
Kekuli Bay Provincial Park
Kekuli Bay Provincial Park offers stunning blue lake waters, a scenic rail trail for biking, and a well-equipped campground.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds

Kekuli Bay Provincial Park
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kekuli Bay Provincial Park offers stunning blue lake waters, a scenic rail trail for biking, and a well-equipped campground.
"Mesmerizing blue waters and a great rail trail make this a beautiful spot for camping and outdoor activities."

🪑 Pack Beach Chairs
Beaches are rocky, so bring chairs or a blanket for comfortable lounging by the water.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of potential wildlife like snakes and marmots on trails.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mesmerizing Blue Waters
Okanagan Lake
The lake boasts stunning shades of blue and green, offering crystal-clear views of underwater plants. Absolutely mesmerizing!

Scenic Rail Trail Cycling
Kekuli Bay to Okanagan Lake
Cycle or hike along the former railway line, offering beautiful lake views and a great way to get exercise.

Dog-Friendly Paradise
Park-wide
Bring your furry friends! Kekuli Bay is a fantastic spot for dogs to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.

Serene Lakeside Camping
Campground
Enjoy a quiet campground experience with friendly staff and pet-friendly policies, set against the gorgeous Okanagan Lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rocky Shores
Camping Vibes: Tents vs. RVs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪑 Pack Beach Chairs
Beaches are rocky, so bring chairs or a blanket for comfortable lounging by the water.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of potential wildlife like snakes and marmots on trails.
🚲 Bike the Rail Trail
The old railway line offers a fantastic, scenic path for biking along the lake.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
This park is a great spot for your canine companions to explore and enjoy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪑 Pack Beach Chairs
Beaches are rocky, so bring chairs or a blanket for comfortable lounging by the water.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of potential wildlife like snakes and marmots on trails.
🚲 Bike the Rail Trail
The old railway line offers a fantastic, scenic path for biking along the lake.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
This park is a great spot for your canine companions to explore and enjoy.
🚗 Drive to Amenities
No amenities within walking distance; plan for a 10-minute drive to shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kekuli Bay Provincial Park for its stunningly blue lake waters and the scenic rail trail perfect for biking and hiking. The campground offers good facilities like flush toilets and showers, and it's a pet-friendly spot. However, some find the beaches rocky and note a lack of privacy at campsites, with amenities requiring a short drive.
"It's a nice boat launch and ok campsites but there's not a lot of privacy so we felt like it's only good for a few nights. There's not a lot to do except swim, ride your bike, use the boat launch and a small playground for young kids. There is the rail trail that winds along the lake that bisects the boat launch road and it's a great way to get some exercise. Their beaches are rocky but the water makes up for it. It's not within walking distance to any amenities so you'll need to drive around 10 minutes to get anything."
KC K.
"Water is blue, have mainly 2 shades to it, light and dark blue, absolutely mesmerizing and the place is serene. Sometimes it also have shades of green. It has plenty of parking space and boat launch area. You can also spot people fishing. The water is crystal clear and you can view submerged or underwater plants. Its not an ordinary lake with a sandy beach. It's rocky with no sand, so do take chairs with you if you want to sit and relax. There is biking trail all along. Can also spot poison ivy in the area. All in all a beautiful location and a must visit."
Tiara
"Great camping in the desert. Quiet campground, respectful campers. Staff very friendly. Pet friendly. Gorgeous Kal lake!
Lots of little field mice running around in the long grass and bush areas, you rarely see them. Watch for bull and rattle snakes if going on a hike. Lots of deer around.
Playground is situated near the day use area which is a really beautiful space. Picnic area is on green grass and overlooking the lake. Playground is pretty big as well.
Boat launch area kind of sucks because it's such a busy lake. Huge parking lot but even that was packed full.
Bathrooms have flush toilets even in the outhouses. The main bathroom building has a toilet stall and a few shower stalls as well."
Mandira Joy Friesen (Mandi)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kekuli Bay Provincial Park is located along Highway 97, north of Vernon, BC. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage. The park offers ample parking, especially at the boat launch area.
Public transport options to Kekuli Bay Provincial Park are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the Vernon area.
From Kelowna, it's about a 45-minute drive north. From Kamloops, it's approximately a 1.5-hour drive south.
Yes, the town of Vernon is about a 10-minute drive away and offers various amenities, including grocery stores and restaurants.
Highway 97 is generally well-maintained. However, always check local road conditions, especially during winter months, though summer access is typically straightforward.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day-use access to Kekuli Bay Provincial Park is generally free. However, camping fees apply for overnight stays. It's always a good idea to check the official BC Parks website for the most current fee information.
Campsites at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park can typically be booked online through the BC Parks reservation system. Popular times, especially in summer, fill up quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Provincial parks in BC are generally open year-round for day use. However, camping facilities and specific amenities like the boat launch may have seasonal operating hours. Check BC Parks for details.
While some provincial parks allow for first-come, first-served camping, it's increasingly common for all sites to be reservable. It's best to book ahead to guarantee a spot.
BC Parks does not typically offer discounts for camping. However, look out for any special provincial park promotions or consider off-season visits for potentially lower rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and cycling on the rail trail. There's also a playground for younger children.
Yes, there are designated areas for swimming. The water is clear and cool, though the beaches are rocky, so water shoes are recommended.
The park is a good spot for fishing, with opportunities to catch various species in Okanagan Lake. Remember to check BC fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses.
Facilities include flush toilets, showers, picnic areas with BBQs, a boat launch, and a playground.
Cell service can be spotty within the park, especially in certain camping areas. It's advisable to download any necessary maps or information offline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services directly within Kekuli Bay Provincial Park. You'll need to drive to Vernon for dining options.
Yes, picnic areas are equipped with BBQs, making it a great spot for a lakeside cookout. Remember to follow fire safety regulations.
Vernon offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to more formal restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, Vernon has several grocery stores where you can stock up on supplies for your camping trip or picnic.
Given the lack of dining options within the park, it's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to spend the entire day or camp overnight.
📸 📸 Photography
The stunning blue and green hues of Okanagan Lake are a primary subject. Capture the scenic rail trail, wildlife, and the campground vistas. Aerial shots can also be dramatic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blue of the water can still be striking.
Drone usage in BC Provincial Parks is subject to regulations. Always check the official BC Parks website for current drone policies before flying.
Keep an eye out for marmots, deer, and various bird species, including turkey vultures. Be cautious and maintain a safe distance.
The viewpoints along the rail trail offer excellent perspectives of the lake. The boat launch area also provides expansive lake views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no immediate amenities within walking distance, the drive to Vernon for supplies is short. Camping here can be convenient with flush toilets and showers available. Just be mindful of the rocky shores and potential wildlife on trails, and ensure children are supervised near the water and on the trails.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to always keep your pets on a leash as per park regulations and to clean up after them. While the park is welcoming to pets, it's also important to be aware of wildlife in the area, such as snakes, and to ensure your pet's safety. The availability of camping facilities with showers can also be a plus for pet owners after a day of outdoor adventures.
🚴♀️ Cyclists & Hikers
The trail's accessibility makes it suitable for various fitness levels. You can enjoy the fresh air, the stunning lake scenery, and the feeling of accomplishment as you traverse the path. Remember to bring water and snacks, and be aware of other users on the trail. The park's natural setting, with its desert-like vegetation and lake views, makes for a memorable cycling or hiking experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waters of Okanagan Lake
While the lake is serene, it's also a dynamic environment. Be aware of boat traffic, especially around the launch area. The clarity of the water makes it inviting, but always practice water safety. The visual appeal of the lake, with its varied colors, makes it a prime subject for photography, especially during the softer light of sunrise and sunset.
The Historic Rail Trail Experience
Cyclists and hikers alike praise the rail trail for its accessibility and the stunning vistas it provides. It's a perfect example of repurposing historical infrastructure for modern recreational use. The trail connects various points within and around the park, allowing for extended exploration. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you traverse this historic path, making it more than just a walk or ride, but a journey through nature and history.
Camping at Kekuli Bay: What to Expect
Amenities at the campground are a strong point, with flush toilets and shower facilities available, which is a significant comfort for many. The presence of picnic areas with BBQs further enhances the camping experience, allowing for enjoyable outdoor meals. Despite the proximity to Highway 97, the campground is often described as quiet and respectful. However, it's important to note that amenities like shops and restaurants are not within walking distance, requiring a short drive to Vernon.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit