The best camping near Christina Lake Provincial Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Christina Lake Provincial Park adventure.

Head for the beach in this compact day-use park, set on one of Canada’s warmest lakes.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Christina Lake Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Christina Lake Provincial Park

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For-rest Retreat

2 sites · Lodging54 acres · Salmo, BC

We bought this property in 2008 as raw land with an old off-grid 1950's cabin on it. While the log structure was sound, the cabin needed some major renovations to be liveable. We undertook renovations, lived in it for 6 months and then moved into a yurt on a more accessible section of our property. We now run the cabin as a short term rental, have another small rental next to our house and we are using the yurt for gatherings, retreats and yoga classes! For more info, visit our website: https://for-rest.ca Learn more about this land: AVAILABLE ALL YEAR! A backcountry-style off-grid cabin in a perfect location to explore the Kootenays. THIS CABIN IS ACCESSED BY A 0.7 KM HIKING TRAIL ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. Enjoy privacy and be close to nature at the base of Keystone Mountain. Far enough to feel like you are away from it all, close enough to experience all the Kootenays have to offer. Campfires are permitted when there is no fire ban. We have firewood available to purchase - please add this as an extra at the time of booking. Close to world-class ski hills and backcountry skiing, excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities and even private trails right out your door. Enormous snowy peaks, clear lakes, and waterfalls characterize this mountain playground in southeastern British Columbia, where visitors can expect backcountry adventures, endless singletrack mountain bike trails, hiking trails, mineral hot springs, and small towns with vibrant arts and culture scenes. Our property is located just outside of Salmo, in the Hub of the Kootenays. 30 minutes from Nelson, Castlegar, Trail, Kootenay Pass, and Champion Lakes.

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Valhalla Pines Campground

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Vallican, BC

This is a quiet forested residential area in Sinixt territory. Recommended activities include floating down the river, canoeing the lake, hiking or climbing in Valhalla Park, soaking in Halfway Hot Springs or indulging in Nelson. We are surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers. This valley has many outdoor activities and events and a very interesting history and culture including Sinixt, Doukhobor, Cannabis and Conscientious Objector. Nelson, Castlegar and Slocan Lake are all a half hour drive away. There are many other special places nearby such as the Goddess Pools and the Emerald Pools. Supplies and services are available nearby including firewood, toiletries, dog day care, massage, bike and canoe rentals, life jackets, rubber dingys and paddles etc. Let us know if you would like a referral to any of these services. There are many guides available for activities in the area including (water sports, climbing, skiing, hiking, artist tours, events, geology, mining, mushrooms, cannabis, garden tours and native history). There is a particularly valued native storyteller here that can also provide a walking tour to a nearby village site with a full scale replica of an aboriginal kekuli (earth house). Please call ahead for recommendations on booking guides or storytellers. You don't need one to get here, but its good to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle for some of the logging roads that are worth visiting. Roof and/or bike racks can also come in handy. The Vallican Whole community center also has events nearby.

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Cedar Creek Farm

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Winlaw, BC

Best described as Heaven on Earth. Whatever outdoor adventure you enjoy, this will be an ideal home base. The mountains and waters of the Kootenays are legendary. This is also a source of legendary BC Bud. This farm has been cultivating medical cannabis since 2008 and in 2020 we received our recreational cannabis licence. Wholistic health and wellness are the values that motivate our work

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Pristine Off Grid Paradise

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · BC

A stunning 320 acre off grid Ranch in the beautiful West Kootenay's near the Nelway Border Crossing. Our plan for the land is to be able to provide sanctuary, rest, education and empowerment to like minded individuals. With the stresses of modern day society we feel it is so important to be able to get away for mental health breaks, to reconnect with your inner longings for rest, community, nutrition & a true connection to nature. With no cell phone service, limited wifi, surrounded by nature we feel this is the place where you can go to "free your mind and feed your soul." With Air b n' b and Hipcamp rentals coming summer of 2024 you will be able to immerse yourself deeply in nature. The land boasts a stunning array of wildlife, bird watching, our farm animals, hiking, forest bathing, walking trails, wild flower picking and with being off grid and no lights you will not believe the epic star gazing! Nestled in the forest by the lake your accommodations are comfortable, restful and offer stunning views of the lake and all the animals that come to visit it. This is a true off grid working farm. Book a guided tour of our regenerative farm and meet all the animals!

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Best West Kootenay Tiny House

4 sites · Lodging3 acres · Salmo, BC

Hey - wanna unplug??! Need some rest? This well insulated, off grid cabin with its outdoor kitchen is the place you want to be. The gorgeous and serene lake just 2.5km up the road is a placid walk or an easy drive. The lake is very warm and refreshing, fed by dozens of natural aquifer springs. Pack-it-in and pack-it-out! and bring your own bedding and foods. This tiny house it tucked away among the cedars. Enjoy the crisp air - the Quiet awaits you! This area has incredible hiking, fishing, back-country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling, canoeing and jet boating - ALL WITHIN MINUTES OF THIS LOCATION. The Pend Orielle, The Columbia, and the Kootenay rivers are all nearby. Rosebud Lake is a non-motorcraft lake and is excellent for canoes, kayaks and paddle boards. There are hundred upon hundred of turtles in the lake (all very friendly and shy) and huge dragonflies (which eat all the mosquitos!) It's an excellent place for peace and quiet. This location is VERY CENTRAL and a short drive to Salmo, Trail, Castlegar or Nelson. It's a reasonable drive to get to from Spokane and Creston as well. One of the neighbours opened a little store, for eggs and ice cream and other summer snacks. The tiny house has a twin futon mattress inside, and there is an extra single mattress if there are more than two in your party. Bring your own bedding please, as this is an off-grid scenario. The building is new construction, with a classic Dickensen Marine propane heater, so with two people the space holds the heat wonderfully. Outside, you'll find a propane barbecue and two-burner for meal prep. You may wish to bring your own camping set-up as well, if you're familiar with your own equipment. Water is provided and collected from the well on the property into a large dispenser. Outhouse. Hot showers available only upon request (you can always take a dip in the lake, too). The tiny house itself is nestled amongst cedars and hemlock at the back of the property. It's very secluded and serene (see photos). Coming in 2024! a gazebo/deck atop the hill for a nice sunny lookout :)

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Mountain Creekside Nature Escape

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Fruitvale, BC

We are located just off Highway 3B, 7 kms west of Salmo. Turn right onto Meadows Road. The Hip Camping entrance is the third driveway on the right hand side. Simply follow the road and the signs to the road with trees on either side that will take you right into your little oasis. Discover nature in BC's Salmo Valley mountains. Escape to tranquility, surrounded by wildlife, crickets, frogs, birds, sheep and cows. Relax, unwind,and enjoy a beautiful view. Welcome to your nature retreat, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring mountains in the heart of the picturesque Salmo Valley, BC. This location is a sanctuary of pristine natural beauty, where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature. Here, you'll be serenaded by the melodies of crickets, frogs, geese, crows, eagles, hawks, and even the calls of cows and sheep. This is a wildlife corridor, inviting creatures like wild turkeys and bears to share in the wonder of this true nature experience. Relax, unwind, and disconnect from the noise of the world while still enjoying the convenience of cell service to stay connected as needed. Our space offers some privacy and a rare, breathtaking view of the heart of the West Kootenays – an experience that's as beautiful as it is romantic. Feel free to explore the property by hiking its private trails or take a moment to sit on the bridge overlooking the serene beaver ponds and wetlands. You'll even find apple trees, Saskatoon berries, and fiddlehead ferns seasonally for you to enjoy! Just remember to be bear-aware while you're out and about. We welcome your propane fire pits as well as BBQS onsite. This is the perfect solution for those who love campfires but appreciate the care for this pristine area during dry seasons. Small, well behaved dogs and cats are welcome here but must remain on leash at all times as we do have sheep with babies onsite as well as a guardian dog that accompanies & protects them from wildlife in their fenced area. You are responsible for dumping your own trailer at a Sani-Dump as well as keeping your garbage contained within your RV to ensure safety from wildlife. Fireworks 💥 are not permitted due to the risk of potential forest fires 🔥

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Azhen Sanctuary

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Rock Creek, BC

Welcome to our serene 160-acre mountain property. Experience the perfect blend of nature and comfort in your spacious luxury wall tent, featuring a queen bed, cozy couch, area rug, yoga matts, books, incense and more. Outside, your private patio awaits with a 2-seater table set, outdoor loveseat, and propane fire pit which make this the perfect place for cozy evenings under the stars. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our on-site spa/guest caretaker. Should you require assistance or have inquiries during your stay, radios are available in each tent for direct communication with our staff members. Free parking is provided directly next to your wall tent. We are excited to announce that our new spa is currently under construction and projected to be fully finished by the end of August. In the meantime, our sauna, cold plunge, compost toilet, and fire pit are fully functional and ready for you to enjoy, providing the perfect setting for relaxation with stunning mountain views. Our spa features wooden elements crafted from timber sourced directly from our land, milled from our own trees. Don't miss hiking to the peak for stunning sunrise or sunset views, and enjoy mesmerizing stargazing at night. Our communal kitchen has everything you need to cook up a delicious meal for yourself - we have a guest fridge, flat top stove/burners, cutlery, kitchenware, dishes, a dishwasher and a commercial sink. Stay connected with reliable internet access while charging devices with our solar-powered setup. Embark on an adventure beyond our sanctuary, where a variety of activities await your exploration -Float the kettle river -Check out the Rock Creek farmers market on Saturday -Hit the links at Kettle Valley Golf Club -Run or bike the kettle valley trail -Within an hours drive of Okanagan Wine Country -Mountain biking and hiking at Mount Baldy As an essential part of our working farm, we have livestock such as chickens and plan to expand our livestock in the coming years. To protect both our animals and our guests, we have livestock guardian dogs on the property. These dogs are highly trained to safeguard the farm, and their presence ensures your safety as well. You may hear them barking at night as they work to keep other animals away from our land. While they are very friendly, we kindly ask that you do not pet, feed, or interact with them. We do provide earplugs for your comfort, and we appreciate your understanding that these dogs are here for your well-being. To get to us you have to drive about 12km up a government maintained dirt road. Everyone who has come says the road is in way better shape than they thought it would be. Google maps will bring you right to the driveway (One of our employees drives a Honda Civic and has had no problems year round). We will send instructions on how to get here 48 hours upon your arrival! Leave the hustle behind and join us for a magical experience. The road may be dirt, but the journey is pure magic. We can't wait to host you!

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Arosa Ranch

9 sites · Tents160 acres · BC

Welcome to Arosa Ranch! We are just 20km from Osoyoos, BC. Nestled in the rolling Okanagan hills and surrounded by wildlife, Arosa Ranch is a peaceful and picturesque getaway on 160 acres. Tent sites nestled amongst Ponderosa Pines or with beautiful views of our pasturing horses. Our quiet peaceful campground includes washrooms with showers! We also have Full RV hookups! Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Pets are welcome. There are plenty of wineries to explore nearby right in Osoyoos! Our young family made the move from Vancouver to the beautiful Okanagan in British Columbia, Canada. We love to hike in the summer and snowshoe and ski in the winter, garden, swim, camp, fish, hunt and cook among other things. We’re excited to share our nature retreat with you all – come join us in paradise!

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Private river getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Salmo, BC

Once this property was a cattle ranch but now it's a private spot nestled right next to the Salmo river.Learn more about this land:Private camping spot and small tree fort down by the Salmo River. We have room for a 35ft camper, you will be parking on grass but the site requires levelling.We are located in Salmo, BC which is 30 minutes south of Nelson, BC. Nelson is surrounded by the rugged Selkirk Mountains and sits on the shores of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. Whether gliding through the incredible powder at Whitewater Ski Resort, rafting down class 4 rapids on the Salmo River, catching a twenty-five-pound rainbow trout on Kootenay Lake, hiking up to Kokanee Glacier, or watching the fabulous live performances at The Capitol Theatre, the area has attractions for everyone.Only a 5-minute drive to the local grocery store.Access to the mountains from the old railroad system directly off of the property by motorcycles and/or side by sides, you just need to go slow until you clear the houses.Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome.We look forward to hosting you.

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Rosebud Campground

1 site · RV129 acres · Salmo, BC

Rosebud Campground is a pristine lakeside forest campground that is 25 minutes south of Salmo, nestled in the renowned Kootenay region of British Columbia. Campsites are available for tenting, car camping, group camps and self contained R.V. units- no hook ups available. Two beach front lake access points come off the pavement for an easy way to launch your kayaks, paddle boards or non motorized floating devices to enjoy the Painted Turtle habitat and mountainside vista. Experience fishing, bird watching, hiking, forest bathing, swimming, relaxing, and a rejuvenating digital detox from your cellular devices at this off grid, yet easily accessed, campground. Please no dogs, glass, motorized boats (including electric), no soaps or surfactants in the lake, no loud music- Quite time after 11 pm. Full campground rental available, please contact us directly for more information.

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ARLO's KVR Trail Riverside Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Beaverdell, BC

Welcome to a natural, convenient location with basic amenities on the West Kettle River! We have 300 acres including 1500 meters of river frontage with access to the surround crown land and KVR trail which runs through the property. The KVR trail is your access to the property. From HWY 33 take Tuzo Main (6-7km's south of Beaverdell), cross the bridge over the Kettle and take a left onto the KVR and follow for 1900meters. One way traffic in spots, so please be patient and mindful of trail users on bikes, quads and vehicles. We currently have 5 tent only sites on the river and 25 RV/Tent sites currently about 100m from the river. Fishing, hiking, exploring, bring your quads, dirt bikes. There's plenty of roads and trails ... Even a secret honey hole fishing spot not far away but that's hush hush only locals know about this gem.

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Valhalla Mountains Getaway

1 site · Tent8 acres · Castlegar, BC

Enjoy the private seclusion of the woods as our 8-acre property backs to Crown land near the Valhalla Mountains. Only a 3-minute walk to the house and family farm. There is a bear cache for food storage, an outhouse and a clean water spigot. As well as 2 tent areas, a fire pit and a large kitchen area. Spend your days playing in the mountains, floating on the river, shopping at town markets, or just sleeping all day while enjoying the fresh air. We have two campsites available for tent or RV campers. If you're bringing an RV, we can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. The site is flat and electrical hookups are available. Amenities include potable water and wifi. Our property is close to Valhalla Provincial Park which is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in BC. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban.

The best camping near Christina Lake Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

British Columbia’s Highway 3 meanders through the forests and steep Monashee Mountains above the US border as it crosses the province. Between Grand Forks and Castlegar, the roadway skirts the south end of Christina Lake, where this small provincial park hugs the lakeshore. Christina Lake is known for its family-friendly sandy beach area and warm clear water, good for swimming, paddling, water-skiing, and fishing. It’s a handy picnicking stop for road-trippers traveling between Vancouver and the Kooteneys or Canadian Rockies. Although this day-use park has no campgrounds, campers can choose from several commercial RV parks nearby, or camp in Gladstone Provincial Park along Christina Lake’s northern shores.

Notable campgrounds

Best for lake lovers: Texas Creek Campground (Gladstone Provincial Park)
Best for boaters: Marine Access Sites (Gladstone Provincial Park)

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book in advance for the 62 reservable sites at Texas Creek Campground, which has flush toilets, pit toilets, a boat launch, but no hookups. Check Discover Camping, BC Parks’ reservation site, early in the year to see when reservations will open for the season.
The backcountry marine access sites around the lake in Gladstone Provincial Park are first-come, first served, payable in cash at Texas Creek Campground.

When to go

High season at Christina Lake Provincial Park runs from late May through early September, when the weather is mildest. The park is particularly busy with families on July and August weekends, so try to come mid-week if you’re visiting in the summer months. The crisp fall days in mid-September through October can be lovely by the lake. Snow often falls, heavily at times, throughout central British Columbia late October through March.

Know before you go

Christina Lake is eight kilometres north of the US-Canada border. The Cascade/Laurier border crossing on Highway 395 is not open 24 hours, so confirm its hours if you’re driving from the US.
Near the lake, the town of Christina Lake has some shops and services. You’ll find a broader selection of goods in Grand Forks, 22 kilometres west, or in Castlegar 77 kilometres to the east.
If you have a boat, you can camp at one of the remote marine access campsites located along the lake in Gladstone Provincial Park. Bring everything you need, and pack out your garbage, since there are no services at these backcountry areas.