Camping in the Kootenays

muck · #1 06-15-2009, 03:51 PM

We will be camping for a week this summer at Kokanee Creek Prov Park and it will be the first time for us in the area. I am looking for information on other campgrounds (for future holidays) as well as places and things we need to do/see. Any information is welcome.

soapy · #2 06-15-2009, 05:54 PM

The hike up around Kokanee glacier is spectacular. There are lots of little lakes and rolling meadows as well as the glaciers. Very cool.

Blom · #3 06-15-2009, 05:56 PM

+1 on that hike, spectacular views!

pinhead · #4 06-15-2009, 06:13 PM

We've camped at Kokannee Creek before and two real close attractions are the Cody Caves and Ainsworth Hot Springs. The caves are up at the top of a ridge near Ainsworth Hot Springs and are very accessable - even for little kids.

Ainsworth Hot Springs is worth going to because it doesn't smell of sulphur like a lot of Hot springs. It also has a cold water plunge pool that is very refreshing and a cave (old mine shaft) that loops around and has water splashing down out of cracks in the ceiling.

robzilla · #5 06-16-2009, 03:19 AM

lots to do up that part of the lake. more camping to be found on the arrow lake near castlegar, syringa provincial park. water is warmer than kootenay lake. or a short drive over to the slocan lake thru kaslo. try to make plans to go to idaho peak and sandon. there's another member on here, chris, who almost goes camping every weekend, with his family. he can direct you to lots of great spots, depending on what you're looking to do.
if you're after more info, let me know as i work in nelson and could get a list of stuff for you based on what you like to do.

hockey nut · #6 06-16-2009, 04:24 AM

If you want to kill a couple of hours on a hot day you could also take the Kootney ferry from Balfour across the main lake for some ice cream / lunch browse small local shops etc and then take the ferry back. There is no cost for the ferry, Balfour is about 8-10 minutes from where you are I believe.

Also the Eagle View restaurant in Balfour has good food and a great view. A little $$ but not too bad.

Also in Kaslo there is an old paddle wheel boat ( The SS Moyia ) that used to steam up and down the Kootneys many years ago that has been restored for visitors to see. It's a small attraction but if you're in the area it's worth a look.

hth

Enjoy your trip.