From tranquil lakeside retreats to mountainous escapes, Penticton offers many camping experiences. Let's explore the top campgrounds and RV parks and cover everything you need to know, from prices to amenities, ensuring your next outdoor adventure in Penticton is memorable.
Overview of Penticton Campgrounds
Penticton's diverse camping options cater to all preferences. With sites nestled along lakes, tucked away by rivers, or perched in the mountains, you can choose your ideal backdrop. For those who prefer not to rough it, glamping provides a comfortable alternative, blending outdoor fun with the comforts of home.
The camping season here stretches from mid-April to early October, with the warm and dry months of July and August drawing the largest crowds. Planning is crucial, as the most sought-after spots require booking well in advance, sometimes with a minimum stay of five to seven nights. For climbing enthusiasts, Skaha Bluffs is best visited in the cooler months of April, May, June, and September to avoid the summer heat.
Highlighted Campgrounds and RV Parks
Lost Moose Campground
Just 20 minutes from Penticton, Lost Moose Campground is a favourite for its remote feel and range of accommodations, including tent and glamping options. Facilities include free hot showers, flush toilets, and ample hiking trails. With prices ranging from $40 to $100 per night, it offers a balance of solitude and amenities without breaking the bank.
Oxbow RV Resort
Ideal for those who love water activities, Oxbow RV Resort is close to Penticton's famous beaches and the Penticton Channel Float. The resort prides itself on cleanliness and offers RV sites with 30-amp power, water, and sewer connections. Pets are restricted during the high season in July and August, and prices vary from $44 to $66 per night.
Barefoot Beach Resort's Yurt Village
Barefoot Beach Resort's Yurt Village offers fully equipped yurts near Skaha Lake for a unique stay. This glamping experience does come at a higher price, ranging from $140 to $550 per night, reflecting its upscale amenities and prime location.
Wright's Beach Camp
As Penticton's only waterfront campground, Wright's Beach Camp is notable for its full hookups and comprehensive facilities, including a swimming pool and playground. This makes it an excellent choice for families looking for a beachside vacation. Nightly rates are between $55 and $78.
Accessible and Affordable Camping Options
sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (Okanagan Falls) Provincial Park
This park offers a more traditional provincial park camping experience close to Penticton with basic amenities for a modest $25 per night. It's an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the frills of commercial campgrounds.
Idleback Lake Recreation Site
About 50 minutes from Penticton, Idleback Lake provides free camping opportunities focused on nature lovers. This site is perfect for those on a budget and seeking a peaceful retreat away from more populated areas.
Naramata Campground
This campground is part of the Naramata Centre, which offers shaded sites near Okanagan Lake. With rates between $90 and $130 per night, it's a bit pricier but well-liked for its serene setting and proximity to vineyards and cultural sites.
Recommendations for an Ideal Camping Trip
When planning your camping trip in Penticton, consider what's most important for your comfort and enjoyment. Families often prefer campgrounds with modern facilities such as flush toilets and playgrounds, and proximity to water bodies for swimming and relaxation is a big plus. For those seeking solitude, the quieter provincial campgrounds may be more appealing. However, amenities like showers and playgrounds might be limited.
Choosing the right campground can enhance your experience. With some planning and knowledge of what each site offers, your Penticton camping trip can be everything you hope for.
