The best camping near Bear Creek Provincial Park

Family-oriented Bear Creek Provincial Park has fun for everyone with lakeside and creekside camping spots, plus over 400 metres of waterfront, a playground, and kilometers of well-marked hiking trails. Set on the west side of Okanagan Lake, the park is popular for water activities and features an open forest landscape with big ponderosa pines, Douglas fir trees, and prickly pear cactus growing, much of which can be seen from the single Bear Creek campground.

• Best for families: Sites 81 to 122 come with the use of a dedicated shower and washroom.
• Best for RVs: Many of the sites between 130 and 141 are pull-through and paved with 50-amp electrical service. It's best for people who love nature but don’t want to be too far out of their comfort zones.
• Best for big groups: Sites 1 through 80 are well-sized and fairly spaced out.

1. 1. Campsite reservations are required for all campsites and can be made four months in advance by phone or via BC Parks’ Discover Camping website.
2. First-come, first-served options are available until May 15 and again after October 15, but it’s best to book in advance to secure a spot.
3. The primary camping season runs from late March to mid-October, with reservable dates varying by the campsite.

Go in the summer months to soak up some sun along the vast beaches, but be prepared for crowds. Fall and early spring are quieter times, and the park closes down for winter.

• Pets are allowed in the park so long as they’re leashed at all times.
• The park is generally accessible to wheelchair users, with roads that are paved and mostly level. Campground showers and bathrooms are wheelchair-accessible. 
• Keep in mind that the park’s entrance gates are locked nightly from 11pm to 7am.