Tunkwa Provincial Park near Logan Lake, BC REVIEW
#rvlife #travel
2022-07-31
As avid RV travelers, we have had the pleasure of exploring many breathtaking areas of Canada, but there are few places that truly stand out like Tunkwa Provincial Park near Logan Lake, BC. From the gorgeous scenery to the relaxing activities, this place is truly a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
One of the first things you'll notice about Tunkwa Provincial Park is the abundance of hats on fence posts. It seems like there are miles of them, and as it turns out, there's a heartwarming story behind it all. According to our friends at the park, a gentleman who used to fish here all the time passed away, and his family found boxes and boxes of hats in his home. They knew how much he loved to camp and fish here, so they decided to do a little tribute to him by putting hats on the posts. People have just slowly added to them over time, creating a unique and touching spectacle.
As for camping, there are over 200 campsites split between the three campgrounds in Tunkwa Provincial Park, 101 in Tunkwa, 18 in Leighton, and 21 Leighton North. What's unique about most of the campsites here is that they're called "open" sites, meaning you can have any number of trailers in one site. This is a great option for groups traveling together. They also have several ‘long-stay’ sites that campers can book for a minimum of 4 weeks at a time.
It's important to note that the bugs can get pretty bad here once the wind dies down, so be sure to bring some bug spray with you. We opted for a deet-free formula, which was relatively effective, but not as potent as Deet, if you're concerned about chemicals.
One of the highlights of our trip was trying to cook over a fire. We made traditional camping food, hot dogs and s’mores. However, we also enjoyed Indian food, which we were able to cook over the fire on our last night there. One of our favorite things to eat while camping in this area is bannock sandwiches and burgers made with bannocks, a traditional fried bread, purchased at our favorite cafe in Merritt, BC - Kekuli cafe.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting Tunkwa Provincial Park is that weather conditions can change very quickly. It can get very windy, so plan accordingly and be aware of your awning and other equipment. And don't forget to pack your warm clothes - even in the summer months, temperatures can drop pretty quickly after the sun goes down.
If you're interested in fishing, Tunkwa Provincial Park is a dream destination. The fishing is especially good for rainbow trout, and thanks to the feed in the lake, it's a great place for fish to thrive. But fishing isn't the only activity available here; you can also go mountain biking, hiking, and even horseback riding. There are two corrals in the park for horses to stay in, and the views are absolutely stunning wherever you go.
Overall, if you're looking for a peaceful and scenic place to camp and explore the great outdoors, Tunkwa Provincial Park near Logan Lake, BC is an incredible destination that you don't want to miss. Whether you're an experienced RV traveler or just looking for a new adventure, this place has something for everyone.
Traveling With an RV: Exploring Tunkwa Provincial Park near Logan Lake, BC
Traveling with an RV is one of the best ways to explore Canada's stunning wilderness. You can go wherever you please, away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the best destinations for RV enthusiasts is Tunkwa Provincial Park, nestled in the heart of the Thompson-Nicola region near Logan Lake, BC. This 5,138-hectare park is a haven for outdoor adventurers, offering an abundance of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and more.
In this article, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about Tunkwa Provincial Park and how to plan a memorable RV trip there.
Getting to Tunkwa Provincial Park
Tunkwa Provincial Park is located approximately 1.5 hours west of Kamloops and 3.5 hours northeast of Vancouver. The nearest town is Logan Lake, BC, which is about 15 minutes away from the park.
From Vancouver, take Highway 1 east towards Hope, then take the Trans-Canada Highway (BC-5) north towards Kamloops. Take the exit for Logan Lake, and head towards the park. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained, with signs pointing to the park.
RV Campsites in Tunkwa Provincial Park
Tunkwa Provincial Park has three main campgrounds, with a total of 275 campsites available for RVers. The campsites are not equipped with electrical or water hookups, but have picnic tables and fire pits. There are also several pit toilets and outhouses throughout the park.
The three campgrounds in Tunkwa Provincial Park are:
1. Tunkwa Lake Campground - This is the largest of the three campgrounds at Tunkwa Provincial Park, and includes the day-use area and a boat launch. The campground is situated along the shore of Tunkwa Lake, which is considered one of the best trout fishing lakes in BC. The sites are spacious and can accommodate large RVs.
2. Leighton Lake Campground - The sites have a gradual slope down to the lake, which is perfect for swimming or fishing. There is also a boat launch in this campground and RVs over 30 feet in length will find it more challenging to park here.
3. Leighton Lake North Campground - The campsites are located in a scenic meadow with a stunning view of the surrounding hills and Leighton lake. This campground is nearest to the ATV staging area. It is important to note that ATV’s are not permitted within park boundaries.
Activities in Tunkwa Provincial Park
Tunkwa Provincial Park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless recreational activities. Whether you want to go fishing, hiking, boating, or just relax in the great outdoors, there is something for everyone.
1. Fishing - Tunkwa Lake is renowned for its trout fishing, with rainbow trout and brook trout being the most common species. The lake is stocked regularly with fish, making it a great place for anglers of all levels. Leighton Lake is another good fishing spot, with rainbow trout and lake char being the predominant species.
2. Hiking - There are several hiking trails in Tunkwa Provincial Park, with varying lengths and difficulty. The Tunkwa Lake Trail is a 3.3 km loop trail that takes you around the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. The Leighton Lake Trail is a 2 km loop trail that takes you through a forested area and along the lake shore.
3. Boating - Tunkwa Lake and Leighton Lake are great for boating, with boat launches available at both lakes. You can bring your own boat, canoe, or kayak and enjoy countless hours on the water.
4. Wildlife Watching - Tunkwa Provincial Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, and yellow-bellied marmots. Birdwatching is also popular, with species such as eagles, hawks, and mountain bluebirds.
Tips for a Memorable RV Trip to Tunkwa Provincial Park
1. Arrive early- Tunkwa Provincial Park is a popular destination, especially during the peak summer months. To ensure you get a site that suits your needs, it’s best to arrive during the week or earlier in the day because all of the sites are first-come-first-serve.
2. Pack appropriately - Tunkwa Provincial Park is located in the mountains, which means the weather can change quickly. Be sure to bring warm clothes, rain gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
3. Follow the park rules - Tunkwa Provincial Park has specific regulations when it comes to camping, fishing, and other recreational activities. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations to avoid potential fines or penalties.
4. Respect the wildlife - Tunkwa Provincial Park is home to a variety of wildlife, so it’s important to give them their space. Do not approach or feed any animals, and store your food and garbage properly to avoid attracting them. It should be noted that yellow-bellied marmots are particularly curious creatures that have been known to cause damage to equipment left unsecured.
In conclusion, Tunkwa Provincial Park is a must-visit destination for RV enthusiasts looking for outdoor adventure. With its stunning scenery, recreational activities, and abundant wildlife, it’s a place you’ll never forget. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable RV trip to Tunkwa Provincial Park!