Okanagan - Manning/Similkameen

BC Parks - Okanagan Camping

The Provincial Parks throughout the Okanagan are often nestled into lakeside havens, which combine a restful atmosphere and a balmy climate. These parks offer excellent base camps from which to explore. Places like Historic Fintry near Vernon echo with the area's mining heritage.

Allison Lake

Size: 23 Ha
Facilities: 24 campsites and a day-use picnic area next to the lake.
Location: 28 km north of Princeton along Highway 5A.
This is a convenient spot located on the scenic Hwy 5A.

Bromley Rock

Size: 149 Ha
Facilities: 17 campsites and day-use area.
Location: 21 km east of Princeton on the Similkameen River right off Highway 3.
Located across from a striking rock bluff along the Similkameen River. The day-use is very popular for picnicking and swimming. This area of the Similkameen River is very popular with kayakers.

Cathedral

Size: 33272 Ha
Facilities: 3 backcountry campgrounds at Quiniscoe Lake (30 sites), Lake of the Woods (28 sites) and Pyramid Lake (12 sites).
Location: 3 km west of Keremeos off Highway 3. Take Ashnola Road from the highway and cross a red covered bridge. 10 km later the pavement ends and the Ashnola Forest Service Road, which leads into the park, begins. This road extends 48 km upstream to the south end of the Ashnola Valley.
Cathedral Park is a very popular hiking area, but the season can be very short due to the high elevation and potential for snow. The season is generally the end of June to early October. No vehicles are allowed into the core area on the private access road. Cathedral Lakes Lodge provides jeep transportation service (fee for service) from the base area to the Lodge next to Quiniscoe Lake in the park’s core area, 16 km away.

E.C. Manning

Size: 70844 Ha
Facilities: 355 campsites at 4 campgrounds: Lightning Lakes (143 sites), Coldspring (64 sites), Hampton (99 sites) and Mule Deer (49). Ten wilderness backcountry camping areas are available with a total of 55 sites. Day-use area, group sites, flush toilets, showers, sani-station. Day-use pay parking is in effect.
Location: The western entrance is 26 km east of Hope, and the eastern portal is 52 km west of Princeton, both off Highway 3.
Manning Park is one of the most popular destination areas in British Columbia. Hiking trails are abundant with hike lengths ranging from 15 minutes to 5 or 6 days. Canoe/kayak rentals available at Lightning Lake (no mo¬tor boats allowed). This park is a very popular winter destination as well. Winter camping (for a fee) is also available.

Otter Lake

Size: 51 Ha
Facilities: 45 campsites, day-use area, boat launch, pit and flush toilets.
Location: 33 km north of Princeton on Highway 5A towards Coalmont and Tulameen.
This park offers a day-use area in the village of Tulameen and a lakeside campground about 5 km from village. Wildlife viewing includes otter, beaver, mountain goats, cougars, and grizzly bears in more remote sections. A very popular campground during the summer.

Stemwinder

Size: 4 Ha
Facilities: 26 campsites, hand water pump, pit toilets.
Location: 35 km east of Princeton on Highway 3.
Stemwinder is located by the Similkameen River - a popular spot for picnickers and anglers. Watch out for strong river conditions and poison ivy along river banks.