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Perry Mack
Explore on and off the water. You can come and go as you please to enjoy a series of activities.
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Perry Mack
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Perry Mack
Boat camping allows you to enjoy on-water pastimes activities in one setting.
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Perry Mack
The ideal setting for boat camping on Okanagan Lake.
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Perry Mack
Boat camping provides the ideal chance to view stunning sunsets, seen here.
Words by Steve Fennell
Camping with your boat is a popular pastime and for good reason. It offers all the peacefulness of a quiet anchorage, while allowing you to bring along extra gear, another cooler or two, the ability to create a comfortable atmosphere at your shoreside site, and even expand your activities. In fact, you have the best of all worlds for active outdoor enjoyment. Fish in the morning. Wakeboard in the afternoon. Go for a hike or gather around a fire in the evening – the outdoors can’t get any better.
Camping with your boat differs greatly than with a car or RV. Boat-accessible sites are often more remote, which is one of the key highlights of course, but it also means the luxuries of a camp store or a quick drive to re-stock food, supplies or additional gear are limited. There are many boat-accessible sites throughout the lakes of the Okanagan and make the most of your trip by properly planning, organizing, plus employing safe camping and boating practices.
Here are five tips to remember for your next boat camping trip in the Okanagan:
1. Plan for Unexpected Weather
Weather is always an important issue no matter what type of activity you enjoy on the water and it’s wise to take precaution when camping with your boat. If possible, plan for an extra day at either end of your trip to compensate for foul weather. Rough water or isolated storms often cause delays. Conditions can change on a dime – from calm to dangerous in less than an hour. Always keep an eye on the weather and remember that whatever conditions arise, they don’t last – you can always wait it out.
If you allow for an extra day or two, you can also take advantage of unexpected beautiful conditions, allowing you to get more out of your vacation. Also, remember peak summer is an extremely popular time in this area, so it’s wise to arrive a day or two early to find that choice location before the start of a long weekend (and not on the Friday evening). You’ll be glad you did.
2. Don’t be a Bad Neighbour
Partying and camping mix well for many people. If your plans include heavy socializing with friends and blasting your tunes into the wee hours, think twice. If you choose a site nearby to others, remember many enjoy this pastime for the peace and tranquility. So, always follow the common RV park rules of music being turned off and keeping noise to minimum after 10:00 p.m., simply out of courtesy. Also, if you’re already set up and the party is in full swing, it’s best to inform newly arriving boaters of your intentions or choose a more isolated site. By all means avoid a location where a family is already set up. This will pay off for both groups.
3. Know of Your Surroundings
Just as you can arrange a float plan at a marina, always be sure to tell someone trustworthy where you are going, how long you will be gone and when you will return.
If serious weather arises or you have a serious accident, you know you can expect a rescue. Also, pay attention to your surroundings. Beware of rocky shoals or obstructions and know the water depth. If you plan on doing some hiking, become familiar with the area by speaking with other campers or do some research before your trip about the trails and current conditions.
4. Moor your Boat Properly and Securely
If you leave your site for a day hike (or even for a few hours), ensure your boat is securely moored to prevent the chance of it being damaged by rough weather and water, coming loose or sinking altogether – it does happen. The wind can pick up quickly in the Okanagan and the last thing you want is a damaged hull or engine beyond repair in the middle of nowhere. Make sure everything is secure, there’s proper leeway (or slack) on your lines to compensate from the force of the wind, or your boat is safely secured right up on shore.
5. Wildlife, Campfires and More
Like any camping trip, adhere to the many typical wilderness camping rules, including storing your food properly. The Okanagan’s inhabitants include many animals from curious racoons, deer and big horn sheep to active bears, coyotes, wolves and cougars. All food should be securely stored and stoves, coolers, even camping furniture should be thoroughly wiped clean after meals.
Also, keep your campsite clean, never feed wildlife, make sure your dog is on a leash, and learn about any wildlife reports in the area before your trip.
Most importantly, campfires should be used with extreme caution. Although it’s often recommended to use a camp stove, most still resort to conventional open fires. According to BC Parks, poorly managed and abandoned campfires result in numerous wildfires each year and you must be aware of fire bans in the Okanagan.
For more details on fire bans or a long list camping basics visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca.
There are few activities more enjoyable than boat camping and having quick access to fishing, tubing or skiing when the urge strikes. It makes for a great vacation. With a little common sense, know-how and research, that long weekend or extended vacation will certainly be one to remember for years to come.