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Ellison
Overview
Ellison Provincial Park offers a quintessential Okanagan experience on the northeastern shores of Okanagan Lake. This 200-hectare park is celebrated for its **sheltered coves**, turquoise waters, and rugged granite cliffs. It provides a peaceful escape from the busier resort areas while remaining close to the essential conveniences of Vernon. The park is managed to preserve its natural beauty, offering a **rustic camping environment** that prioritize the outdoor experience and lakefront access over modern luxury.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just south of Vernon, the park is nestled in a classic **Okanagan Valley** landscape filled with ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forests. The terrain drops sharply into the lake, creating private, sandy beaches and dramatic viewpoints across the water. The drive into the park via Eastside Road provides a scenic introduction to the **sculpted rock formations** that define this section of the shoreline, making it one of the most visually striking parks in the British Columbia interior.
Amenities & Park Features
As a provincial park, the campsites are unserviced, meaning there are no power or water hookups at the individual pads. However, the park is designed to accommodate RV travelers with specific communal facilities:
- A **sani-station** is available for RV waste disposal and fresh water filling.
- The park features clean flush toilets and **hot showers** located within the campground loops.
- Each campsite includes a heavy-duty picnic table and a **private fire ring**.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw at Ellison. The park features a dedicated **dog beach**, allowing pets to swim freely in a designated area. The trail network is a major highlight, as it is widely recognized as one of the best locations for **mountain biking** in the region. Beyond the park boundaries, visitors are a short drive from the city of Vernon, the world-class **Predator Ridge Golf Resort**, and the stunning turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park.
Who This Park Is Best For
Ellison is an ideal choice for **self-contained RVers** who enjoy a natural, woodsy setting and are comfortable with dry camping. It is particularly popular with families who appreciate calm waters for swimming and paddling. Mountain bikers and hikers will find the direct access to **multi-use trails** a significant advantage. If you prefer a quiet, scenic retreat over a commercial resort, this park provides the perfect balance of lakeside seclusion and accessibility.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Sarah H
Really great park for walking/hiking, running, and mountain biking. Lots of trails that are mostly easy with short moderate parts. Some trails are not as well marked but most intersect and loop back so meandering is great. The trails are narrow so if you’re a walker/runner, best to be aware because bikers come around the corners fast. I hiked on the side of the parking lot- Blisters Sister, RPM, Homerun etc. Beautiful trees keep the temperatures cool. Lots of doggies as well :)
Lisa Jordan
We love Ellison provincial park, and have been returning for 5 years now to camp. The campground has nice sites, fairly private, There is a great kids playground, hiking trails (evening trail to watch the sunset is a must), flush toilets and free hot showers. The camp host is lovely, and runs a small camp store as well as always has great suggestions for things to do nearby. My only campground complaint would be to get more toilets, often seems to be a line up for them. The provincial park itself is lovely. There are 3 beaches, one of them being dog friendly. It's a good walk down a fairly steep hill to get to the beach, but the trails are well maintained (wagon or stroller friendly). There are toilets and an outdoor shower near the main 2 beaches. There are great spots to jump into lake from the cliffs or just fun to climb around, can even do rock climbing here. There is a dive park off the one beach as well if you are into that. BC parks runs a learn to fish program for kids once a week here as well. Feels like a little tropical oasis when the sun is shining.
Rita Golub
Amazing place. Visiting almost every time we are in Kelowna. It's so worth the drive. The water is super warm, and the views are magical. Lots of Saskatoon berries on the way to the beach. Some wasps on the beach, which drove us away faster this time. Over all great place to relax.
C Kinch
This is a beautiful spot for swimming. There are 2 beaches both having crystal clear water. One has granite and the other sand. Water was warm. We were here on a Monday midday so it was very quiet. Only about 5 other families. Highly recommend coming here for swimming or floating/ kayaking etc Also picnic tables. Only thing it is quite a hike from parking lot all down hill but a paved pathway. Big parking lot too.
lovsica valentine
This park is truly one of a kind, nestled between nature and the beach. The walk from the top to the beach is both beautiful and easy. We loved having our picnic here, and there's also the option to camp, making it a perfect getaway spot.