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Champion Lakes
Overview
Champion Lakes Provincial Park offers a quintessential Kootenay camping experience centered around a scenic chain of three interconnected lakes. Nestled within an old-growth forest, this park provides a tranquil escape where the haunting calls of loons and the gentle rustle of Douglas fir trees define the atmosphere. It is a premier destination where RVers can disconnect from the digital world and fully immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of British Columbia's interior.
Location & Surroundings
Located just a short drive north of Fruitvale, BC, the park is perched within the rolling highlands of the Selkirk Mountains. The surroundings are dominated by vibrant greenery and the crystal-clear waters of the three lakes. The winding road into the park transitions travelers from the rural charm of the West Kootenays into a secluded wilderness setting that feels remarkably remote, providing a perfect mountain sanctuary far from the noise of the highway.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a dry camping destination, offering 95 well-spaced sites that accommodate various RV sizes. While there are no electrical hookups, the park provides essential facilities for a comfortable stay:
- A convenient sani-dump station located near the park entrance.
- Multiple hand pumps for potable water access throughout the grounds.
- Clean pit toilets, picnic tables, and designated fire rings at every site.
The main beach area features change houses and a playground for families, while the boat launch is reserved for non-motorized craft to maintain the quiet, pristine atmosphere of the water.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw for visitors to this region. A popular 6.5-kilometer trail loop circles the lakes, offering excellent birdwatching and nature photography opportunities. Anglers often visit to fish for rainbow trout in the 3rd lake, while the warm summer waters of the 2nd lake are perfect for swimming. For a change of pace, the nearby Columbia River offers world-class fly fishing, and the local shops and cafes in Fruitvale provide a glimpse into small-town mountain life.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for traditional RVers who value natural beauty and peace over modern resort luxuries. It is a fantastic choice for families looking for a safe, lakefront environment where children can play and for those who enjoy off-grid camping in a quiet, forested setting. If you prefer a peaceful night under the stars without the hum of heavy traffic or city lights, this park will perfectly suit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
R8ROY
Lovely peaceful place to stay and camp ❤
Noah Strauss
Very nice beach.
Diane Green
Great place for families. 2 nice beach areas, no motorboats, so very good for kayaking, stand up boards etc. Clean facilities, has pump out station and water for RV's. You will probably need a vehicle to get all your beach stuff to the beach access, but other than that, loved it!
Lisa Parks
I took my son there for summer vacation three or four times when he was young, and it was an awesome experience every time. The campsites are spacious, level, and well maintained, and the staff were awesome. First Lake has a nice little beach and the water is super-warm. Love the painted turtles! We enjoyed not having cellphone service because it gave us an opportunity to really get away from it all. However, if there was an emergency, you would not be able to call for help. I would love to return there some day.
Katherine Hosford
This is a nice campground with plenty of sites to choose from, and all within walking distance to a warm lake for swimming. No cell service, and the mosquitoes are BAD, but overall really well-maintained campground. The only reason for not giving 5 stars was that it was probably the most active place I've ever camped. Campers were quite loud and we didn't really get the peace and quiet you look for when camping. No offense at all to families, but for a couple who was camping, we found it to be quite loud. Could just be the COVID busyness, too. Would be a great place for families. Would highly recommend the look-out trail for the view, and the walk around the 2nd and 1st lake was a nice stroll.