The best camping near Champion Lakes Provincial Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Champion Lakes Provincial Park adventure.

Discover Champion Lakes Provincial Park's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Champion Lakes Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Champion Lakes Provincial Park

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Valhalla Pines Campground

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Vallican, BC

This is a quiet forested residential area in Sinixt territory. Recommended activities include floating down the river, canoeing the lake, hiking or climbing in Valhalla Park, soaking in Halfway Hot Springs or indulging in Nelson. We are surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers. This valley has many outdoor activities and events and a very interesting history and culture including Sinixt, Doukhobor, Cannabis and Conscientious Objector. Nelson, Castlegar and Slocan Lake are all a half hour drive away. There are many other special places nearby such as the Goddess Pools and the Emerald Pools. Supplies and services are available nearby including firewood, toiletries, dog day care, massage, bike and canoe rentals, life jackets, rubber dingys and paddles etc. Let us know if you would like a referral to any of these services. There are many guides available for activities in the area including (water sports, climbing, skiing, hiking, artist tours, events, geology, mining, mushrooms, cannabis, garden tours and native history). There is a particularly valued native storyteller here that can also provide a walking tour to a nearby village site with a full scale replica of an aboriginal kekuli (earth house). Please call ahead for recommendations on booking guides or storytellers. You don't need one to get here, but its good to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle for some of the logging roads that are worth visiting. Roof and/or bike racks can also come in handy. The Vallican Whole community center also has events nearby.

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For-rest Retreat

2 sites · Lodging54 acres · 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.

Fairway Camp at Queen's Bay Resort

1 site · RV1 acre · Balfour, BC

An RV lot at a beautiful new private RV Resort in Balfour, BC - in the middle of a golf course! Kootenay Lake at your doorstep! So many recreational opportunities and close to vibrant communities with many, many restaurants and services. This fully serviced lot is suitable for an RV up to 42'. Only available to RV's that are self contained (must have toilet on board) and RV must be no older than 10 years. Available May 1st to September 30th. Minimum one month rental.

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Appledale Mountain Garden

2 sites · RVs, Tents63 acres · Nelson, BC

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.

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Cedar Creek Farm

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Winlaw, BC

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

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Retreat Yourself!

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gray Creek, BC

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. I also have a small fishing boat and 16ft catamaran that I can take guests out on for a small fee. There are 2 locations that can be rented separately or booked together, however there are also a couple of sites to pitch a tent on. 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 and the beach from 10-8pm. The other rental a.k.a. The beach-house comes with an attached outdoor 1950's style kitchen, oudoor on demand shower, outhouse, firepits, lawnchairs, and free use of water vessels. Very, very cool. It is located steps from the water. Truly magical.

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Best West Kootenay Tiny House

4 sites · Lodging3 acres · Salmo, BC

Hey - wanna unplug??! Need some rest? This well insulated, off grid cabin with its outdoor kitchen is the place you want to be. The gorgeous and serene lake just 2.5km up the road is a placid walk or an easy drive. The lake is very warm and refreshing, fed by dozens of natural aquifer springs. Pack-it-in and pack-it-out! and bring your own bedding and foods. This tiny house it tucked away among the cedars. Enjoy the crisp air - the Quiet awaits you! This area has incredible hiking, fishing, back-country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling, canoeing and jet boating - ALL WITHIN MINUTES OF THIS LOCATION. The Pend Orielle, The Columbia, and the Kootenay rivers are all nearby. Rosebud Lake is a non-motorcraft lake and is excellent for canoes, kayaks and paddle boards. There are hundred upon hundred of turtles in the lake (all very friendly and shy) and huge dragonflies (which eat all the mosquitos!) It's an excellent place for peace and quiet. This location is VERY CENTRAL and a short drive to Salmo, Trail, Castlegar or Nelson. It's a reasonable drive to get to from Spokane and Creston as well. One of the neighbours opened a little store, for eggs and ice cream and other summer snacks. The tiny house has a twin futon mattress inside, and there is an extra single mattress if there are more than two in your party. Bring your own bedding please, as this is an off-grid scenario. The building is new construction, with a classic Dickensen Marine propane heater, so with two people the space holds the heat wonderfully. Outside, you'll find a propane barbecue and two-burner for meal prep. You may wish to bring your own camping set-up as well, if you're familiar with your own equipment. Water is provided and collected from the well on the property into a large dispenser. Outhouse. Hot showers available only upon request (you can always take a dip in the lake, too). The tiny house itself is nestled amongst cedars and hemlock at the back of the property. It's very secluded and serene (see photos). Coming in 2024! a gazebo/deck atop the hill for a nice sunny lookout :)

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Private river getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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.

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Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Fruitvale, BC

We are located just off Highway 3B, 7 kms west of Salmo. Turn right onto Meadows Road. The Hip Camping entrance is the third driveway on the right hand side. Simply follow the road and the signs to the road with trees on either side that will take you right into your little oasis. Discover nature in BC's Salmo Valley mountains. Escape to tranquility, surrounded by wildlife, crickets, frogs, birds, sheep and cows. Relax, unwind,and enjoy a beautiful view. Welcome to your nature retreat, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring mountains in the heart of the picturesque Salmo Valley, BC. This location is a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty, where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature. Here, you'll be serenaded by the melodies of crickets, frogs, geese, crows, eagles, hawks, and even the calls of cows and sheep. This is a wildlife corridor, inviting creatures like wild turkeys and bears to share in the wonder of this true nature experience. Relax, unwind, and disconnect from the noise of the world while still enjoying the convenience of cell service to stay connected as needed. Our space offers some privacy and a rare, breathtaking view of the heart of the West Kootenays – an experience that's as beautiful as it is romantic. Feel free to explore the property by hiking its private trails or take a moment to sit on the bridge overlooking the serene beaver ponds and wetlands. You'll even find apple trees, Saskatoon berries, and fiddlehead ferns seasonally for you to enjoy! Just remember to be bear-aware while you're out and about. We welcome your propane fire pits as well as BBQS onsite. This is the perfect solution for those who love campfires but appreciate the care for this pristine area during dry seasons. Small, well behaved dogs and cats are welcome here but must remain on leash at all times as we do have sheep with babies onsite as well as a guardian dog that accompanies & protects them from wildlife in their fenced area. You are responsible for dumping your own trailer at a Sani-Dump as well as keeping your garbage contained within your RV to ensure safety from wildlife. Fireworks 💥 are not permitted due to the risk of potential forest fires 🔥

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Woodsy, Artsy Nature Retreat

3 sites · Lodging3 acres · Nelson, BC

Morningstar Log Cabin and Bunkieland: 3 Distinctive glamping accommodations can be rented individually or as a whole for small family reunions, intimate wedding gatherings or a group of friends getaway spot. This property is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Nelson's core. Set on the forest's edge, all the Cabins offer spectacular views of emerald-green Kootenay Lake, our beautiful city of Nelson. The cabins offer an unforgettable experience of the landscape and its wildlife. Bird watching, hiking, and biking are available on your doorstep, with nearby access to kayaking, skiing, fishing, or anything else your heart may desire from our renowned mountain ranges, 200 km of lakeshore, and four distinct seasons. With an uncommonly high number of organic farms, adventure-filled days are bolstered by local produce-driven, sustainable dining, craft beers and ciders, and the chance to unwind in our classically but eclectically furnished cabins compliment the local artsy and funky vibe. Morning Star Log Cabin is open year-round, and Bunkieland is a seasonal "glamping accommodation" available from May to Oct.Our cabins, each outfitted with a queen-sized bed and a double pull-out, are finished with unique and local artisan-designed pieces to offer a cozy rustic retreat. Taking the best parts of the remote and pairing them with comfort, one can check out reality and decompress while still within reach of civilization. There are so many activities and ways to relax you could easily stay a week without getting bored for both the timidest and most adventurous outdoor enthusiasts.

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Blackberry Hill

1 site · RV, Tent28 acres · Creston, BC

Enjoy privacy in the woods amongst the cedar trees, birches, and red pines. We have currently two available sites for RV campers. We can accommodate vehicles up to 29ft in length and the site requires small leveling. The trailers need to be prepared for off grid. Super quiet forest with lots of hikes and kayaking nearby. There are many orchards with fruit trees and vegetables just a 10-minute drive from the property. Two large red sequoias 2 minutes drive. Beautiful Kootenay lake is about 20 km north. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban, and pets are welcome. There will be firewood waiting for you. (No need to buy) The property is located in Creston Valley, BC. Creston Valley is situated just 10 kilometres north of the U.S. border and at the south end of Kootenay Lake, nestled between the majestic Selkirk & Purcell Mountains. The valley is a unique fertile agricultural region and home to many beautiful fruit orchards and wineries

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Pristine Off Grid Paradise

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · 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!

The best camping near Champion Lakes Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains, Champion Lakes Provincial Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 6 km of trails, visitors can indulge in hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The park's three lakes offer serene fishing spots, canoeing adventures, and warm swimming areas. For those seeking an overnight stay, the park provides a range of camping options, from vehicle-accessible sites to tent pads, amid a backdrop of old-growth forest and picturesque lakes.

Notable campgrounds

Reservable frontcountry sites: Offering 44 sites for those who like to plan ahead and secure their spot in nature's embrace.
Vehicle-accessible sites: 95 sites available for campers bringing their home on wheels into the heart of the wilderness.
Double sites: 13 spacious sites perfect for larger groups or families wanting to camp together amid the park's natural beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early through the BC Parks reservations system to secure your preferred campsite.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute availability at this sought-after destination.
Consider visiting during the shoulder season for a quieter experience and easier reservation opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect spot.

When to go

The prime time to visit Champion Lakes Provincial Park is between May 16 and September 16, when the park is fully operational. Early and late in the season, visitors may encounter cooler temperatures and snowfalls, while the summer months offer warm waters and full access to all park facilities.

Know before you go

Check advisories for the latest park status and operating dates before planning your visit.
Be mindful of the sharp drop-off along the swimming area and always supervise children.
Accessibility information is available for those requiring assistance to navigate the park.
Remember, powered boats are not permitted on the lakes to protect the environment from milfoil spread.
Prepare for your trip by reviewing the park's safety info, especially if visiting during cooler months.