Hiking

Hiking and Camping: Kelowna's Best Trailside Campsites

A camping tent and two blue chairs set up on a grassy area under a clear, sunny sky in Okanagan.

In Kelowna, the adventure doesn't end where the trail does. It's a place where the serene beauty of forested trails leads you to exceptional campsites, creating a seamless blend of exploration and relaxation.

Bear Creek Park

On the shores of Okanagan Lake, Bear Creek Provincial Park is a summertime favourite, only 11 kilometres from Kelowna. The park sprawls across 158 hectares, offering a campground that melds peaceful natural surroundings with convenient access to over 5 kilometres of scenic forest and canyon trails. The Canyon Trail, a highlight within the park, is a 2.5-kilometre journey presenting stunning views of the canyon and Kelowna itself.

The campsite at Bear Creek features 143 sites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, catering to both RV and tent campers. Facilities are thoughtfully spread out in three large loops, each offering unique access to the creek and lakeside trails. For water enthusiasts, the park doesn’t disappoint – from paddleboat and kayak rentals to nearby waterskiing and jetskiing options, the lake is a hub of aquatic activity.

Canyon Farms RV Park

Canyon Farms RV Park, located 14 kilometres southeast of Kelowna, offers a unique small-farm atmosphere. The park's gravelled campsites are spaciously laid out among a cultivated blend of flowers, shrubbery, and trees, providing a tranquil retreat. This landscaped campground is designed for big rigs, offering full services including Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. Pets are welcome too, ensuring a family-friendly stay.

Adjacent to the park, hikers can explore the trails of Scenic Canyon Regional Park, a natural gem with breathtaking views. The park’s proximity to two golf courses, Gallagher's Canyon and its 9-hole counterpart, offers an additional recreational outlet for visitors.

Apple Valley Orchard & RV Park

Just 8 kilometres from Kelowna's urban heart, Apple Valley Orchard & RV Park immerses you in a pastoral setting. Here, guests can enjoy the unique experience of picking seasonal fruit right from their campsite, complementing the stunning views of Knox Mountain and Lake Okanagan.

While tent camping isn’t an option, the RV park caters admirably to motorhome enthusiasts with full-service sites. Nearby Knox Mountain Park offers a variety of trails, including the popular Apex Trail and Paul's Tomb Trail, providing a perfect balance of nature and convenience.

Farming Karma RV Park

Farming Karma RV Park, an 11-kilometer drive east of downtown, is more than just a campsite; it's an experience. Set amidst a cherry orchard, it offers panoramic views of the city, lake, and valley hills. The park is a stone’s throw from the wilderness trails of Sntsk'il'ntən Regional Park, inviting hikers to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Unique to Farming Karma are amenities like a dog park, a deluxe "Dog Wash and Dry Station," and a three-hole disc golf course. The on-site soda tasting bar adds a delightful twist to your camping experience.

Orchard Valley RV Park

Orchard Valley RV Park, less than 9 kilometres northeast of downtown, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by fruit orchards. The park offers well appointed sites with all the necessary amenities, including Wi-Fi and cable TV. The tranquility of the setting is enhanced by the lush privacy hedges that encircle each site.

Nearby, guests can embark on leisurely strolls through the local orchards or venture to nearby regional parks for more rigorous hikes. The park's proximity to a family-run country market offers the convenience of fresh local produce, adding an authentic touch to the camping experience.

Conclusion

Kelowna's blend of stunning trails and exceptional campsites offers an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts. From lakeside views to orchard-set RV parks, each site offers its unique charm, ensuring that every visitor finds their perfect outdoor retreat. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails or relaxing by a campfire, Kelowna's natural beauty is sure to captivate and rejuvenate.

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