The best camping near White Lake Provincial Park

An excellent park for rainbow trout fishing, White Lake Provincial Park is frequented by anglers and flyfishers. The resident western painted turtles (the only native pond turtle left in BC) are also popular highlights typically found in shallow waters. Visitors also come for canoeing, birding, swimming, and boating, and stay in the undeveloped White Lake Campground, best suited for self-contained campers.

• Best for peace-seekers: Woodlilly is the most secluded option.
• Best for accessibility: Moccasin Flower has barrier-free facilities.
• Best for big groups: Deer Lake has two sites, each accommodating up to 60 people.

1. White Lake Provincial Park can be very busy in the summer owing to it having boat docks and being a popular fishing spot. As always, it’s best to book in advance to guarantee your spot (especially if you want a lakefront campsite).
2. You can still just show up and hope for the best, as there may be a few open spots (or cancellations), but calling or going online to book before arrival is your best bet.

White Lake Provincial Park is only open from late-May to late-September, but these are the best times to visit anyway. You’ll benefit most from lake activities from late July onwards, as before that the water can be chilly. The park will be at its busiest in July and August, especially around Canada Day (July 1), but by the second week of September, there will be way fewer campers, making this a secluded haven for those who like peace and quiet. 

• You can pick up supplies such as ice, firewood, and cold drinks at the park gatehouse. You can also rent canoes and bikes there. 
• There’s no potable water at the park. You’ll need to boil the water before using it to eat, drink, or brush your teeth.
• Cell reception at this park ranges from patchy to non-existent.
• The mosquitoes here can be brutal. Be sure to pick up extra-strength bug spray before setting up camp. 
•  The nearest town, White River, has an annual Winnie-the-Pooh festival in mid-August. The bear cub that inspired the stories was caught there.