Discover the serene beauty of Kamloops, Canada.
Ever considered gliding through tranquil waters surrounded by breathtaking scenery?
The best places to paddle board in Kamloops await your adventure.
Embark on a journey through Kamloops’ picturesque landscapes. Are you ready to ride?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Kamloops
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Kamloops Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Bruker Marina and Beach Club (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, afternoon winds possible
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Rainbow trout, white sturgeon, osprey
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounding hills, Kamloops Lake Beach Park
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious in windy conditions, water temperatures vary
Kamloops Lake, stretching west of the city, offers plenty of space for paddleboarders to enjoy its peaceful waters. Surrounded by picturesque hills and the quaint Kamloops Lake Beach Park, the lake is perfect for a refreshing paddling excursion.
The sunset view over the lake should not be missed, adding a touch of magic to your paddleboarding adventure.
#2 South Thompson River
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Riverside Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, some windy conditions
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, beavers, river otters
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Sandbars, untamed riparian forests
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of water flow rate, avoid flood periods
Flowing through the heart of Kamloops, the South Thompson River offers a unique paddling experience along lush riverbanks. With its gentle currents, the river provides a relaxing glide through nature’s beauty, creating an ideal escape from the city.
Keep an eye out for the occasional sandbar, perfect for taking a break and soaking in the surroundings.
#3 Shuswap Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Canoe Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, occasional wind gusts
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, eagles, loons
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Copper Island, scenic waterfront homes
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, respect private property
Although a little further out from Kamloops, Shuswap Lake offers a stunning paddleboarding landscape with its numerous beaches, bays, and islands. The pristine waters promise countless opportunities for exploration and wildlife sightings.
Copper Island, located in the center of the lake, is a popular destination for paddlers seeking a challenging excursion.
#4 McGillivray Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Mountain Lake
- 📍 Access Point: McGillivray Lake Day Use Area (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, cool alpine waters
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, loons, deer on the shorelines
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Forested shores, surrounding mountains
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Dress appropriately for high altitude, respect local rules
Nestled in the mountains just southeast of Kamloops, McGillivray Lake is an alpine paradise for anyone seeking serenity and nature. Its pristine waters and untouched ambiance make it an ideal escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Take in the beauty of the forested shores and the panoramic mountain views as you glide through the tranquil waters.
#5 Paul Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Paul Lake Provincial Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, some breezy afternoons
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Rainbow trout, ospreys, deer on the shores
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Pine forests, surrounding hills, beach areas
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect park regulations, avoid disturbance of wildlife
Paul Lake, located just a short drive from Kamloops, is a serene retreat surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills. The calm waters, accessible from Paul Lake Provincial Park, provide idyllic conditions for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.
With its sandy beaches and scenic shoreline, Paul Lake offers a truly picturesque paddling experience.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Kamloops?
Kamloops’ most popular spots for paddle boarding include Paul Lake, Heffley Lake and the Thompson River.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Kamloops?
In Kamloops, paddle boards do not need to be registered.
When is the best time to paddle board in Kamloops?
The ideal time to paddle board in Kamloops is between late spring and early fall, benefiting from the warmer temperatures.
