Skip to content
4.5(18 reviews)

James Lake Recreation Site

Central Okanagan I, BC V4V 1T5, Canada

Plain-text version · Kelowna (plain text)

About This Campsite

James Lake Recreation Site

Nestled amidst a scenic backdrop, the James Lake Recreation Site offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake here is known for its remarkable clarity and warmth, providing an inviting atmosphere for various water activities.

Essential Information

  • Pros: The lake offers a beautiful setting, excellent for swimming and kayaking with its clear water. It is also a great spot for fishing, providing opportunities to catch species like the Kokanee salmon. The area is rich in wildlife, with regular sightings of loons, eagles, and even families of ducks.
  • Cons: Access can be challenging as it requires driving on a bumpy forestry road that may not be suitable for all vehicles. The presence of mosquitos, especially during twilight, is notable, so carrying bug spray is advised. Additionally, visitors may experience poor cell service, which might be a concern for some.

Visitor Tips

  • Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.
  • While there is no cell service at the site, the lack of connectivity allows for a more immersive natural experience.
  • Bring appropriate gear if planning to camp, especially insect repellent to combat the high mosquito population.
  • Be mindful about waste disposal to help keep the site clean and beautiful for future visitors.

Overall, the James Lake Recreation Site is a haven for relaxation and adventure, presenting both challenges and rewards for its visitors. While it offers striking natural beauty and abundant wildlife, being prepared for its more rugged aspects will ensure a pleasurable visit.

Photos

Photos provided by Google

Reviews

Reviews provided by Google

Newman Berman

09/30/2023

Very low water level mid September. Nice recreation site not too far from town. Access by forestry road which can be bumpy for several kilometers.

lacey holmes

07/02/2021

My fav rec site so far! Beautiful lake, great place to swim. Not too many weeds or sediment, more rocky. We took our kayaks around the whole lake and saw lots of wildlife. Loons, eagles, fish, frogs, hundreds of tadpoles... Definitely a great place to take kids or go fishing. Spotty reception. We had a family of ducks hang out in our campsite during our stay 🙂 Lots of mosquitos during twilight. Bring bugs spray!!

Shinn Inagaki

07/29/2021

Clear and warm water👍🐟 Wednesday night by myself alone fishing.😀 Will be back for Kokanee salmon. 🎣

Sherrilee Franks

06/13/2021

Nice place. No cell service. Road is very bumpy but not unusually so.

Ruth Cross

08/02/2022

Ah yes James lake campground, few things no one has mentioned or I have failed to read myself. The last 10-15 km to James lake campground is absolutely garbage, seriously terrible. If you don't like mosquitos or tend to get eaten alive don't go here, I got absolutely swarmed and that was with layer after layer of bugspray. No cell service up there which wasn't an issue for me but always something good to know beforehand. Also garbage. People have left a lot of garbage behind, I took as much as I could back with me so hopefully it's cleaner then when I went but I definitely recommend a truck if you go there