The best camping in McDonald Creek Provincial Park, BC

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The best camping in McDonald Creek Provincial Park, BC

Kootenay Born retreat by Arrow lake

1. Kootenay Born retreat by Arrow lake

99%
(81)
8.3km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Short-Term Rental Registration# H503 685 174 Welcome to kootenay Born Camping and retreat. Enjoy spectacular mountain views and the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Arrow lakes. 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 for the solitude of the natural world 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. A few miles down the road is Saddle mountain hiking trail, a challenging trek with breathtaking views the entire way. At the top of Saddle Mountain is a look out cabin with 360 panoramic views. A short walk or bike ride from the camp 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 stroll to explore the lakeshore. 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.....
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$30
 / night
Laid Back Manor Farm

2. Laid Back Manor Farm

95%
(29)
61km from McDonald 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!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$36
 / night
Bear Spring Glamping

3. Bear Spring Glamping

98%
(48)
77km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 19 sites
Connect to Nature in Comfort We make enjoying the outdoors easy! Make lasting memories with a hassle free glamping getaway with us. Don't worry about packing anything but yourself. We've got you covered with a fully equipped camp kitchen, towels, games, a forest to explore and meal kits ready when you arrive. At Bear Spring, 'retreat' means to withdraw into nature and reconnect with the natural world. If you're looking for an outdoor experience that you can enjoy with all comforts of home, this is the place. Choose from one of 8 walk-in glamping sites nestled in the Selkirk Mountains with stunning views of the Kootenay River below. It's a short 2 minute walk up to your furnished canvas tent. Gaze at stars from the comfort of bed. Fall asleep to the soothing sound of crickets with gentle breezes caressing your face. Wake up to the sweet fragrance of cedar forests, enjoy a leisurely cup of fresh ground coffee onsite and taste food picked fresh from the guest gardens. Accommodations are based on double occupancy (two adults). Stargazer tents sleep two in a cozy pillow top queen bed or two twin beds (tent 3) and feature natural cotton bedding, skylights, ottoman, dresser, chair with desk and solar lighting. Belle tents sleep two in twin beds including bedding and side table. Sleeping mats for children available upon request for $5 each. You may reserve up to two mats per tent for a small fee. You will, however, need to bring sleeping bags and pillows for children. Fully equipped camp kitchen, communal fire pit area, hot shower and flushing toilets only steps away. Sleeping outside just not for you? Book our three bedroom guest suite, also located on the property
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$135
 / night
Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

4. Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C, RV site

90%
(10)
79km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 1 site
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
CA$50
 / night
Caribou Creek Market Gardens

5. Caribou Creek Market Gardens

100%
(4)
19km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private & secluded camping site with lots of sun and nature all around. See and listen to the year-round creek. Lake and boat launch very close with great fishing (Dolly Varden, Rainbow, Burton, and Kokanee Salmon). The camping site itself is approx .5 acre. Only one spot available is perfect for you want privacy. Must be fully self-contained. RV or tent. RV can be huge. Pop-outs no problem. Your dogs are fine. issue. Mine will leave you in peace.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$45
 / night
McCormack Farm

6. McCormack Farm

100%
(5)
19km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the hills above the Columbia River and Arrows Lakes our guests can experience the serenity of the Kootenays on our family's Century Farm. Join us as we journey down the path of regenerative agro-forestry and silvopasture. Immerse yourself in our unique and vibrant farm with our small herd of cattle, flock of heritage breed poultry, and our extensive berry and fruit u-pick. Located 2 minutes from the beach, access to 3 major drainages for all kinds of outdoor adventure. 30 minutes to Nakusp and its fabled hotsprings.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$30
 / night
Camp Lavender on the Arrow Lake

7. Camp Lavender on the Arrow Lake

34km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private Camping under starry skies, a few feet from your own Lavender Field. 3 minute walk or drive to Semi-Private Beach on the Arrow Lake for a Picnic, Paddleboard, Jet Ski and Swim. Cycle quiet Roads to the town of Fauquier and Forest Service Roads. Golf at the Executive Golf Course at the end of the Road. Visit three nearby Hot Springs near Nakusp. Bring a boat and park on the property, boat launch is 3 minutes away, fish the returning Sockeye Salmon near Burton Flats. Explore old town sites at Burton historic site and enjoy food and outdoor picnics at the Burton City Cidery. Fire Pit, Table and Seating for 6. Pit Toilet On site. Maximum of one RV up to 20 feet only. Parking for a Recreational vehicle, Boat, ATV and Jet ski is extra at $25 per day per vehicle. One RV Site with power add $20.00 per day. Leashed controlled well behaved dogs, by permission pick up and dispose of refuse. Studio Garden House for extra guests: Fold out Bed, and room for two cots, table and microwave. $175 from April 1st to September 15. ( Book at time campsite is reserved)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$110
 / night
Perfect Puppy Ranch

8. Perfect Puppy Ranch

100%
(2)
40km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Slocan Lake and Valhalla Provincial Park is visible from the property. This is an off grid Homestead. Humble living working towards sustainability. We provide fresh potable water for drinking and washing We have three golden retrievers on the property in 45 chickens
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$15
 / night
Appledale Mountain Garden

9. Appledale Mountain Garden

100%
(1)
58km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the mountain side of the picturesque Slocan Valley we are situated on 63 acres of forest with glacier fed creeks feeding into the Slocan river in the valley bottom. A variety of accommodations are available including tenting, cabana or tipi. The land has a shared summer kitchen, wood fired sauna as well as hiking trails. 15 minute walk/bike to the river and rail trail. Wifi, Firewood & Bike Rental available for extra fee. No pets. No parties. 420 friendly. families welcome. We have chickens and dogs. 10 minutes to Slocan Lake, grocery, cell service, gas, recreational activities. 45 minutes to Nelson.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
CA$40
 / night
Cherryville Retreat

10. Cherryville Retreat

100%
(3)
58km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 1 site
Welcome to our Private Riverside Retreat in Cherryville, BC. Escape to a hidden gem nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s pristine wilderness. This fully detached guesthouse offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and privacy—ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking a peaceful getaway. Our cozy yet spacious guesthouse is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and the crystal-clear waters of the Shuswap River—one of Canada’s most untouched rivers. Pets are welcome (please inquire before bringing one).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$145
 / night
Cedar Creek Farm

11. Cedar Creek Farm

79%
(7)
62km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Best described as Heaven on Earth. Whatever outdoor adventure you enjoy, this will be an ideal home base. The mountains and waters of the Kootenays are legendary. This is also a source of legendary BC Bud. This farm has been cultivating medical cannabis since 2008 and in 2020 we received our recreational cannabis licence. Wholistic health and wellness are the values that motivate our work
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night
Creekside Glamping

12. Creekside Glamping

62km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 2 sites
A cozy creekside retreat in the Slocan Valley. There are two 16' Bell tents which are bookable individually or separate. They are nestled in a private wooded area next to the creek where you can fall asleep to the sound of the burbling water. There is a full bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and bath. A kitchen shack with propane BBQ and fully equipped with hot running water. There is a free woodstore and firepit for your evening relaxation to roast your smores. We are a 10 minute walk from 2 restaurants, gas station, organic grocery store and hardware store. Not to mention the Rail trail that follows the river for 25km in each direction. Plenty of opportunity for walks, bike rides and runs. We are 15 minutes from Slocan lake and Valhalla Provincial Park which offers stunning hiking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and just relaxing on the beach. The Slocan river boasts lots of secret bathing spots for the adventurous explorer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$85
 / night
Bear Spring Guest Suite

13. Bear Spring Guest Suite

100%
(8)
77km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 5 sites
At Bear Spring, 'retreat' means to withdraw into nature and reconnect with the natural world. If you're looking for an outdoor experience that you can enjoy with all comforts of home, this is the place. The guest suite (located in the farm house) and glamping sites are nestled in the Selkirk Mountains with stunning views of the Kootenay River below. Fall asleep to the soothing sound of crickets with gentle breezes caressing your face. Wake up to the sweet fragrance of cedar forests, enjoy a leisurely cup of fresh ground coffee onsite, taste food picked fresh from the guest gardens or explore our forest walking trails. Open year round, our guest suite, with private entrance, features three bedrooms, two bathrooms (one with soaker tub), a living area with kitchenette, private deck and BBQ. Beautifully appointed rooms are furnished with pillow top queen beds, organic cotton linens, and vintage decor. During the summer, guests have access to all the same comforts as our glamping guests. For a complete list of guest amenities check out our glamping accommodations. In winter, enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on well maintained trails right out your door. The kitchenette features a sink, mini-fridge, kettle, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, cookware, a convection toaster oven, a hot plate, and all the utensils and dishes needed to prepare and eat meals. The private deck includes a table, two chairs and a BBQ with side burner. The garden includes picnic table and umbrella are available for guest use, as is the communal fire pit area and other glamping amenities. Guests may forage in the garden when in season.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
CA$299
 / night
4D Creek Ranch

14. 4D Creek Ranch

100%
(4)
80km from McDonald Creek Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
4D Creek Ranch is a working cattle farm, with a lovely wooded area that is fenced off for camping and glamping. The camp-site area has both secluded/wooded spots and more open areas with a gorgeous valley view. Our motto is "Unplug to Reconnect". Although there is spotty cell service in the camping area, we encourage guests to unwind and take a breath and a break from all of the business of life. 4D Creek Ranch offers a serenely quiet and natural experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$41
 / night

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The best camping in McDonald Creek Provincial Park, BC guide

Overview

About

Plan a McDonald Creek Provincial Park camping expedition for a delightful mix of relaxation and outdoor fun. Nestled near the Arrow Lakes, the park offers sandy beaches, clear waters, and plenty of wildlife. The nearby Glacier National Park provides even more opportunities to marvel at the country's diverse landscapes. A camping trip near McDonald Creek Provincial Park is a perfect blend of beach and mountain enjoyment!

Nearby attractions

  • Camp amidst the untamed beauty of Valhalla Provincial Park. Its vast wilderness, sparkling Slocan Lake, and diverse wildlife create a captivating camping backdrop.

  • Experience camping near Nelson, a cultural hub nestled amongst the beautiful wilderness. After enjoying the city's vibrant arts scene, retreat to your tranquil campsite for a peaceful night's sleep.

  • Set up camp in Monashee Provincial Park, with stunning alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and spectacular mountain peaks. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and appreciating nature's grandeur.

  • Set up your tent in charming Nakusp, surrounded by the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges. Explore nearby hot springs or wander through lush, wild landscapes. A delightful camping retreat!
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