The best camping near Silver Lake Provincial Park

Silver Lake Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s Skagit Valley, near the town of Hope, which sits at the intersection of the three main highways–1, 3, and 5–that take road-trippers across the province. In this largely undeveloped park, you can swim in the lake or go fishing for trout (catch and release only). Campers can choose from 25 vehicle-accessible sites in the small campground, which is within walking or cycling distance from the lakeshore, the day-use area, and the boat launch. The campground has pit toilets, but no flush toilets, showers, or hookups.

1. You can make advance reservations for 20 of the 25 campsites at Silver Lake Provincial Park through BC Parks’ Discover Camping online booking site. The park’s remaining five sites are first-come, first-served.
2. From early September until mid-October, when the park closes for the season, reservations aren’t available, and all the campsites at Silver Lake become first-come, first-served only.
3. It’s easier to secure a campsite booking (or show up and find a site) if you’re coming midweek, in spring, or in fall, than on weekends during the summer peak season.

Silver Lake Provincial Park and its campground are open from late April through mid-October. Like most British Columbia parks, Silver Lake is busiest from late June through early September, particularly on weekends. The park is 160 kilometres from Vancouver, which makes it accessible as a weekend getaway for city residents. Expect a little more rain in the spring or fall, but both seasons can often be pleasant and less busy. Although the campgrounds aren’t open in winter and the park gates are locked, you can still walk in for winter activities.

• The small town of Hope, 12 kilometres north of Silver Lake, has some shops, cafes, and services. For a broader selection, get your provisions in the larger communities to the west, such as Chilliwack, Abbotsford, or Vancouver. The park has drinking water but no food or other services.
• Silver Lake is located in bear country. Secure your food, dispose of your garbage in bear-proof receptacles, and don’t leave anything lying around your campsite that could attract a bear.
• From March through June, ticks can be prevalent in the park. Wear long pants, and regularly check yourself, kids, and pets for ticks.