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Kokanee Creek Provincial Park

The best camping in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, BC

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

The tiny house and your parking spot amongst the trees!

melody

November 2025

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!

Verna

October 2025

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

Very continent spot to park, stayed 2 nights. Enjoyed the hot springs and the spa, took a drive to the cute village of Kaslo.

Arie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

The cute little ferry was awesome, and the directions to John and Michelle's were straightforward. We got to nest in a bunch of trees and enjoy the lake and kayaking available. We visited too late in the season to fully take advantage of all the fun stuff to do, so we'll be back in the warmer months!

Lexy

September 2025

2 nights at Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

I can’t wait to come back! John and Michelle have created a lovely and thoughtful way to share their piece of Kootenay paradise. The micro cabin has everything I needed and I’ve never slept so well - incredibly quiet with stunning mountain vistas (and the view from the outdoor shower is top notch). Appreciated having the camp stove and propane, hot showers, clean ‘drop’ toilets, towels, wash station with soap and sponge right outside the cabin, bedding, and of course, Boss the friendly dog. I think I saw every star in the galaxy after dark. The adorable (easy and quick) ferry across to their property was icing on the cake.

Dawn and Fred

September 2025

24 ft travel trailer

1 night at Laid Back Manor Farm

Beautiful, peaceful site right beside the river where the red Kokanee were flipping in the water. Easy access with our 24ft trailer. Thanks Jason!

Lots of space to sit outside and enjoy nature.

Christin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Woodsy, Artsy Nature Retreat

We had such a lovely time! To be honest, we were positively surprised by how nice the cabin was! We had everything we needed and more! The bed was comfy, the kitchen well equipped, everything was very clean and tidy. We enjoyed our dinner on the deck and imagined what the view would be like, if it hadn't been so smoky :D Maria is a great host! Her communication before and during our stay was fantastic and when we met her before we checked out, she gave us a tour of the property and showed us the other cabins, which are all super nice! We would love to come back!

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!

Kenjiro

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

This campsite is truly a hidden gem. The setting is serene, with spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere. After a long day of hiking, the hot shower was such a welcome comfort and made the stay even more enjoyable. John and Michelle are welcoming, and ensures you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. The campsite is well-maintained and thoughtfully set up, which adds to the overall relaxing experience. I would highly recommend this place and will definitely return.

Eric

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

We enjoyed staying on Kait's land. They were very accommodating and we're able to upgrade us to a site where we could park next to our camp. Beach and dock were great! Enjoyed swimming and hanging out on the dock.

Mike

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

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!

beautifully handcrafted picnic tables at each site

Hiromi

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

Camp site was nice with very clean and pleasantly decorated outhouse. Provided with hot shower and sink for washing. All made camping more comfortable. We enjoyed catching the ferry back and forth. View of the surrounding was great.

Terry

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

One of the best places we stayed throughout the hipcamp camping sites we have visited. Great place for bikers to pitch tents and use the covered kitchen, or stay in a micro cabin that includes everything you use at home. The showers are great and washrooms clean and easy to use. Peddle bikes available for biking some awesome trails there and pathways down to the lake where they also have kayaks you can paddle out on the lake. We really wish we could have stayed longer because John and Michelle were so accomodating and inviting. We can't wait to go back with our RV and tour the many lakes with our ebikes. I also notice great tenting spots with hammocks deep in the wooded trees, so cool. Definitely booking for next year.

Paula

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Soul's Paradise Resort

We really liked the place, quiet, friendly, the view is beautiful, we enjoyed the camping stay with family and friends. Thank you 💯 x 💯 recommended.

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!

J. Clemente

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

Amazing place to go and camp. John and Michelle are great hosts. The amenities are great! We will go back

Nikolay

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

A very good location and welcome atmosphere by the hosts. There are amenities on the premises and some gear for playing sports. Kayaking and swimming in the lake is possible. Very much recommended.

Antoine

August 2025

Tent

With kids

8 nights at Soul's Paradise Resort

From Calgary, Alberta, we stayed a week, and seemed to be like few days, incredible spot, incredible owners, incredible week! This is such a great camping site and I am almost reluctant of saying too much here as I don’t want this place to be crowded for the next times :) I cannot recommend more enough this camping, family oriented or nature lover or both, this is where you have to be.

janai

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

29 nights at Cedar Creek Farm

Gary is a wonderful host and we'd be happy to stay again anytime!!

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.

Diane

August 2025

19 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Soul's Paradise Resort

Lovely location right near the Kootenay Bay ferry. Would love to return in the future.

Top-rated campgrounds near Kokanee Creek Provincial Park

The Watershed Campground Balfour BC

97%

(15)

9.7km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 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)

Soul's Paradise Resort

96%

(13)

20km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Soul's Paradise is a beautiful campground in Kootenay Bay with 20 beach sites (open 6 months/year) 13 upper sites (year-around) and 2 Chalets. Family and gentle pet friendly. We offer long-term RV and tiny-home sites for 6+ months. We welcome you to be a part of our community or enjoy a scenic vacation! We have kayaks, canoes, pedal boards to rent in the summer, fresh eggs, and garden produce. Relax and breathe!

Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

90%

(10)

22km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 1 site · RV

Lot located on beautiful Kootenay Lake, just steps from the renowned Ainsworth Hot Springs mineral pools. Directly across from beach, 5 minutes to boat launch, pub and restaurant. Enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs, swim in the pristine Kootenay Lake, take in the spectacular view of the towering Selkirk Mountains. Experience authentic Indigenous cuisine in the Ktunaxa Restaurant located at the Ainsworth Hot Springs resort. * Beside historic J.B. Fletcher Store - museum/artisan gallery * 5 min. to Cody Caves - ancient limestone caverns * 15 min. to Balfour Golf Course * 20 min. to Kokanee Park and Glacier - hiking, zipline, playground * 30 min. to beautiful city of Nelson - RVs, 5th wheels, camper vans, tent trailers (self-contained only, 5 min. to sani-dump) - creek water - 50 amp. with 30 amp adaper, wifi - shelter for boat, ATV, bikes, etc. (boat in photo to be removed) Daily, weekly or ask about long term stay. $50/day. See Ainsworth Hot Springs website for information and pool hours: https://www.ainsworthhotsprings.com/ See map in photos for exact location.

Retreat Yourself!

100%

(11)

24km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging

I bought this magical property 13 years ago and I have developed it from beach to mountain with the idea of sharing it with epic humans since day 1. It is 1 acre of pure natural and artistic bliss. The natural wonders include a massive beach with space for many, a gigantic sling shot, sweet fire pits, comfortable lawn chairs, paddle boards, kayaks, a cedar strip canoe, and many other toys free for you to explore. Please note that the Beach house guests have priority of the Gazebo but there are many spots/tables and parasols set up to enjoy all other spots on the beach. My property has 2 rentals on it, the other is right on the beach called "Sweet beach house-edge of the water", in case you wanted to book both locations. There are also a couple of sites for extra guests to pitch a tent on for a fee. Its like jurassic park here...very tropical and chill. The artful camper boasts of an outdoor spa and deck, BBQ, mini fridge, fantastic lake and mountain views and access to the beach from 9am-8pm. The other rental a.k.a. The beach-house comes with an attached outdoor 1950's style kitchen, oudoor on demand shower, outhouse, fire pits, lawn chairs, and free use of water vessels. It is located steps from the water. Truly magical.

For-rest Retreat

99%

(43)

44km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Private river getaway

94%

(31)

45km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Blacktail Ridge

100%

(20)

62km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 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.

Best West Kootenay Tiny House

100%

(13)

66km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging

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.

Laid Back Manor Farm

95%

(29)

69km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 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!!

Kootenay born camping by Arrow lake

99%

(81)

80km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Short-Term Rental Registration# H503 685 174 Welcome to kootenay Born Camping. Enjoy spectacular mountain views with the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Arrow lake. We are just across the lake and are accessed by the first electric shuttle ferry service in BC. If you are looking to escape the crowded tourist areas but want to feel safe and comfortable, then this is your place. We are surrounded by hiking, biking and ATV trails waiting to be explored. We offer complimentary kayaks and bicycles to explore the beauty that surrounds us. A few miles down the road is Saddle mountain hiking trail, a challenging hike with breathtaking views all the way up. At the top of Saddle Mountain is a look out building with 360 panoramic views that is free to use. A short walk or bike ride from the camp site, through old growth cedar groves and orchard will lead you to Arrow Lake where you can enjoy all types of water activities or take a walk to explore many of the areas private beaches. Grab a kayak or SUP board and explore our many secluded, sandy beach spots. Come and enjoy our beautiful wilderness, It's a whole other world over here.....

The Kootenay Cottage, Pet Friendly

5.2km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 2 sites · Lodging

This fully furnished and fully equipped cottage is super cozy for a single person or couple. Always pet friendly and no pet or cleaning fee! The cottage offers a memory/gel queen bed with 100% cotton sheets, down pillows, down comforter and 100% cotton towels. The space includes a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, microwave, toaster, blender, Keurig, French press, plates, glasses, silverware, stainless steel pots and pans. Just bring your groceries and pet food! Wifi, 1 1/2 gig. The cottage is next to the West Arm Provincial Park, hiking and biking trails are all pet-friendly! A short walk to Kootenay Lake and a 5-minute drive to the beach (pet friendly). The cottage is close to Balfour, Nelson, Ainsworth Hot Springs, Kokanee Creek Provincial Park and spawning channels, Old Growth Forest and the Kokanee Glacier. 2024-weekly only, Saturday to Saturday. Please contact to confirm availability. 2025-weekly only, Friday to Friday, May through September 2025 We look forward to hosting you!

Woodsy, Artsy Nature Retreat

100%

(7)

19km from Kokanee Creek Provincial Park · 3 sites · Lodging

Escape to Morningstar Log Cabin and Bunkieland, where three distinctive glamping accommodations await, each offering a unique experience of nature's embrace. Perfect for family reunions, intimate weddings, or a memorable friends' getaway, our cabins provide spectacular, panoramic views of emerald-green Kootenay Lake and the charming city of Nelson from the peaceful forest's edge, all just 5 minutes from the vibrant city core. Immerse yourself in the landscape and wildlife with bird watching, hiking, and biking trails right at your doorstep. Nearby, indulge in kayaking, skiing, fishing, and countless other adventures that the renowned mountain ranges and 200 km of pristine lakeshore offer throughout four distinct seasons. Delight in the region's bounty with local produce-driven dining, explore craft breweries, all reflecting our area's commitment to organic farming and sustainable living. Our cabins, each thoughtfully appointed with a comfortable queen bed and a convenient double pull-out, are uniquely furnished with handcrafted pieces from local artisans, creating a cozy and rustic retreat. Morning Star Log Cabin welcomes guests year-round, while Bunkieland offers its seasonal charm from May to October, providing a true glamping experience. Enjoy the tranquility of a remote escape while remaining conveniently close to civilization. Whether you're a timid nature lover or an adventurous spirit, you'll discover endless activities and relaxation, easily filling a fulfilling week's stay. Let the beauty of the Kootenays rejuvenate your soul at Morning Star Log Cabin and Bunkieland. Plus, bring your furry friends along to enjoy the adventure too! We're pet-friendly and understand that your dogs are part of the family. Explore the trails together, let them splash in the lake, and enjoy evenings by the fire. Our location is ideal for those seeking an active getaway with their canine companions, making your stay even more special.

The best camping in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, BC guide

Overview

About

Curling out of the Selkirk Mountains, serpentine Kokanee Creek rolls into the West Arm of Kootenay Lake through a sandy delta with beaches all around. You might be tempted to spend all your time soaking up the sun while taking in a view of green ridges descending to the blue lake, but there’s plenty more to do. Canoe, kayak, or paddleboard on the water, spot fish in the spawning channel, or hike 9.5 kilometres of trails—Canyon Trail traces the curves of the creek, providing amazing views over the gorge. Then stay up late for the interpretive staff’s stargazing program.

Notable campgrounds

For beach bums: Redfish Campground is very close to Redfish Beach, just a minute or two away on foot.
For water bugs: Friends Campground is right next to the water sport rental shop.

Tips for snagging a campsite

While this park’s relatively remote location is advantageous—further from large population centres and the crowds that they bring—Kokanee Creek still gets busy in the middle of summer, especially around Canada Day, Labour Day, and the long weekend in August. Campsites closer to the beach tend to be the most popular.
Reservations can be made up to two months in advance, and, when reservations aren’t available, all campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re planning to just show up, make sure to do so before the 1pm checkout time for the best selection.

When to go

While the park is open (with facilities) from April to October, some campgrounds only operate during the warmer months (Osprey Point, for example, can only be booked from the middle of June to the beginning of September). You’ll find the biggest crowds in summer, when daytime temperatures are nice and the lake warms for swimming. If planning to camp in May or September, make sure to pack a good, warm sleeping bag, as average lows dip down a bit. Salmon spawning takes place in the channel from August to October.

Know before you go

When you go for a paddle, be prepared for anything, as the winds, waves, and weather can shift rapidly.
Firewood can be purchased at the park (but you’re welcome to bring your own, too).
You can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard onsite.
If you’re heading to the beach, be aware that there are no lifeguards.

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