Stemwinder Provincial Park
RV Guide
Introduction
The wonderful views of Similkameen River and Stemwinder Mountain at Stemwinder Provincial Park provide the perfect backdrop for memorable RV camping experiences for vacationers at the park. Located 5 km (3 miles) west of Hedley, along Highway 3, this small provincial park features a pine-dotted campground by the Similkameen River, and offers a number of recreational opportunities including hiking and biking, fishing for Mountain Whitefish, flora and fauna observation, swimming, picnicking, and pet walking.
Facilities and amenities available at Stemwinder Provincial Park include pump water, pit toilets, garbage disposal stations at the campground, wheelchair accessible areas, group camping areas, picnic tables and fire grills at campsites, firewood, and an Information Center.
Established in 1956, Stemwinder Provincial Park has a cultural heritage as an early habitat for natives evidenced by rock artifacts and the pit house depression in the park.
Similkameen River, a winding river that has smoothed surrounding rocks is a sight to behold. Just across Highway 3 from the park is a forest service road that RV campers usually hike up to get a vantage point view of the surrounding area.
RV Rentals in Stemwinder Provincial Park
Transportation
Driving
Stemwinder Provincial Park is located east of Princeton on Highway 3, British Columbia. The park is easily accessible by RVs, trailers, and other motorized vehicles as it is a simple drive-in park off Highway 3, on the northern side of Similkameen River, 5 km (3 miles) west of Hedley. The roads in the park are paved, meaning RV campers will be able to find their way around the park easily. There are no driving restrictions within the park.
Parking
There are no designated parking areas in Stemwinder Provincial Park, however RV parking is available for campers at their assigned campsites in the park. Overnight parking is also available at the park.
Public Transportation
There are no direct public transportation services to Stemwinder Provincial Park.
Campgrounds and parking in Stemwinder Provincial Park
Campsites in Stemwinder Provincial Park
Reservations camping
Stemwinder Campground
Stemwinder Campground in Stemwinder Provincial Park features 27 pet-friendly campsites available for RVs and tents. There are no RV hookups available in the campground. RV length limit in the parks is 18 ft (5m), however vacationers with larger rigs can call ahead to find out if there is space available. Amenities available at the campground include toilets, garbage disposal stations, water taps, Information Center, access to trailheads and waterfront. Some of the campsites in the campground are shaded by Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine trees, while others are open. Maximum stay in the park is 14 days.
All the campsites in the campground are reservable, however some are also available on first-come first-served basis.
Seasonal activities in Stemwinder Provincial Park
Off-Season
Road and Pet Walking
At Stemwinder Provincial Park, RV campers enjoy strolls along the park roadways. When with their pets, campers take them along on walks in the park. Dogs and humans alike will enjoy the fresh air and gentle terrain as they wander through the outstanding scenery.
Picnicking
Stemwinder Provincial Park is a popular spot for RV campers and travelers along Highway 3 to enjoy picnics and outdoor meals with family and friends. The unique location of the park on the shore of Similkameen River makes it a beautiful setting for picnics and meals.
Swimming
Stemwinder Provincial Park features a beautiful sandy beach within both an open and shaded setting which is perfect for swimming. The beach is open to swimmers of all skill levels; however, RV campers are advised to exercise caution while swimming because the river runs fast. The beach is also a popular spot to start a tube float.
In-Season
Flora and Fauna
Stemwinder Provincial Park offers RV campers opportunities on occasion to spot wildlife while on vacation at the park. Early in the morning, you may get the chance to spot river otters in Similkameen River. Bears are also occasionally seen in the park. Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine trees are abundant in the park.
Fishing
Similkameen River in Stemwinder Provincial Park is home to one of the most abundant native fish in British Columbia; Mountain Whitefish. As a result, RV campers who love angling for Mountain Whitefish visit the park to enjoy catching the fish which is abundant in the river. Catching the fish is fun, and they taste great too!
Hiking/Biking
Stemwinder Provincial Park features several short hiking trails from the campground to Similkameen River which RV campers can walk along while camped at the park to view the beautiful waterfront. Hikers are advised to watch out for and not touch poison ivy along the trails. Along the roads in the park, RV campers also enjoy cycling, however bicycle helmets are required for all cyclists in the park.
