of nature—a private & peaceful spot with a furnished geodesic dome and plenty of room for additional trailers and tents.
Property Highlights:
• Exclusive Reservations: Privacy is guaranteed—only one group is booked at a time, so you’ll have the entire place to yourselves.
• Disc Golf and Exploration: Try out our private 9+ hole disc golf course or set out on endless trails for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Convenient Access to Creston & Nearby Lakes: Just a 15-minute drive to downtown Creston, Duck Lake, Kootenay Lake, Goat River, Summit Creek, Corn Creek Falls, and Kootenay River.
• Scenic Amenities: The outhouse comes with an unparalleled view, and you’ll also have access to a BBQ and a generator (available upon request).
Whether you’re here for comfort camping, glamping, or the ultimate rustic retreat, this property offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
A fun private 9+ hole disc golf course is built into the area you will be staying.
Note that to ensure the best experience possible, reservations are made to only one group at a time. If you want to feel like you are truly alone in the woods, this is the spot for you!
Note that this property is designed for a "glamping"/camping experience. The geodesic dome is not heated. While a small propane heater and warm bed are provided, please come prepared for the weather.
High-clearance AWD vehicle recommended if you plan to drive down the old road to the location, otherwise please plan to park up top (we can help shuttle down your stuff).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$120
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Dawn and Fred
September 2025
24 ft travel trailer
Beautiful, peaceful site right beside the river where the red Kokanee were flipping in the water. Easy access with our 24ft trailer.
Thanks Jason!
See more
M
Mike
September 2025
21 ft travel trailer
Site 4 was awesome, as was Kait and her family. Loved the location and being able to go down to the dock and enjoy the peaceful mornings by the water!
See moreP
Peter
August 2025
25 ft campervan
Fabulous semi-wilderness with king-fisher, geese, ducks and while I was there, leaping bright orange kokanee primed for spawning season. Duncan dam was releasing huge amounts of water to nearly bank full for the first day. Ducks floated by at 10kph and it almost seemed that they would fly back upstream for another ride.
If you want an EMF holiday there was 1 wifi feed from the host and NOTHING else. No cell or other wifi. Also if you are there on a cloud free night there is the a nearly a complete milky-way.
On the downside, mosquitos were in full force during the day but checked out at dusk. Overall a great wildlife experience in a rustic spot.
See more
L
Liz
August 2025
26 ft Class C
Group trip
We had an awesome relaxing weekend at the watershed. Kait and J were great hosts and their boys provided top notch firewood deliveries.
We really enjoyed the beach and floating around in the water.
Pro tip: Bring your Crocs or Watershoes
See more
Diana
August 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
My husband and two poodles absolutely loved hanging out on the Laid Back Manor Farm. It felt like home. The site by the river is private, beautiful and spacious. The glacier fed river was like nature's air conditioning and definitely worth the cold plunge. Wildlife abounds and will not disappoint. We have a 30 foot motorhome and having such a beautiful level spot was amazing. The beauty of the area is intoxicating and host Jason is a superb host with culinary skills to boot! To be able to practice our archery skills was such a bonus. It was a difficult place to leave for so many reasons but for sure I will go back.
See more
L
Leo
August 2025
Tent
We loved camping at this spot, one of the best camp trips we've ever had. Great, friendly hospitality from Dean and Debbie and everything you would need for a great camping experience, including chopped firewood, wifi and drinking water right by the site. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets as well, and a lovely lounge area for cooking/washing dishes/hanging out, we will definitely return again when possible!
See more
S
Simone
August 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
You want peace and quiet, this place is for you.
Not a sole around except for host and his pup.
This area is so beautiful and relaxing.
Target practise with your bow or fish right off deck at site.
Try J food and you won’t be disappointed. 5 star meal.
Tips.
If you coming from the north on Hwy 31 it’s slow going and several switch backs. It took a lot longer then it looked on maps and google. Road is well maintained for a forestry truck road but some wash board and narrow passing. We didn’t see any vehicles except for a couple of quads. The scenery is spectacular. Beware there is no CELL service. So have your route laid out in screen shots with directions. Once you pass Meadowcreek ( Meadow creek community has a free WiFI hotspot and hot showers) look for Cooper Creek sign and the speed limit goes down to 60km/hr. It’s the first left after the signs.
If you kayak or paddle board, Howser and Glacier regional parks have great launch sites. Howser has a small beach for kids and dogs.
Also bring firewood. It’s hard to find. We went to Davis creek PP to get some, 10 mins drive.
Kaslo is 30 mins south. And has no big name stores. But well stocked and great places to eat.
Highly recommended and will be back. 😀
See moreJ
Jackie
August 2025
15 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Hookups and clean washrooms . The site had too many big boulders in the way. Tricky getting out.
See more
G
Glenn
August 2025
13 ft travel trailer
Just a lovely property up in the hills and quiet. Our spot was large and grassy and felt like home. The owners were amazing as well.
See moreJ
Jenn
July 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is such a beautiful piece of property. You can tell that Jason is a great stewart of the land. We swam and played with our dogs and explored this beautiful area of the country. I can’t recommend this place enough. It was incredibly quiet. One night we were woken up by (I think) foxes. We saw some bats. It was really fun to experience.
For folks planning on booking a stay here, bring cash for the hot showers at the community centre. Kaslo is the closest town with a bank machine and it’s an hour away or so. It’s also a beautiful spot and fun to explore. It would also be good to bring maps, we had no cell phone service. It’s not hard to get around at all, but in case you were wanting to go some place specific, you’ll want a working GPS!
See more
A
Alexander
July 2025
Group trip
Very awesome, everything about this property was perfect
See more
R
Rebecca
July 2025
21 ft campervan
With pets
Jason’s land is stunningly beautiful and our stay was a much needed system reset 😊 we would love to be back one day! Thank you for having us Jason!
See moreA
Andreas
July 2025
21 ft Class B
Group trip
This place and its charming host are very wonderful.
We would love to come back – but next time for a longer stay. It’s the perfect spot to truly relax and unwind.
Highlights:
A huge amount of space in the beautiful garden
Very nice view on the mountains
You stay on grass
Very quiet and peaceful surroundings
Shower and toilet in very good condition and Internet.
Exceptionally friendly and helpful host
We found this site as the best
See moreJ
Jenny
July 2025
With kids
Beautiful location! The Geodome was a neat experience! Ryan provided us with everything we needed and was very helpful making sure we had a great stay! Communications with Ryan were easy and he quickly answered any questions we had. The property is very large and had everything, from the netted gazebo, fire pit area, outdoor shower, and the nicest, cleanest, most amazing view outhouse!
See moreR
Riley
July 2025
16 ft car
Kait and her family were fantastic hosts. From staying up late for our arrival, to wood deliveries by her kids, you’ll feel part of the family too.
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N
Nora
July 2025
Tent
Jason’s tent spot was absolutely gorgeous. The new tent pad was perfect for our 2 person tent and allowed us to cook and hang off the edge.
Jason was a wonderful host, communicated as soon as we were booked to introduce himself.
Gave effective directions to his place and gave a great tour of the space.
Only word of warning - do not forget your bug spray. The pad is by the river which means mosquitos! But also means you can watch the bats do their job by the river at dusk.
Looking forward to stay there again.
See more
M
Matt
July 2025
19 ft campervan
Beautiful spot with lovely little chickens and turkeys running around. Debbie was a lovely host!
See more
A
Ali
July 2025
21 ft campervan
relaxed and beautiful site at Jason’s land! Jason was very kind and gave us a full tour of his property.
Highly recommend and we hope to be back!
See more
N
Nathan
July 2025
10 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Amazing location! Close to the ferry, multiple hikes and short drive to Nelson. Very clean sites and powered washroom with flush towels. Hosts were friendly and welcoming. Having water access right there is an added bonus.
See more
C
Craig
June 2025
Tent
With pets
Our stay at the Wild Turkey Nest was one of the highlights of our journey on the Selkirk Loop. The campsite was spacious and had everything we could need, and the host was welcoming and informative. Our evening sitting in the old barn watching the sun set on the mountains was amazing. Would definitely stay here again!
See more
Wheelchair-accessible camping near Ainsworth Hot Springs guide
Where to go
Nelson
With 350 restored heritage buildings and a historic streetcar that’s still in operation, Nelson has a small-town feel with the amenities of a metropolitan area. It sits 45-minutes south of Ainsworth on the western arm of Kootenay Lake. From the snow-capped Selkirk Mountains to the lake views, Nelson has natural splendor from every angle. Many camping accommodations are available, including tent camping, RV campsites, and glamping in cedar wood cabins. The hilly mountain terrain provides epic skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in winter. Hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and fishing are popular activities in the summertime.
Nakusp
The town of Nakusp is a remote area beside Arrow Lake, roughly an hour and a half from Ainsworth. The three local hot springs—Nakusp Hot Springs, Halcyon Hot Springs, and Halfway Hot Springs—are surrounded by more than 15 kilometres of hiking trails. Mountain biking is a hit in the summertime while the winter snow creates the perfect playground for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Tent camping, RV campsites, and chalet cabin rentals are available near the Halfway Hot Springs.
Howser Recreation Site
Nestled beside Duncan Lake (an hour north of Ainsworth), the Howser Recreation Site has a boat launch, covered picnic tables, and excellent fishing. RV and tent campsites are available, but they’re on a first-come, first-serve basis, so no reservations are needed. Get there early in the morning to snag a campsite with a lake view or one close to the pit toilets to make life more convenient. The Glayco Beach day-use area is just down the road with rock and sand beaches.
When to go
Ainsworth has distinct seasons with perfect weather for outdoor activities year-round. Summertime heat runs from July until the end of August with temperatures up to 26°C. Snowfall is common from December until February, with a peak in January. Typically, Ainsworth doesn’t get colder than -5°C in winter, which allows for outdoor sports and activities without frostbite. Spring, from March until June, brings lots of rain in the area, but some campsites are equipped with concrete pads.