In the beautiful Canadian Rockies of British Columbia is Norbury Lake Provincial Park. With stunning mountain views, this 239-acre (97 ha) park has two lakes, Norbury & Peckham’s. The park is named after the early settler Honorable F. Paget Norbury who came to the area in the late 1800s. Initially, both lakes in the park were named Norbury, however, the Peckhams later purchased land from Norbury. The northern lake in the park then became Peckham’s Lake.
Douglas-Fir, Lodgepole Pine, and Western Larch thrive in the area’s climate. The climate tends to be wet and cloudy, though the area has snowy winters and warm summers. Surrounded by forest, many different types of wildlife frequent the park from squirrels to bighorn sheep. The lake is home to rainbow trout which is appealing to anglers who visit the park. From swimming to hiking, there is an abundance of nature to enjoy during a visit to Norbury Lake Provincial Park.
There are 46 campsites at the park, each being only a short walk to either lake. Camping season with services is open from May to September. Camping does open in April, though there will be limited to no services. Camping in April may be appealing to those who are looking for a more rustic camping experience with very few other park guests. The campsites are available on a first-come, first served basis.
Norbury Lake Provincial Park is located in East Kootenay, British Columbia. About 20 miles (32 km) northwest of Cranbrook, the park is off of Wardner Fort Steele Rd. The park is not far from the Kootenay Trout Hatchery.
The drive to the park should be hazard-free. The main highway is paved, however, the road leading into the park is gravel. Once settled in at a campsite, visitors will find it easy to navigate around the park. It is a short walk to both lakes as well as the hiking trails from the campground. Parking is available for those who prefer to drive to the park’s attractions.
Camping season with services runs from May to September. The park does open in April to campers, however, there are no services and it is user-maintained. There are 46 campsites, most of which are available on a first-come, first served basis. A handful of sites can be reserved for long-term guests with a minimum stay of four consecutive weeks.
The campsites are located under a canopy of trees which provide shade and privacy to campers. There will be plenty of opportunities to see wildlife in the park from your campsite. The campground is located walking distance to each lake, though guests have the option of driving as well.
There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups. There are water taps located throughout the park, but keep in mind that the water may be shut off during the off-season. There are pit toilets for park visitors. Each campsite has a fire ring. Park guests can bring in their own firewood or purchase wood at the park. Check for burn bans or limited burn hours. Leashed pets are permitted in the park. There is a designated pet area on Peckham’s Lake where your pet can swim and play.
Bring your canoe, kayak, or other non-motorized watercraft to enjoy being out on the lake during your stay. Explore the shoreline and take in the scenery the park has to offer. There is a boat launch at Peckham’s Lake, providing easy lake access. Motorized boats are not permitted on either lake.
Fishing is a popular activity for visitors at Norbury Lake Provincial Park. With an abundance of rainbow trout in the park’s lakes, anglers are bound to reel in a fish or two. For those looking to fish from the water, there is a boat launch located at Peckham’s Lake. Non-motorized boats only are allowed on the lake. Remember to bring or pick up a fishing license.
Swimming is popular on warm summer days. There is a beach area at the lake providing access for those looking to swim, wade, or lounge on the bank of the lake. Bring some sandwiches and snacks along to have a picnic lunch while you enjoy the clear, glimmering lake water. No lifeguards are on duty at the park.
Visitors to the park will see much of the park’s wildlife during their stay. During the wintertime deer, elk, and bighorn sheep are common to the area. There are also a number of squirrels and birds that can be seen throughout the park. Take precautions if you see any wildlife. Keep a safe distance and don’t feed the animals.
There are a couple of hiking trails at Norbury Lake Provincial Park. One trail leads from the vehicle camping area to Norbury Lake then loops back to the campground. The other trail begins near the campground and loops around Peckham’s Lake to the boat launch. While out on the trails, keep an eye out for the park’s wildlife and enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain scenery.
Your dog will have fun exploring the park and hiking trails with you during your stay. Take your dog over to the north end of Peckham’s Lake to let them swim or play a round or two of fetch. Though pets are permitted at the park, they must remain on a leash at all times and kept under control. Be sure to pick up after your pet!
