Squamish Recreation

Camping in and around Squamish can be a year round outdoor activity. Nature provides all the attractions.

PROVINCIAL CAMPGROUNDS

Located just 12 kilometers north of Squamish town centre,is one of the Lower Mainland's most popular camping retreats. The four lakes of the park, Alice, Edith, Fawn and Stump, are a great place to cool off in the summer. The Four Lakes Interpretive Trail which connects the lakes is an excursion for people of all fitness levels. There is a playground, beach and picnic area at Alice Lake. Interpretive programs for the whole family run through the spring, summer and fall.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is one of the largest provincial parks in British Columbia and extends from Whistler to Squamish. Its unique geological features— many of which formed 10,000 years ago during the last ice age when several of the area's volcanic centres were active and include Mount Garibaldi, Black Tusk, Table Mountain, the Barrier, Garibaldi Lake to name a few — offer its visitor outstanding vistas in both the winter and summer. The park is a favorite Lower Mainland backcountry skiing destination in the winter and boasts fabulous hiking of all difficulties in the summer. Visitors to the park should be prepared for a backcountry experience: suitable footwear, clothing, water and food is necessary. A public cabin in the Elfin Lakes area of Garibaldi can be used for $10 a night.

As the name indicates, Lake Lovely Water is a spectacular alpine lake encircled by a cathedral of mountain peaks. The steep climb into the recreation area is worth the effort. Several day hikes can be accessed from an Alpine Club of Canada cabin, the Tantalus Hut, at the eastern perimeter of the lake. There are also a few camp sites for those adventurers who bring their own tent. Many of the area's peaks are moderate hikes and can be ascended without the use of mountaineering equipment. The trail is accessed by crossing of the Squamish River just north of the confluence of the Squamish and Cheakamus rivers. Local companies have a ferry service. Contact the Alpine Club of Canada call Ron Royston 604-687-2711 for information on cabin usage and the Squamish Chamber of Commerce to find out about canoe ferry service.

Murrin Provincial Park

Located 8.5 kilometers south of Squamish, is home to Browning Lake, a favorite swimming, fishing and picnic destination in Sea to Sky Country. Murrin also boasts an array of granite crags for rock climbers of all abilities.

Porteau Cove Provincial Park

This outstanding marine park is well known for its diverse scuba diving experience and its seaside campground. Several wrecks have been sunk in the cove to produce man-made reefs and thus have created a prime scuba diving experience. There is also an interesting cliff dive accessed at the south end of the park. Interpretive programs are provided at the park in the summer.

Shannon Falls Provincial ParK

Located just south of Squamish, Shannon Falls casts a dramatic impression to Squamish visitors. As the third largest water fall in Canada, 335 metres, attracts thousands of visitors a year. Enjoy a picnic, take a walk to the base of the falls, investigate old forestry artifacts and displays, or hike up to the top of the falls. There is no camping at this park but a private campground is located directly across the street. See below.

Stawamus Chief Provincial Park

Squamish's latest provincial Park, created in 1996, features one of the world's largest granite monoliths, the Stawamus Chief 650 metres, and one of North America's greatest rock climbing attractions. The Three great walls of the Chief boast more than ?? climbs up to 11 rope pitches. Hikers can also reach the three summits of the Chief and the nearby Squaw via trails that can be accessed from the park headquarters or nearby Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Tent camping is available at the base of this unique mountain, just minutes from Squamish town centre.

PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS

Brennan Park Municipal Campground - located on Loggers Lane just south of the Brennan Park Recreation and Leisure Center and within walking distance of downtown Squamish. Call 604 898 3604

Across from Shannon Falls is the privately run Klahanie campground which has complete facilities. Call 604-892-3435 for information.

In a beautiful valley you will find the Paradise Valley Campground providing campers with wilderness camp sites equipped only with the essentials; no frills, just nature. Phone 604 898 1486

Next to the Brennan Park Leisure and Aquatic Center you will find the Kinsmen Campground. Drive in sites, all amenities in the Leisure Center.

And just off 99 near Brackendale just north of Squamish, is the Dryden Creek Resorts. Ltd. Conveniently located on 14 acres of forested grounds alongside Dryden Creek, they offer the following facilities and services: distinctive Motel Suites, fully serviced RV Park, tent Camping, store, portable pavilions and Group Rates for retreats, events and special functions. Phone 604 898 9726