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Strathcona/Buttle Lake
Overview
Strathcona Provincial Park, specifically the Buttle Lake area, offers a rugged wilderness experience on Vancouver Island. As the oldest provincial park in British Columbia, it provides a deep connection to nature. This isn't a luxury resort; it is a destination for those seeking a pristine natural environment and quiet nights under the stars. The park is characterized by towering peaks and the expansive, deep blue waters of Buttle Lake itself, creating a dramatic backdrop for any camping trip.
Location & Surroundings
Situated roughly 48 kilometers west of Campbell River, the park is accessed via Highway 28. The drive transitions from coastal scenery into the dramatic heart of Vancouver Island, where the landscape is dominated by the Vancouver Island Ranges. The Buttle Lake campground is nestled among a mix of Douglas fir and western hemlock, offering a shady forest canopy that provides privacy and a true sense of isolation from the hustle of urban life.
Amenities & Park Features
RVers should arrive prepared, as this is a dry camping location focused on conservation. The campground offers basic amenities including hand-pumped well water, pit toilets, and designated fire rings at each site. Most sites are large enough to accommodate moderate-sized RVs, though there are no electrical or sewer hookups available on-site. A concrete boat launch provides easy access for motorized and non-motorized vessels, making it a favorite spot for those who travel with kayaks or fishing boats.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. A short drive away, the Lower Myra Falls offers a stunning multi-tiered cascade that flows directly into the lake. Hikers can challenge themselves on the Elk River Trail or enjoy the shorter, family-friendly loops near the campground. The lake itself is excellent for trout fishing and swimming during the summer months. For a scenic viewpoint, the Crest Mountain trail offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding wilderness and the interior of the park.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RV travelers who prioritize scenery and solitude over modern conveniences. It is a perfect fit for families looking to disconnect from technology and outdoor adventurers who use their RV as a basecamp for backcountry exploration. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the wind through the trees rather than the hum of an air conditioner, Buttle Lake will provide the quiet, rustic experience you desire.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
User Reviews
Jamin Stocks
Buttle lake is remarkable, however be sure to ask the BC parks staff about swimmers itch and where to avoid. Our group found the most amazing emerald green water, but unfortunately we also found swimmers itch. It's our own fault for not checking and/or paying attention but save yourself the discomfort and do some research. Juice is worth the squeeze here.
Sara Jane
Absolutely stunning! We just spent a week there and can't wait to go back next year. We did see one mouse but mice are super common at campgrounds. Pros: Great drinking water at the pumps Clean, large and accessible outhouses Amazing view Clean water for swimming in an absolutely beautiful location (no itch) Fairly private sites Friendly camp hosts Surprisingly not too buggy Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals on site No cell phone service (loved being offline) Cons: No enforcement of quiet times and no ability to call anyone to ask partiers to quiet down Very steep beaches, a bit of a walk from site Very dusty! I was glad when it rained one night which kept the dust down for a few days Water pumps can be a bit of a walk and take some effort to work, bring a wagon and don't expect your kids to be able to fetch water Terrible toilet paper - bring your own
T Mac
Great Provincial campsite! Clean outhouses (love the recycled nature of these new outhouses the Province is installing), old fashioned water pump has nice cold drinking water. Large sites and enough treed space between. Bit of a walk to the water but worth it: refreshingly cold and clear! Surrounded by gorgeous mountains. Windy though! We’d been warned about mice in campground and “the itch” in the lake. Neither was an issue for us! We’ll be back. Strathcona is a gem on the Island, even just for car camping. Day trip to Myra Falls was worth it, steep gravel path down (and back up ugh) led to a fierce waterfall and large pool. We were nervous about swimming with the kids in it but the current was doable and we were careful to stay safe. What a view! Another bucket list checked off. These outdoor areas are a nice adventure for the not-very-adventurous among us and allows us a wild-ish experience just up the road from Campbell River. We live in a stunning neck of the world’s woods and im so grateful at least some of it is preserved for the people to recreate!
Craig Richards
Was kept clean. We didn't have any late night partiers (which is rare) park from what we saw was kept very clean. We probably will return
K FP
This place is worth the drive, no cell service but big campsites, tall trees, good space between you and neighbours, this is the kind of place that would be on the front cover of a BC camping magazine. There is a local hike in forest to the lake, cold but refreshing. Outhouses are pit toilets, but vented, no smell, has sanitizer and toilet paper usually.
