Fire Restrictions in Effect for this Park
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Activities Available at this Park
Facilities Available at this Park
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Visitor Information

Mountain and lake weather can change rapidly, be prepared. Visitors should be aware that high winds can come up quickly. 

Canal Flats Provincial Park

About This Park

Canal Flats Provincial Park

This day use park situated at the southern end of Columbia Lake offers spectacular mountain vistas and lakeshore recreation. It is a wonderful place for sunbathing, picnicking, water sports, and boating; it is also a popular destination for windsurfers.

Canal Flats Park has a public boat launch for access to the lake and some protected moorage. An enclosed swimming area and adjacent tables make this a perfect beach setting for lakeside outings

Please note: This park is cooperatively managed by the Canal Flats Beach Club. Services and facilities may differ from those offered in other BC Parks.

Park Size: 6 hectares

Special Notes:

This park is a popular destination for wind surfers.

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Location and Maps

The park is located at the south end of Columbia Lake near the village of Canal Flats. Access this park by turning east off Highway 93/95 at Canal Flats, go to the main village and proceed north for 2 km to the park gates.

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Nature and Culture

  • History - Not far from the park are the remains of a canal, constructed in the 1880's,that connected Columbia Lake with the nearby Kootenay River, hence the name Canal Flats.
  • Conservation - Columbia Lake is the source of the Columbia River that flows north to Kinbasket Lake then turns south to finally empty into the Pacific Ocean at Astoria, Oregon. The nearby Columbia River Wetlands and the cattail marshes along the edge of the lake are a birdwatchers paradise.
  • General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information
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Management Planning

Management Planning Information

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Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

Canoeing

There are paddling, canoeing and kayaking opportunities on Columbia Lake..
Cycling

Cycling

Bicycles must keep to roadways and bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing

Fishing

Columbia Lake offers fishing for kokanee in the summer and ling cod in winter. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Pets on Leash

Pets on Leash

Pets/domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement.

Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
Swimming

Swimming

You will find an enclosed swimming area along a developed beach at this park. There are NO LIFEGUARDS on duty at provincial parks.
Waterskiing

Waterskiing

There are waterskiing opportunities at this park.
Windsurfing

Windsurfing

This is a very popular area for windsurfers.
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Facilities Available at this Park

Boat Launch

Boat Launch

There is a single-lane, concrete ramp boat launch to access Columbia Lake at this park.
Drinking Water

Drinking Water

Two cold water taps are located within the park. Water is available during the summer operating months.
Picnic Areas

Picnic Areas

There is a day-use picnic area with tables (some with sun shelters), grassed area and a large parking area.
Pit or Flush Toilets

Pit or Flush Toilets

Two pit toilets are available. There are no flush toilets.
Wheelchair Access

Wheelchair Access

There is some wheelchair access at this park.