Ready for your next RV adventure? Why not plan a trip to British Columbia's Okanagan Falls Provincial Park? It's a tranquil, rural retreat you'll not soon forget.
Okanagan Falls Provincial Park was founded on March 16th, 1956, and consists of two hectares (five acres) of property. The land was originally home to the Osoyoos Indians, a people group who have assumed the management and operations of this recreational area and campground. Originally inhabited by the ancestors of the Osoyoos Indians, this property was their home territory and has long been cared for by them. In 2015, this park was renamed to reflect its rich heritage as an indigenous land. Its new name pays homage to the maintenance of the space as a haven for the oral tradition of storytelling. The park's current name translates to "little falls," a "handle" which forms a connection with Washington state's Kettle Falls. Both of these water features are important fishing sites.
Okanagan Falls Provincial Park closes its campground the third weekend of September each year for its Okanagan Nation Alliance's Salmon Feast. During this time, the Osoyoos Indians dedicate their time and talents to bringing awareness to Okanagan history and culture as well as to the revitalization of the sockeye salmon supply in the Okanagan River. Though the campsite remains closed during this weekend, the event is open to the public.
Though this park is relatively small, it rests in a very picturesque area, located near the outlet of Skaha Lake on the banks of the Okanagan River. This recreational area is near to the town of Okanagan Falls where families can enjoy such activities as shopping, dining, exploring wineries, and golfing. There are also many fruit stands where families can enjoy a bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables in season.
For a relaxing vacation in the heart of British Columbia's lush wine country, plan your next RV stay at Okanagan Falls Provincial Park. It's an amazing place for a relaxing holiday.
Travelling from Kelowna, BC to Okanagan Falls Provincial Park covers 81 km (50 miles) of picturesque ground. To follow this route, make a right hand turn onto Harvey Ave/Okanagan Hwy/BC-97 S. Continue following Okanagan Hwy/BC-97 S until you reach the sign for Okanagan Hwy/Railway St/BC-97 S. Turn right here. Remain on this highway, taking a right hand turn onto Green Lake Road. The park can be found on the left hand side of this highway. This journey travels over two lane highways kept in excellent condition. Construction occurs on occasion, but in general, traffic moves along well.
The route from Vancouver, BC to this park is far longer at 386 km (240 miles). To reach your destination, begin by taking Transcanada Hwy/BC-1 E from W Georgia St/BC-1A, Terminal Ave and E 1st Ave. Continue along this highway, migrating onto BC-3 E to the Keremeos Bypass Road in Okanagan-Similkameen. Remain on Highway 3A E until the exit for BC-97 S. Make a right hand turn onto this highway and continue until the sign for Green Lake Road, making a right here. The park is on the left hand side of this road. A much longer journey from a metropolitan city, you will travel on highways of both two and four lanes, some of which are heavily congested. The highways are in good condition. In the summer months, road construction is possible, so be prepared to experience delays.
Parking is available to the public in the lot found at the entrance to Okanagan Falls Provincial Park.
Okanagan Falls Campground offers campsites for reservation for RV and tent camping from May 17th through September 2nd annually. There are 25 campsites which can accommodate larger RVs and tents. No power or water hookups are available; however, generator use is allowed. Dogs may join their families at this campground but must remain leashed.
Though reservations are only accepted from May 17th through September 2nd, the park remains open for camping from March 30th through October 15th. During the off season months, campsites are obtained on a first come, first served basis.
The on-site amenities at this campground include picnic tables, firepits, pit toilets, and cold tap water.
The most popular activities include cycling, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
The lush grounds of the Okanagan Falls Provincial Park make it the ideal spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. Picnic tables are provided at the campsites as well as in several locations throughout the grounds. Pack a lunch and bring along some drinking water to keep hunger and thirst at bay. You can enjoy your meal at one of the picnic areas or bring along a blanket to feast directly from the grass while you enjoy the warmth of the sun beating down on your skin.
Your dog may join you for your picnic, but they must remain on a leash at all times. It is important to note that dogs are not permitted in public buildings or at the beach.
The nearby town of Okanagan Falls offers families the opportunity to enjoy some adventure while visiting this beautiful provincial park. Okanagan Falls is home to some of the region's finest dining with an emphasis placed on locally produced ingredients which are often purchased from one of the many area fruit stands.
There are lots of interesting boutiques if shopping tops your list of must-do's during your visit to this town. Since Okanagan Falls is in the heart of wine country, you can schedule a tour of a local vineyard.
Thinking of doing something a little more active? Why not check out one of the area golf courses where you can enjoy a round on the greens?
Okanagan Falls Provincial Park is home to a number of trails that are suitable for both hiking and cycling. Since the terrain in this region is varied and prone to hills in spots, you will want to be sure you are careful in your navigation. Bring along some drinking water and snacks to keep your strength and your hydration levels up.
British Columbia law mandates the use of helmets by all people cycling in the area.
Due to its remote location, there is no public transit to this park and campground. For a fee, taxi service is available from the nearby town of Okanagan Falls.
Hiking is another popular sport at Okanagan Falls Provincial Park. To the west side of the Okanagan River lies a trail which traverses the campground and runs the length of the park. Along this route, you will find several interpretive signs which contain information about the local fishery and its history.
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for hiking. Bring along drinking water and some food to enjoy.
Your dog may join you on your hike, but they must remain on a leash.
Both Little Falls and nearby Washington state's Kettle Falls are two areas that are rich in fishing opportunities. The Okanagan River itself is also a haven for an enriched supply of sockeye salmon.
Bring along your rod and your reel and try your hand at some fishing from the banks of the river or paddle out to the water's depths in your canoe.
You will need to be sure to have bottled water with you to keep from becoming too thirsty.
Okanagan Falls Provincial Park is an extremely scenic property. The rolling landscape is the ideal backdrop for capturing some photos.
As you wander along the recreational trail, by the river's edge, or through the forest, you will feast your eyes--and your lens--on some rare plant and animal life that make this region their home.
You can also take a short drive into the heart of wine country where you can record footage of the acres of grapevines, a breathtaking sight to behold!
