The best camping near Kamloops, British Columbia.

A First Nations word for “meeting place,” Kamloops eflects its cultural roots in ranching while also embracing newer bounties of hops and ginseng farming. The region is crisscrossed with kilometres of backcountry roads and trails that take campers deep into a wilderness that few international tourists ever see. Much of the land is high, forested plateau while valley bottoms are arid and desert-like. Kamloops is popular among RVers, owing to the somewhat flatter topography and excellent highway system. Campers staying near here have a bounty of campsite options within a two-hour drive, including no less than seven provincial parks.

Where to Go

Shuswap Highlands

Over 200 well-stocked fishing lakes dot the forested Shuswap Highlands surrounding Kamloops. There’s even a particular species known as the Kamloops trout that’s prominent in these waters. Area campgrounds are ideal for RVing, some with full hookups and dump stations or even boat launches.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

This park is ideal for waterfall lovers, with more than a few dozen accessible via park hiking trails. There’s also a nice variety of campgrounds, from lakeside spots perfect for canoeing to backcountry tent sites and group campsites.

Sun Peaks Resort Area

Affordable camping can be found at MacGillivray Lake and Heffley Lake close to Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia’s second-largest four-season resort.

When to Go

July and August are the area’s warmest months, when it’s nice to camp somewhere near fresh water. Campers visiting in spring and fall should pack a puffy, insulated parka to ward off any nighttime chill—temperature changes can be dramatic.

Know Before You Go

• Campground reservations at some provincial parks are mandatory, especially on summer weekends.
• Kamloops has all of the retail and professional services that every camper needs (Wal-Mart, Costco, Canadian Tire).
• Fire and smoking bans are often in effect during the dry summer months.
• Campgrounds are busiest during Canadian holiday weekends—Victoria Day in May, Canada Day in July, BC Day in August, and Labour Day in September.