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Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park

The best camping in Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park, BC

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Stories from the community

Josh

1 week ago

With pets

2 nights at The Fairy House

Super lovely cozy little cabin! We loved our stay here! The hot tub is something else, worth the price of admission itself, and our dog loved the room for adventure. We’ll definitely be back!

The tiny house and your parking spot amongst the trees!

melody

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Best West Kootenay Tiny House

We had a great time! Phil was a great host and we’ll definitely be coming back again! Loved the old boat heater in the house, did well at keeping us warm! Definitely recommend to anybody looking for a place to stay out in the kootenays!

Fredrika

October 2025

23 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Rancho Relaxo

Monique has a wonderful property and was so hospitable. She gave us a safe and comfortable place to rest our heads after a long day of travel, and even had a fire ready for us. Our favorite parts of the stay was getting to see so many stars, and wake up to an unbeatable view of Osoyoos. Thank you so much Monique!

Ashley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Fairy House

We had a wonderful thanksgiving weekend at the fairy house. The weather wasn’t the greatest but we prepared for it. My boy Reggie had the best time being a dog, roaming and living his best life. This place has everything you need! Thank you so much for the hospitality, everything was perfect!

Alianna

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at The Fairy House

Do you want to get off grid but are too lazy to pack all the things necessary to do so? Look no further! The Fairy House has everything you need to cook delicious meals (plates, forks, cooking utensils, pots, bbq grill with side burner), stay warm (hot tub, instant hot water shower, and wood stove in the house), explore outdoors with your dog companion/s (lots of land with cool mushrooms growing everywhere). We booked The Fairy House last minute and were so stoked to find it fitting our every need: time to disconnect, stars, forest walks, and hot tub time. We have been to Salmo before and love the area. Went to Nelson, hiked near Ainsworth and then sat in the hot springs. Kootenay Lake is always beautiful too, and grabbed some delicious food in Nelson on our last night. I don’t want to miss the absolute beauty of the craftsmanship that is this little house, bathhouse, and outhouse. Seriously, bravo! Thank you for sharing it with others and we hope to come back again.

S'eye

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Fairy House

Wow! What an incredible experience, you can really feel the pure energy and love that went into creating this place. This was exactly the whimsical getaway that we were looking for! I it was so nice being able to have our dog roam the properly off leash, and the cedar hottub and outdoor shower was absolutely amazing! We can't wait to come back in the winter and experience the beauty and cozy vibes again. 😊

When there's no fire ban, this is the perfect place to gather around a fire in the evenings!

Christin

September 2025

1 night at The Fairy House

When you drive in and see the bath house and then the cabin, it really feels like you’ve arrived at a Fairy House! ✨ You’re surrounded by beautiful forest, and the fairy lights strung around create such a magical vibe. Even though it was a hot day, the cabin stayed super cool inside, which felt amazing. Everything was sparkling clean, and the towels were soft and smelled wonderful :D We had a lovely, peaceful time at the cabin. It is so quiet there, and you also have a lot of privacy. The next morning we went to Rosebud Lake for a refreshing swim, and on the way out we stopped at the cute little store and visited the goats across the street. Thanks for the lovely getaway! We would definitely come back!

Doug

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Arosa Ranch

Great place to stay easy going hosts and beautiful property. Definitely recommend.

Christin

September 2025

1 night at Best West Kootenay Tiny House

Phil's tiny house is a super cute spot and we really enjoyed our time there. He is a super friendly, easy-going host and welcomed us in person when we arrived. He gave us a tour of the property and showed us everything we needed to know about the cabin, like how the solar power systems works and how to turn on the lights. I really enjoyed chatting with Phil and hearing about how he developed his land. The tiny house is rustic but we had everything we needed. It's set in a beautiful forest and at sunset, the sun shines through the trees which had a very magical vibe ✨ It is suuuper quiet there, both at Phil's property and also at Rosebud Lake which we explored the next morning thanks to Phil's kind offer to let us use his canoe which he even drove to the lake for us and picked it up 2 hours later. If you're looking for peace and quiet, this is the right place for you!

Kelly

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Fairy House

We enjoyed the hand crafted unique cabin in the woods. Our dogs loved to explore the property and had lots of space to run around. The wood operated hot tub was a unique bonus with lots of wood available and a new experience that I would highly recommend. The quiet and off the grid property was very relaxing and would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys nature and a little getaway!

Starr

September 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

We had such an amazing stay on Robert’s property! Exactly as described - private, lots of trees and a short walk to the river. We enjoyed the beach areas and swimming with the dog in the nearby swimming hole. You can tell the owners take pride in the place as everything is very well maintained and marked off. We would definitely return and recommend to others!

Sara

August 2025

28 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Sky Camping

We took our RV up to Big Sky to try out this spot for 2 nights. It was great! Private and beautiful views. The first day there all of the spots were full (there are only 6 spots) but we had the campground to ourselves the entire next day. We swam, hiked around and relaxed in the sunshine. Our pups had the best day playing in the river and discovering frogs. Definitely recommend!

Seth

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Sky Camping

Decent place to over night. Very bumpy heading to the sight. Had 2 port-a-potty’s on sight that we clean but lots of spiders. The host might want to number the sights as when some other hipsters arrived they ask us what sight was where. We told them to count the picnic tables. Another pro each sight had picnic tables.

Under new management. All amenities will be the same, just different picnic tables. New pics coming soon!

Magalie

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to Big Sky Camping

It was an amazing place to wake up to. We recommend this place to everyone who is passing through and needs a beautiful place to spend the night.

Lawrence

August 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Private river getaway

The campsite was excellent, kids loved the treehouse. the beach area by the river was vey nice, you can tell the owners have put alot of work into it. Felt very private and secluded in the trees. Having a water tap right in camp was also extremely convenient.

Krysta

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

1 night at Private river getaway

Neat spot with a tree house. Robert gave us clear directions that were easy to follow, even with us arriving after dark. Thanks Robert!

Ian

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Big Sky Camping

Beautiful location, quiet and clean. Stars are gorgeous on a clear night. Bathrooms were porta potties that were clean and stocked with nice toilet paper. Decent fishing in the river. 20 minute easy drive from downtown grand forks. Flat ground for tents.

Christina

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Fairy House

Christoph's Fairy Cabin was a quiet sanctuary away from the city. The ambiance was nice and peaceful, and very private. There is a lake about a 5-minute drive down the road, which has clean and clear water and was perfect for paddleboarding. The stars at night are breathtaking and all in all it was a perfect weekend getaway.

Nicole

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Private river getaway

Great site, easy directions to follow. River was a short walk but very nice

Meghan

August 2025

15 ft campervan

3 nights at Private river getaway

Perfectly secluded. Easy trek to the water. We spent the entire day in the river and had a cozy night back under the treetops.

Top-rated campgrounds

The Fairy House

94%

(9)

76km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Salmo, BC

130 acres of lush kootenay cedar hemlock forest. A beautiful little spring fed creek flows through the property for about a kilometer which flows year round. The creek is fed by numerous small springs and streams coming out of the hillside on the property and up the mountainside. The forest is very diverse featuring many of the species found in bc as well as wildlife. Enjoy walking several kilometers of roads and paths on this private land. You will also enjoy the complete privacy and peacefulness to be found here. A few minutes up the road is rosebud lake, a hidden gem filled with turtles and other wildlife. Make sure you bring your paddle board or kayak to enjoy this special place. Salmo river and the stunning Pend Oreille reservoir also quite close.

For-rest Retreat

99%

(43)

80km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salmo, BC

We bought this property in 2008 as raw land with an old off-grid 1950's cabin on it. While the log structure was sound, the cabin needed some major renovations to be liveable. We undertook renovations, lived in it for 6 months and then moved into a yurt on a more accessible section of our property. We now run the cabin as a short term rental, have another small rental next to our house and we are using the yurt for gatherings, retreats and yoga classes! For more info, visit our website: https://for-rest.ca Learn more about this land: AVAILABLE ALL YEAR! A backcountry-style off-grid cabin in a perfect location to explore the Kootenays. THIS CABIN IS ACCESSED BY A 0.7 KM HIKING TRAIL ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. Enjoy privacy and be close to nature at the base of Keystone Mountain. Far enough to feel like you are away from it all, close enough to experience all the Kootenays have to offer. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We have firewood available to purchase - please add this as an extra at the time of booking. Close to world-class ski hills and backcountry skiing, excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities and even private trails right out your door. Enormous snowy peaks, clear lakes, and waterfalls characterize this mountain playground in southeastern British Columbia, where visitors can expect backcountry adventures, endless singletrack mountain bike trails, hiking trails, mineral hot springs, and small towns with vibrant arts and culture scenes. Our property is located just outside of Salmo, in the Hub of the Kootenays. 30 minutes from Nelson, Castlegar, Trail, Kootenay Pass, and Champion Lakes.

Best West Kootenay Tiny House

100%

(13)

76km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Salmo, BC

YOUR CEDAR SANCTUARY AWAITS Escape to your own private retreat - a beautifully crafted off-grid tiny house where digital detox meets rustic comfort. Nestled among towering cedars and hemlock, this is where busy minds find peace and adventure-seekers find their basecamp. THE LAKE EXPERIENCE Just a peaceful 2.5km walk (or quick drive) to Rosebud Lake - a pristine, spring-fed gem that's refreshingly warm and perfect for swimming. This motor-free lake is home to hundreds of friendly turtles and giant dragonflies that keep the mosquitos at bay. Bring your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for the ultimate serenity. There is one community boat launch for the lake which naturally is a popular spot. It's understood by the locals to Salmo that this is a shared and friendly access point. ADVENTURE CENTRAL Your tiny house sits at the heart of incredible year-round recreation: • Summer: Hiking, fishing, canoeing, jet boating on three major rivers (Pend Oreille, Columbia, Kootenay) • Winter: Backcountry and downhill skiing, snowmobiling • Always: Peaceful lake moments and forest walks LOCATION PERKS: Central to Salmo, Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson, with easy access from Spokane and Creston. The charming Rosebud Mercantile is just a gentle walk away for local eggs, local author books, and simple refreshments. YOUR COZY RETREAT This new-construction tiny house features: • Warmth: Classic Dickenson Marine propane heater (perfect for two) • Comfort: Twin futon plus extra single mattress for larger parties • Outdoor kitchen: Propane BBQ and two-burner stove • Privacy: Completely secluded among the trees • Essentials: Well water provided, traditional outdoor facilities What to bring: Your own bedding, flashlight, hand towels and towels for swimming, your favourite camp cooking essentials (i.e. some basics are in play) cooler & ice, and a sense of adventure! This is authentic off-grid living with thoughtful comfort touches. Hot showers available by request ($5 propane, cash) - or take that refreshing lake dip! BONUS: GAZEBO SITE AVAILABLE For larger groups, check out our gazebo site with perfect sunrise and sunset views. AND COMING SOON: Bicycles!! I just have to fix them up :) Ready to unplug and recharge? Your cedar sanctuary is waiting.

Private river getaway

94%

(31)

80km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Salmo, BC

Once this property was a cattle ranch but now it's a private spot nestled right next to the Salmo river.Learn more about this land:Private camping spot and small tree fort down by the Salmo River. We have room for a 35ft camper, you will be parking on grass but the site requires levelling.We are located in Salmo, BC which is 30 minutes south of Nelson, BC. Nelson is surrounded by the rugged Selkirk Mountains and sits on the shores of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. Whether gliding through the incredible powder at Whitewater Ski Resort, rafting down class 4 rapids on the Salmo River, catching a twenty-five-pound rainbow trout on Kootenay Lake, hiking up to Kokanee Glacier, or watching the fabulous live performances at The Capitol Theatre, the area has attractions for everyone.Only a 5-minute drive to the local grocery store.Access to the mountains from the old railroad system directly off of the property by motorcycles and/or side by sides, you just need to go slow until you clear the houses.Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome.We look forward to hosting you.

Rancho Relaxo

100%

(2)

75km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Osoyoos, BC

Rancho Relaxo: Serene Hillside Retreat Overlooking Osoyoos Lake Step away from it all and into tranquility at Rancho Relaxo, perched on 3 peaceful acres on Anarchist Mountain, just 12 minutes from Osoyoos. With sweeping mountain and lake views, this quiet, private setting is the ideal escape for nature lovers, couples, small families, or anyone seeking a break from the bustle. What to Expect • One RV/tent site that sleeps up to 4, accommodating vehicles under 11 m in length • Fire pit with seating (available unless a fire ban is in effect) • Potable water on site • Electrical and water hookups • Pets welcome (check with host for details) • No toilets or built-in restroom facilities Why You’ll Love It Relax in a setting where the only interruptions are birdsong and soft breezes. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee as fog lifts over the lake or unwinding by the fire at sunset, Rancho Relaxo offers privacy, open skies, and a deep connection to nature. Nearby Highlights • Explore Osoyoos and local wineries • Hike local trails with panoramic viewpoints • Visit the lake for swimming, paddling, or lakeside picnics • Enjoy light stargazing thanks to minimal light pollution Plan Ahead No camp toilets are available onsite, so come prepared. Check for local fire bans before planning a campfire. The host provides potable water, but be self-sufficient for other needs. Rates From CA$16/night (for up to 4 guests)

Big Sky Camping

94%

(91)

20km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Grand Forks, BC

Big sky campground is located on the banks of the Granby River on the edge of a hayfield on an active hay producing farm. Relax at the edge of the field and camp along the Granby River where you can swim, or fish in the various pools or main stream of the peaceful river. Enjoy all the area has to offer such as dirt biking, quadding or cycling on the rail trail, riding through tunnels or even looking for old gold mines along the way! If bird watching is your thing then enjoy seeing many different types of birds along the riverbanks and in the grassy meadows. The town of Grand Forks is less than a 15 min drive away and has all the amenities you need, including an amazing farmers market, many coffee shops and stores, and the historic Gem theatre. Christina Lake is also just a 30 min drive, with a beautiful, calm lake and delicious ice cream. Also, for folks who are interested, we offer hay farm tours- available upon request 😊

Pristine Off Grid Paradise

100%

(2)

73km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · BC

A stunning 320 acre off grid Ranch in the beautiful West Kootenay's near the Nelway Border Crossing. Our plan for the land is to be able to provide sanctuary, rest, education and empowerment to like minded individuals. With the stresses of modern day society we feel it is so important to be able to get away for mental health breaks, to reconnect with your inner longings for rest, community, nutrition & a true connection to nature. With no cell phone service, limited wifi, surrounded by nature we feel this is the place where you can go to "free your mind and feed your soul." With Air b n' b and Hipcamp rentals coming summer of 2024 you will be able to immerse yourself deeply in nature. The land boasts a stunning array of wildlife, bird watching, our farm animals, hiking, forest bathing, walking trails, wild flower picking and with being off grid and no lights you will not believe the epic star gazing! Nestled in the forest by the lake your accommodations are comfortable, restful and offer stunning views of the lake and all the animals that come to visit it. This is a true off grid working farm. Book a guided tour of our regenerative farm and meet all the animals!

Riverfront Desert Camp

97%

(31)

80km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents · Beaverdell, BC

The Story of Smoker Road: Smoker Road is a beautiful 5-acre property highlighting some of Boundary Country’s best-kept secrets. Nestled between towering Ponderosa pines, along the West Kettle River - this property offers serene tranquillity with nature right outside your tent. The Petcoff family is tight-knit. They love nature, adventure, and laughter. They acquired Smoker Road in 2017 with the mutual dream of sharing their passions with like-minded people. There are 5 campsites available throughout the property for tent campers: We also have complimentary amenities such as: - toilet amenities - table (upon request) *We have firewood available for purchase. $10/crate that provides enough kindling, starter wood, and logs for a great fire. (bring cash!) Our site manager, Pete, can tell you all about the area, the birds and wildlife. He offers guided hikes upon request for any level beginner to intermediate. Hike rates are by donation. The river is absolutely perfect for a summer dip on a HOT Okanagan day with a secret beach a short walk away. They have created a fun, and safe environment for everyone to feel welcome! Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, while feeling inspired, and at peace. Smoker Road is pet-friendly!

Bear Road Retreat

100%

(4)

76km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · BC

Area of open grass, orchard and wooded hills on a property centrally located to all types of sports and activities. 2 km from US border. Multi sport non motorized lake 2 kms away. Multi sport river/reservoir for boating and fishing, beach activity 8km away. Kilometres of hiking and biking trails nearby.

Song Bird Ranch

100%

(2)

62km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Osoyoos, BC

Song Bird Ranch is a premier destination for bird watchers, with over 65 species of birds catalogued. Deer frolic in the grasslands during the summer season, great for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.The location of our property allows guests to enjoy the best of both the Okanagan Valley and the Boundary Country. We are located just 35 minutes from the beautiful beaches and vineyards of Osoyoos, 20 minutes from the beautiful Kettle River and 10 minutes from Mt Baldy Ski Hill. When guests are seeking to soak up nature and wildlife, you won't need to leave the property. The seventy-five-acres, include, pine and larch forests, wetlands and trembling aspen groves. Trails wind through the different areas allowing for photo opportunities. You are welcome to say hello to our horses, our chickens and our sweet golden retriever. We are happy to have canine guests; however, for the safety of our resident pets, we require prior approval. The property has many resident squirrels and chipmunks. Other wildlife, such as Whitetailed deer and moose pass through regularly. Occasionally a bobcat, lynx, bear or elk venture through.

ARLO's KVR Trail Riverside Camping

92%

(24)

76km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaverdell, BC

Welcome to a natural, convenient location with basic amenities on the West Kettle River! We have 300 acres including 1500 meters of river frontage with access to the surrounding crown land and KVR trail which runs through the property. We recommend arriving before dark so that you aren't complaining in a review how hard sites are to find at night, in the dark. Some sites may be overgrown generally a lawn mower is provided for your use. If you are looking for fully serviced campsites where the outhouse is closer than 250m, then you should just carry on! The KVR trail is the access to the property. From HWY 33 South, take the turn (West) onto Tuzo Main Road (about 7km's south of Beaverdell), then cross the wooden bridge over the Kettle River and take the first left onto the KVR trail (a long, straight flat gravel road) and follow for 1900meters. Mostly wide enough for one way traffic only, so please be patient and mindful of trail users on bikes, quads and vehicles. After driving down the KVR right of way about 1.2km, you will arrive at the farmhouse gates - there you will see a little sign for the campground on the tree, so keep going down the right away. Once you go another 600m or so, you will come to a homemade sign with an arrow pointing you left. Turn there and then make a quick right turn then follow the road. You will come to the large tree with a picnic table and two blue barrels marking site #10. Sites 1, 2, 3 ,4 are over at the river, the other RV sites 5, 6, 7, 8, can be any where around site 10 or in the loop. I can always bring the lawner mower over to cut the grass and weeds down just get a hold of me. We currently have 5 tent only sites on the river and 25 RV/Tent sites currently about 100m from the river. There are currently picnic tables with blue umbrellas for sites 1, 3, 4, 10. There is a small white table and chairs for site 2. RV's sites include sites #4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 - I can add many more RV sites. Just need to cut the grass/weeds. Fishing, hiking, exploring, bring your quads, dirt bikes. There's plenty of roads and trails ... Even a secret honey hole fishing spot not far away but that's hush hush only locals know about this gem. A camper told me recently he saw a massive fish (16+ inches), likely a rainbow in the Kettle.

Owl Mountain Ranch

100%

(1)

6.3km from Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Christina Lake, BC

Owl Mountain Ranch is situated on the Canadian/Washington border (on the Canadian side) just 6 km’s southwest of the charming townsite of Christina Lake and 21 km’s east of the small city of Grand Forks B.C. The property boasts several acres of green, shady and peaceful space to either tent or park your RV. We also have about 4 km’s of trails to explore around the property. The view of Owl Mountain is our stunning center piece, along with a beautiful perennial garden and a U-pick self serve vegetable garden where you will find all kinds of fresh and delicious vegetables. We have two 30 amp services which can accommodate large units as well as 4-6 shaded spacious tenting sites. There is a kitchen cabin outfitted with potable cold running water, fridge/freezer and microwave which is for everyone to use, a clean maintained pit toilet, and a hot water on demand outdoor shower. We allow pets but they must be on a leash at all times as we have 2 large resident dogs and free ranging chickens. This peaceful place is just good for the soul!

The best camping in Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park, BC guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through the rolling hills and open skies of Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park. Traverse the network of trails that beckon hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts alike. While the park does not offer campgrounds, its vast landscapes are ripe for day-time explorations, where every path leads to a new discovery.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Gilpin Grasslands Provincial Park is during the warmer months, from late May to early September, when the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities. Winter can be harsh, with heavy snowfall limiting access to the park's features.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any seasonal closures or alerts before planning your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as terrain can vary throughout the park.
Be mindful of local wildlife; keep a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Remember to carry out all trash, as the park operates on a 'leave no trace' principle.
Cellular service may be limited, so plan accordingly and inform someone of your itinerary.

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