Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
British Columbia offers a huge variety of camping facilities, seven national parks, about 900 provincial parks, 1,200 recreation sites and numerous private campgrounds and RV parks.
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of embarking on a trip to one of these RV parks.
The RV experience seems a staple here in B.C. and quite fittingly it should be with all of natural beauty around to enjoy.
And not so far away from the Fort, a true outdoor getaway was made available to me.
Only an hour and fifteen minutes from Vanderhoof, located on the east end of Francois Lake, it was a family resort with great fishing, hiking and boating with accommodations fit for all occasions.
On this weekend in particular, it was all about time with friends, relaxing around a crackling camp fire, surrounded by the stars.
And it couldn’t have been a better location.
I was now taking in the full RV experience and it was one to remember.
With the beauty of Francois Lake which offers 80 miles of uninhabited shore line, the water proves to be a pristine haven for fishing and swimming.
But when it comes to RVing, I quickly came to realize also, the importance of proper camping etiquette.
Here are a few tips to remember according to Camping GRVBC:
- Respect fire bans. You can check out if fires are allowed by visiting the BC Wildfire Service website at http://bcfireinfo.for.gov.bc.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp
- Buy firewood locally to avoid transporting foreign species or disease into area. Often firewood is sold at campgrounds, local stores and gas stations. Do not cut down trees.
- Build fires only in designated areas. If there are no designations make sure the area is clear of debris, rotting wood, and far enough away from the trees.
- Remember to extinguish your campfires. Never leave your coals smoking. The fire is out if you are able to touch coals and not get burned!
- Remove all garbage. If you pack it in, pack it out. Campgrounds usually have great garbage bins for campers that animals can’t get in to. If there are no garbage cans, take the garbage with you.
- Recycle! Many campgrounds now have recycling bins. Remember to wash out containers and read the bin labels before disposing.
- Read the campgrounds rules. Make sure you respect each individual campground’s rules. You can generally find these rules on the campground’s website or ask when you reserve your spot.
- Ask about quiet hours. In campgrounds this is pretty important because you are all sharing your camping experiences with each other- often in tight areas.
- Pick up after Fluffy. If the campground allows pets make sure you bring plenty of dog waste bags and keep your pet on a leash. Always check with the campground first to see if animals are permitted.
- Stick to Speed limits. Children feel liberated while camping. They will ride bikes, race to playgrounds, and skip hand in hand down paths. Make sure you watch out and drive SLOWLY.
- Be respectful to campground staff. Staff have been trained to make your vacation enjoyable and they are a great resource for helpful information and tips. Please be patient at check-in and out times as this is often the busiest time for them.
- Be neighbourly. Respect your neighbours by not cutting through their campsites. If you are arriving early or leaving late, try to turn down your high beams and radio.
So just a little ways from home in Fort St James, with good friends and a stunning location, I enjoyed the ideal RVing camping experience that I had always hoped for.
For more information about camping in B.C. visit: https://www.campingrvbc.com