Banana Island Provincial Park

Park Info

A small and environmentally sensitive island in the South Thompson River, Banana Island Park is not suitable for recreation. The park protects spring salmon spawning grounds and nesting grounds for a variety of birds and waterfowl such as Canadian geese, osprey and bald eagles and also wintering habitat for Tundra and Trumpeter Swan. Nesting waterfowl are found here from April to July, with nesting raptors from spring until August. Note - there are no camping or day-use facilities provided at this park.

Park Size: 10.4 hectares

Special Notes:

Banana Island is not suitable for dogs due to wildlife issues and the potential for trauma to nesting waterfowl. This is a very sensitive area, used from spring through late summer by nesting birds

General Visitor Information

• Park User Fees
• What to Know Before You Go
• General Safety & Ethics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Fishing and Hunting Information
• Other Links

Location

• Location Map

Banana Island is located on the South Thompson River, approximately 35 km east of Kamloops. The closest communities, towns and cities are Pritchard, Kamloops and Chase.

Nature & Culture

• History - The park was created on April 30, 1996 as a result of recommendations made in the Kamloops Land and Resource Management Plan.
• Cultural Heritage - Cultural significance is associated with the historical use of the river, evidenced by the many kekuli pits (semi-underground pit-houses) on the island. Historical use by the Neskonlith Indian band.
• Conservation - The island is long, narrow and vegetated with ponderosa pine and grassy undercover. It is a significant waterfowl nesting site, especially for Canada geese and also for Osprey and Bald Eagle, and wintering habitat for Tundra and Trumpeter Swan. The downstream end of the island is also near to spring salmon spawning grounds.
• Wildlife - Nesting waterfowl are found here from April to July, with nesting raptors from spring until August.

Management Planning

Management Planning Information

• Approved Management Direction Statement

Activities Available At This Park

		Canoeing

		Fishing

		Hunting

		Wildlife Viewing

Facilities Available At This Park

		Pit or Flush Toilets