Ellison Provincial Park British Columbia
A forested oasis above Kalamalka Lake, offering stunning beaches, clear warm waters, and diverse hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Ellison Provincial Park British Columbia
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A forested oasis above Kalamalka Lake, offering stunning beaches, clear warm waters, and diverse hiking trails.
"Feels like a little tropical oasis when the sun is shining."
Pack for the Beach Walk
It's a hike down to the beaches, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe: Strollers are manageable on paved paths.
Watch for Bikers
Trails are narrow; be aware of fast-approaching mountain bikers. :mountain_bicyclist: Stay to the side.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kalamalka Lake Beaches
Various beach access points
Crystal clear, warm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and floating. Enjoy granite or sandy shores.
Sunset Trail
Hiking trails
An easy evening hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Okanagan Valley as the sun sets.
Forest Benchlands
Hiking and biking trails
Explore diverse trails through forested areas, offering cool shade and opportunities to spot local flora.
Cliff Jumping & Rock Climbing
Rocky shoreline
For the adventurous, find spots along the rocky shoreline to jump into the lake or test your climbing skills.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Beach Walk
It's a hike down to the beaches, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe: Strollers are manageable on paved paths.
Watch for Bikers
Trails are narrow; be aware of fast-approaching mountain bikers. :mountain_bicyclist: Stay to the side.
Berry Picking Fun
Saskatoon berries are abundant on the way to the beach in season. :strawberry: Enjoy a sweet snack!
Wasps can be present
Be mindful of wasps, especially on the beach during peak summer. :bug: Pack a repellent if sensitive.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Beach Walk
It's a hike down to the beaches, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe: Strollers are manageable on paved paths.
Watch for Bikers
Trails are narrow; be aware of fast-approaching mountain bikers. :mountain_bicyclist: Stay to the side.
Berry Picking Fun
Saskatoon berries are abundant on the way to the beach in season. :strawberry: Enjoy a sweet snack!
Wasps can be present
Be mindful of wasps, especially on the beach during peak summer. :bug: Pack a repellent if sensitive.
Free Hot Showers
Campground offers free hot showers and flush toilets. :shower: A great perk for campers!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ellison Provincial Park for its stunning Kalamalka Lake access, warm waters, and beautiful beaches. The well-maintained trails for hiking and biking, along with the pleasant campground amenities like free hot showers, are frequently highlighted. Some minor concerns include potential wasp presence and occasional queues for toilets.
"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."
Lisa Jordan
"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."
Rita Golub
"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 :)"
Sarah H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ellison Provincial Park is about a 45-minute to an hour's drive from Kelowna, depending on traffic. You'll typically take Highway 97 North towards Vernon. The park is well-signposted.
Yes, there is a large parking lot at the top of the park, near the campground and trailheads. From there, it's a downhill walk to the beaches.
Public transport options to Ellison Provincial Park are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easy access.
The drive is generally straightforward on well-maintained highways. During summer, expect some traffic, especially on weekends.
The park has a large parking lot, and the main roads are accessible for RVs. Campground sites also accommodate various vehicle sizes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Ellison Provincial Park itself. However, camping fees apply if you plan to stay overnight.
The park is generally open year-round, but facilities like campgrounds and washrooms are seasonal. Check the BC Parks website for specific dates.
Campsites can be booked online through the BC Parks reservation system. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for summer weekends.
No, day-use access to the beaches and trails within Ellison Provincial Park is free.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for day trips, offering swimming, hiking, and picnicking without needing to camp.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, kayak, float, hike, run, mountain bike, rock climb, and enjoy picnics. There's also a dive park and a kids' playground.
Yes, many trails are easy with short moderate sections, perfect for beginners. The Sunset Trail is a popular easy option.
Yes, one of the beaches is designated as dog-friendly, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the lake.
The main beaches have toilets and an outdoor shower. Picnic tables are also available.
Cell service can be spotty within the park, especially down by the lake. Wi-Fi is generally not available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the park. It's best to pack your own picnic or plan to eat in Vernon.
Vernon, a short drive away, offers a variety of dining options from casual cafes to restaurants.
Yes, picnic tables are available at the park, especially near the beaches, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch.
The camp host runs a small camp store offering basic necessities and snacks for campers.
While not explicitly mentioned, picnic areas often have space for portable BBQs. Check park regulations for specifics.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches with their clear water and rocky outcrops, the viewpoint on the Sunset Trail, and the forested paths offer stunning photo opportunities. 
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful light. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant turquoise of the lake.
Drone usage is subject to Parks Canada regulations and may be restricted. Always check current bylaws before flying.
Landscape photography, nature shots, and lifestyle photos capturing people enjoying the lake and trails are very popular.
Capturing the unique color of Kalamalka Lake, the rocky shoreline, and the surrounding Okanagan landscape are common themes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the walk to the beach is downhill, remember it's an uphill return. Consider bringing beach toys and snacks. The park's natural beauty and variety of activities, from gentle hikes to lake fun, make it an engaging place for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots. Be prepared for the walk down to the lake and back up. Weekday mornings are best to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Don't forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Visitors
While dogs can enjoy the lake, be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. The hiking trails are also great for exploring with your leashed pet, offering shaded paths through the forest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kalamalka Lake's Waters
For those interested in underwater exploration, there's a designated dive park off one of the beaches. BC Parks also hosts a 'Learn to Fish' program for kids, adding another family-friendly activity to the lake's offerings. The clarity of the water makes it ideal for observing aquatic life, and the surrounding benchlands provide a picturesque backdrop for all water-based activities.
Remember to stay hydrated and use sun protection, as the Okanagan sun can be intense. While some beaches have sand, others are characterized by smooth granite rocks, so choose your spot accordingly. The walk down to the beaches is paved and manageable, though it is downhill, meaning an uphill trek back to the parking lot.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Popular trails include the 'Sunset Trail,' which provides panoramic views of the Okanagan Valley, ideal for an evening stroll. For those seeking more adventure, trails like 'Blisters Sister,' 'RPM,' and 'Homerun' offer varied terrain. It's important to note that some trails are narrow, and cyclists often come around blind corners quickly, so hikers and runners should remain aware of their surroundings and stay to the side.
While most trails are well-marked or intersect in a way that allows for enjoyable meandering, it's always a good idea to have a trail map or use a navigation app if you plan on exploring extensively. The diverse trail system ensures there's something for everyone, from a leisurely walk to a more challenging mountain biking excursion.
Camping Experience
Campers benefit from convenient amenities, including flush toilets and free hot showers, which are a significant plus. The camp host is noted for being lovely and helpful, often providing great suggestions for local activities and even running a small camp store for essentials. The evening trail for sunset viewing is a must-do for campers.
While the campground is well-regarded, one common suggestion for improvement is to increase the number of toilets, as lineups can sometimes occur. Despite this minor point, the overall camping experience is highly positive, with many visitors returning year after year. Booking in advance through the BC Parks reservation system is strongly advised, especially during peak season.
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