Boating and Camping: The Perfect Combo for an Okanagan Lake Adventure
Summer’s winding up, but don’t you worry; you can still catch plenty of warm lake days before the season gives way into fall. And, what better way to round up the season than combining epic lake days with camping at serene spots? It’s the best way to soak up the beauty that the Okanagan Valley has to offer. So, Kelowna’s Downtown Marina has put together a guide to help you plan the perfect boating and camping trip around Okanagan Lake.
Why combine boating and camping?
Combining boating with camping will let you experience Okanagan Lake like never before. You will be able to explore hidden gems, and secluded beaches, set up camp at stunning sites, and enjoy water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or even fishing—all within one trip! (there’s a reason we love calling the Okanagan Valley home). Plus, the freedom of having your boat as both transportation and a source of fun will add an extra layer of adventure to your camping experience. At Downtown Marina, we offer boat rentals per hour, day, for a few days at a time or even 7+ days, so you’ll have great flexibility in planning your trip.
Top campsites that are accessible by boat
Bear Creek Provincial Park
Distance by boat from Downtown Marina: ~8-10 kms
Nestled on the west side of the Okanagan Lake, Bear Creek Provincial Park is a favourite among avid campers and boaters in Kelowna because not only do you get to revel in around 400 meters of sandy coastline and breathtaking hiking trails, but this campground also features amenities like no other! You can set up at 1 of 143 campsites—we recommend booking in advance as spots fill up quickly. If you’re bringing your little ones along, the park also has a children’s playground between campsites 30 and 31, so there’s lots of fun to go around!
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park
Distance by boat from Downtown Marina: ~12 kms
If you’re looking to feel one with nature through a more rugged, remote camping experience, Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park, situated on the east side of Okanagan Lake, between Kelowna and Penticton, might be for you. It is only accessible by boat or foot and features six marine campgrounds, secluded bays, trails and sandy beaches galore tucked into the 33 km of undeveloped shoreline. If you decide to climb to the top of the Okanagan Mountain, you will be able to view the gorgeous lake to the west and the picturesque Monashee Mountains to the east.
Fintry Lake Provincial Park
Distance by boat from Downtown Marina: ~25-30 kms
Heading further north, Fintry Provincial Park is located along the western shores of the Okanagan Lake. It features 150+ campsites and 2-3 boat launches in the area. This park is a natural wonder with its sloping landscape, beaches, deep canyons, and opportunities for wildlife spotting— you may spot some deer or a bighorn sheep or two! Shorts Creek passes through a deep canyon in this park, creating a series of waterfalls and deep pools that you can visit with your family; it is a great spot to capture memories too.
Ellison Provincial Park
Distance by boat from Downtown Marina: ~50-55 kms
Located further north near Vernon, Ellison Provincial Park offers lakeside views, accessible camping, and plenty of shade with its Douglas fir and ponderosa pine trees. These trees will give you much-needed privacy and a break from the heat if need be. If you are in for an adrenaline rush, you could enjoy rock climbing on the nearby granite cliffs or hit up the long trails for mountain biking. We also highly recommend trying out some scuba diving in the freshwater dive park and visiting Sandy Beach!
Tips for a Successful Boating and Camping Trip
Plan Your Route: Before setting out, map out your route and know the distances between your starting point and your chosen campsites. This ensures you have enough fuel and supplies for the trip. But don’t stress if you’ve missed out on essentials or snacks. We are a full-service marina offering boat fuel, cold refreshments, snacks, and more at our retail shop.
Check the Weather: The Okanagan Lake’s weather can change rapidly, so keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for any conditions. We will, however, stop you from boating if a serious storm blows in. Thunder and lightning are dangerous while boating.
Pack Smart: Although our boat rentals have tons of storage space, space can be limited when planning longer trips, so pack only the essentials. Focus on multipurpose items that will serve you both on the water and at your campsite.
Respect Nature: Leave no trace by packing out all your trash, respecting wildlife, and preserving the natural beauty of the area.
With easy access to several campsites and the freedom to explore the lake at your own pace, this combination of boating and camping is ideal for adventurous souls looking to experience the best of both worlds. So, pack your gear, launch your boat from Downtown Marina, and set off on a memorable Okanagan Lake adventure! Need some more recommendations or have questions, contact us; we’re more than happy to help you live your best lake life!
Ready to set sail on your best summer yet? Don’t wait—book your perfect boat with Kelowna’s Downtown Marina today and get ready for some priceless memories on the Okanagan Lake. Whether you’re planning a lively party or a rejuvenating cruise, we’ve got the ideal boat for you. Contact us now to reserve your spot!