: 256 It lies within the Strathcona Regional District.The Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, established in 2000, includes . It is a great way to escape from it all because there is no cell service or electricity, so it is super rustic. It features 86 campsites, 50 of which are reservable and 36 of which are first-come, first-serve. There are two boat launches and several wilderness boat-in campsites on Buttle Lake. It is one of Strathconas front country campsites, which means some spots can be reserved ahead of time online. The scenery is gorgeous and the rates are incredibly reasonable. If visiting on weekends or holidays (Canada Day, BC Day, or Labour Day) try to secure a spot as far in advance of your trip as possible. Established in 1911, Strathcona Provincial Park is B.C.'s oldest park and is only 10 km away. Mountain peaks - some perpetually mantled with snow - dominate the park. On-site parking, wide-open spaces and playground. Expect to see glimpses of the surrounding peaks while hiking alongside the sound of the rushing Elk River. Stay up to date on all the travel and camping news. Porpoise Bay Provincial Park is a provincial park in British Columbia, Canada. . Take care and be sure to spread the good word about how to 'Leave No Trace' in this special place. There are pit toilets and water pumps to pump your own water. You'll see footage of our drive there. see you soon back home . (1.78 km) Established. If you want to add more listings at the same mailing address, please. Mount Washington Resort is open in summer for mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and ziplining. These can be purchased through the Discover Camping. Looking for Winter Camping Know before you go camping in British Columbia. I think we will make Strathcona a yearly tradition for our family, but I am sure next year Tiame will remember to bring the poles for her tent! A small jetty invites visitors to the water's edge. At Ralph River, there are 75 campsites, 20 of which are reservable and the rest available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The most popular being the stunningly turquoise Cream Lake. You may be able to score one of the 65 first-come, first-served spots (of 161), especially mid-week, if you show up right after check-out time at 11am. The campground attendant was very friendly and cheerful, a nice departure from the self-register system in many parks. Popular ones include: swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, exploring marine campsites on nearby islands, fishing and windsurfing. Book a Tour There is a nice day use area at the base of the trail with a . This park is unique in that it incorporates a working mine, the Myra Falls Operation of Boliden-Westmin Resources Ltd. To get to the Crest Mountain Trail, travel west of Campbell River on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada on hwy 28. Close Filters . Mountain peaks - some perpetually mantled with snow - dominate the park. The remaining sites are arrayed on 3 loops in the forest. Paradise Meadows, and ultimately Forbidden Plateau, is located in Strathcona Provincial Park. Find high-quality stock photos that you won't find anywhere else. These campgrounds are at: Lake Helen MacKenzie (8.9 km loop), Kwai Lake (15.6 km loop), Circlet Lake (23 km) and Croteau Lake (14 km loop). I have been to Vancouver island But I never got to Buttle lake areathe need now is great. Strathcona Provincial Park forms the mountainous spine of Vancouver Island Lake Helen Mackenzie, Strathcona Provincial Park 8km loop, 185m elevation gain $10/per person/per night camping fees, first come first serve Strathcona Provincial Park occupies the very center of Vancouver Island, protecting mountain ranges, a huge swathe of temperate rainforest, long alpine lakes and more. . Strathcona Provincial Park map with Park Highlights. These can be purchased through the Discover Camping. Ralph River Campground has barrier-free campsites, toilets and trails. More Filters. Plus, it's always good to know what's available at each camping spot so you know what to bring and what you can leave at home. There's no dump station. Official website (250) 337-2405 Park hours: Daily 9am - 6pm About Hikers, mountaineers, climbers, anglers and wildlife watchers are drawn to the rugged mountain wilderness in Strathcona Provincial Park, which stretches more than 250,000 hectares and includes four of the five highest peaks on Vancouver Island. Mt. From the trailhead there are several easy walking trails that crisscross through beautiful wildflower-rich meadows and around pristine alpine lakes, before connecting up with more difficult alpine approach routes deeper in the Plateau. Strathcona Provincial Park Length: 8.7 mi Est. The best weather for exploring (and seeing the views) is from the beginning of June to the end of September. The park's area is 440 acres (180 ha) and includes part of the Fraser River. The campsites at Ralph River Campground are first-come, first-served with some reservable sites available. Namaste, Melissa, Your email address will not be published. Strathcona Provincial Park: Buttle Lake campground quietest place ever - See 99 traveler reviews, 137 candid photos, and great deals for Vancouver Island, Canada, at Tripadvisor. As backcountry camping sites, they are available on a first-come, first-serve basis but permits must be purchased ahead of time online at a cost of $10/person/night. Mountain peaks - some perpetually mantled with snow - dominate the park. Strathcona Provincial Park. Located almost in the centre of Vancouver Island, Strathcona park is a rugged mountain wilderness comprising more than 250,000 hectares. It was designed specifically for groups, and features a day-use yurt for socializing along with 12 tent pads. Voir photos, commodits et activits proximit. Your email address will not be published. Hikers, mountaineers, climbers, anglers and wildlife watchers are drawn to the rugged mountain wilderness in Strathcona Provincial Park, which stretches more than 250,000 hectares and includes four of the five highest peaks on Vancouver Island. 160 sites in 2 campgrounds at Buttle Lake and Ralph River. You will be super roughing it at Buttle Lake campground . All Hipcampers should review and adhere to these standards for safety, trip preparation, and respect in order to uphold Hipcamps most important value: leave it better.. It is a great way to escape from it all because there is no cell service or electricity, so it is super rustic. Support 10Adventures by booking your hotel through one of our links. Campsites all have a steel fire ring so that visitors can enjoy a campfire (when fire bans are not in place!). Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Great swimming is available within walking distance from all Ralph River campsites, making it a great summer destination - especially with kids! Maximum stay is 14 days. : 256 It lies within the Strathcona Regional District. at nearly every campsite. Search from Strathcona Provincial Park Photos stock photos, pictures and royalty-free images from iStock. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page. The main trail can also be accessed from the Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park. 1 Strathcona Park Lodge, +1 250-286-3122, info@StrathconaParkLodge.com. Well run you through a brief description of each of these core areas, along with what sort of camping is available and the popular hiking routes nearby. There is an RV campground of the same name at the north end, and another called Ralph River at the south. 3,209 people follow this. BC Geographical Names. You can unsubscribe electronically at any time. The second campsite at Gravel Flats is roughly 10 km from the trailhead and is the last place to camp before Landslide Lake, where camping is not permitted. BC Parks. The sites are generously sized, gravel, mostly level and tucked into the trees for shade and privacy. If you have multiple properties with different mailing addresses, you can create a new property for each here. Find the most current and reliable 7 day weather forecasts, storm alerts, reports and information for [city] with The Weather Network. Access 32 trusted reviews, 19 photos & 8 tips from fellow RVers. For that reason, Vancouver Island is the perfect place to go camping. This is a remote wilderness area, and visitors should be self-sufficient and prepared for changing weather conditions. The trailhead for the Elk River Trail is located off of Highway 28, in the northeastern area of the Park. Hipcamp is created with and hope for our future. It can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to camp when planning your first visit to Strathcona Park. Disclosure: This post contains references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers. . Coalition. 178 ha. These two lakes, Bedwell and Baby Bedwell, are absolutely spectacular as they are surrounded by mountain peaks and it feels like you . We integrate with the National Weather Service to provide valuable fire advisories to Hosts and Hipcampers. The Bedwell Lakes trail is a perfect introduction to backcountry alpine hiking in the area. There's no cell coverage. Every stay is unique - just like our guests. Hiking & Mountaineering - Some of the Island's best day, overnight and multi-day trips are all within a 20-minute drive of our property. Melissa's Blog Posts, Vlog / by Melissa West / 2 Comments. Thanks for watching. The oldest BC park established in 1911. There are a number of camping platforms at the lake, most leave the bulk of their gear at the lake and pack light for the summit. Reservations are recommended from mid-May to September and must be booked through BC Parks Discover Camping website. I enjoyed your video and it is the first I have seen on your vlogI made time! This page was last edited on 3 November 2022, at 17:20 (UTC). There pit toilets and water pumps (no fittings to fill an RV) scattered throughout. Access to this southern region of the Park is via the Buttle Lake Parkway, on the very tip of Buttle Lake. Hiking trails range from barrier-free, interpretive trails to challenging multi-day hikes that crisscross the undeveloped backcountry and are served by over 100 backcountry, hike-in campsites. Located adjacent to the popular Mount Washington Ski Resort, the Paradise Meadows trailhead is accessible via Strathcona/Mount Washington Parkway. We're an outdoor recreation mecca with stunning views and easy access to remote wilderness. If visiting on weekends or holidays (Canada Day, BC Day, or Labour Day) try to secure a spot as far in advance of your trip as possible. Length: 0.8 mi Est. Listings Map. Tyee Mountain, The Elk River area on a camping trip to Strathcona Provincial Park in British Columbia. Sort By. There are two main access points to Strathcona Provincial Park; Paradise Meadows (including Forbidden Plateau) and Buttle Lake. Kings Peak The park is divided into two separate areas: Buttle Lake and vicinity, accessed via Campbell River, and Forbidden Plateau, accessed via Mount Washington. 250,000 hectares of rugged mountain wilderness in BC's oldest park . All Hipcampers should review and adhere to these standards for safety, trip preparation, and respect in order to uphold Hipcamps most important value: leave it better., By continuing below, you agree to Hipcamps. The moderate hike into this areas two large lakes (that are great for swimming!) Strathcona Provincial Park - Buttle Lake Campground Canadian Provincial and Preserves . You will be super roughing it at Buttle Lake campground, this is not glamping. There are no RV hookups in the campground. In the heart of the park is a 14 miles long skinny lake called Buttle. Governing body. Augerpoint Traverse, Ralph River Campground is a great place to stay in a camping trip to Strathcona Provincial Park in British Columbia. . The Ralph River Campground is closer to the Phillips Ridge Trailhead and has 75 vehicle accessible campsites. Informed RVers have rated 7 campgrounds near Comox-Strathcona, Alberta. Elk River Trail is a beautiful hike on its own, and also the major access route to many of Strathconas prolific peaks. Colonel Foster Established in 1911, Strathcona Park is British Columbias oldest Provincial Park. Strathcona Provincial Park is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia, Canada, and the largest on Vancouver Island.Founded in 1911, the park was named for Donald Alexander Smith, 1st Baron Strathcona and Mount Royal, a wealthy philanthropist and railway pioneer. If you are coming with a large group, it may be worthwhile to check out the Driftwood Bay Groupsite. Alaska State Parks offers more than 80 recreational cabins for use by the public. It must be booked online ahead of time (hint: be sure to enter group campground in the reservation type!). Staying at Strathcona Park Lodge Our accommodation is eclectic, family-friendly and ranges from rustic charm to wilderness resort comfort. Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. It is named after the prominent twin peaks which are commonly referred to as Golden Ears (Mount Blanshard) (elevation: 1,716 metres (5,630 ft)).The park was originally part of Garibaldi Provincial Park (established 1927) but was split off as a separate park in 1967. Those seeking a quieter experience will find it less crowded on weekdays when schools are in session, during May, June, and September. Knowing where to camp in Strathcona Park to be closest to your objective will allow you to make the best use of your time when exploring the enormous park. See traveler reviews, photos and blog posts British Columbia Comox-Strathcona D Karst Creek Group Campground . ( updated Jun 2022) Camping Campsites are available from April 1 to October 31. 2022 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. Frontcountry camping is found in two spots on Buttle Lake and offer basic pit toilets and running water, and three group campsites are also available. Shorter and easier to hike than nearby Upper Myra Falls, Lower Myra Falls is kid-friendly and makes for a terrific family outing. The last of Strathconas popular camping spots is their biggest: Buttle Lake Campground. Frontcountry camping is found in two spots on Buttle Lake and offer basic pit toilets and running water, and three group campsites are also available. There are more amenities onsite than backcountry campsites, including washrooms and a water pump, and steel fire rings for a campfire (check for fire bans first!) Be Unique. For those who want to adventure further into the backcountry, there are several day hikes accessible from these campsites. The map below shows an overview of where the Strathcona Wilderness Institute (SWI) centres are located. Group Stays Camping sites start at $20/vehicle/site. Always show FREE. Mount Judson Backcountry spots need permits but not reservations. Camping in Strathcona Provincial Park Strathcona Provincial Park is open all year round, providing camping facilities at Buttle Lake and Ralph River, as well as five marine backcountry camping areas, on Buttle Lake and Upper Campbell Lake. Strathcona Provincial Park is open for camping from April 1 to October 31. The driving time is about 55 minutes to the pullout beside the information kiosk. The province and BC Housing have committed to finding housing for campers and removing all tents and structures from the park by April 30. interface language English Franais The climbing in Strathcona Park is excellent and ranges from the limestone cliffs of Marblerock Canyon to the dramatic alpine walls of Mt Colonel Foster. Jim Mitchell Lake Strathcona-Westmin Park is surrounded by Strathcona Provincial Park on central Vancouver Island. This is also the busy season, as summer vacation starts at the end of June. This gives you a 1,041-metre head start on elevation. There are some large fallen trees to walk around and the creek has a lot of active rock falls but the trail is easily passable. BC Corp. Know before you go camping in British Columbia. You may be able to score one of the 65 first-come, first-served spots (of 161), especially mid-week, if you show up right after check-out time at 11am. Ralph River Campground is an ideal base for exploring the Park with a bit more comfort at a central location. Distance Highest Rated Most Reviews Category. It is located in the centre of Vancouver Island and protects about 250,000 hectares. Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Strathcona Provincial Park on Vancouver Island is home to endless epic hikes. Explore the most popular camping trails in Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Within the Forbidden Plateau there are three backcountry campgrounds and one designated backcountry group camping site. It was a beautiful four hour drive from Victoria to get to the park. Strathcona Park, Central Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Strathcona Provincial Park. The Park protects vast tracts of wilderness, including Buttle Lake and the highest peaks on Vancouver Island. Over the last week we took 4 days to go camping in Strathcona Provincial Park. Mount Albert Edward Rservez votre terrain aujourd'hui. Shop rainbow falls provincial park pillows created by independent artists from around the globe. Copyright 2022 The Camping and RVing British Columbia Text is available under the Creative Commons . Buttle Lake offers the only two vehicle-accessible campgrounds available in Strathcona Park (Buttle Lake and Ralph River). Strathcona Park is home to about 268 camping spots. Its central proximity makes it an excellent starting point for shorter, lower elevation hiking or for the various marine recreation activities available on Buttle Lake. Golden Ears Provincial Park is a Provincial park in British Columbia, Canada and is 555.9 square kilometres (214.6 sq mi). We took in a lot of small hikes from the campground including Elk River Lookout Point (unfortunately we didnt see any elk during our entire trip), the Wild Ginger Trail, Lady Falls and Lupin Falls. I agree to receive Commercial Electronic Messages via Constant Contact from BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association, the management company of the Camping and RVing BC Coalition, that will include the Camping and RV BC's newsletter with details on special offers, promotions, new Coalition member announcements, upcoming events about tourism related news, and other camping related information. Those seeking a quieter experience will find it less crowded on weekdays when schools are in session, during May, June, and September. The cabins are located along trails and near remote lakes, streams, and saltwater beaches. Only show listings you can book instantly with no waiting for a Host's confirmation. Im so glad you have been able to visit our beautiful island. Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Strathcona Provincial Park has two front-country campgrounds located within park boundaries: Buttle Lake and Ralph River. Strathcona Provincial Park offers some of the best backcountry experiences on Vancouver Island. Buttle Lake Campground also welcomes vehicle and RV campers, and features washroom and water pump amenities. It's located basically in the centre of Vancouver Island and includes about 250,000 hectares of remote wilderness beauty. Located almost in the centre of Vancouver Island, Strathcona park is a rugged mountain wilderness comprising more than 250,000 hectares. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at nearby Strathcona Park Lodge, which also organizes a variety of tours. Most cabins are accessible year 'round, by either float plane, wheel plane, boat, or trail.. Campgrounds operated by federal and state agencies are not yet bookable on Hipcamp. The campground offers pit toilets, garbage bins, and recycling. ), camping is also a very cost effective way to travel and explore this beautiful place. $0 - $200 avg/night. Mountain peaks - some perpetually mantled with snow - dominate the park. User Ratings Overall Rating 9.7 Strathcona Provincial Park Camping: Campendium has reviews of 4 Campgrounds in Strathcona Provincial Park. display_name => Karst Creek Group Campground: title_tag => meta_description => longitude => -125.52739275547482: latitude => 49. . 5h 49m This route departs from Circlet Lake. Offers weekend camps for tourists with activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, etc.