Bear Creek Recreation Site Campground

Despite being the largest lake (60 kilometers long in total) within a two hour drive of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, there are surprisingly few established campground on the shore of Harrison Lake. But among all of those that exist in the area, Bear Creek Recreation Site Campground is arguably its best.

The campground is short on conventional modern amenities; picnic tables, fire rings and vault toilets are all that's provided. But the shoreline setting with panoramic views of the Coast Mountains certainly makes up for it. Adjacent Bear Creek Falls also makes the rough 14.9-kilometer gravel road access worth its while.

The campground itself has roughly 14 sites, some of which are closer together than others, and they can all be reserved. If all are taken however, consider driving an additional 5 kilometers north on Harrison East Forest Service Road to reach Cogburn Beach Recreation Site Campground, which has roughly 25 walk-in campsites.

Also, don't miss stopping to see Slollicum Creek Falls en route, located 8.3 kilometers to the south. Marked only by a bridge crossing, its 76-meter and 15-meter drop can clearly be seen from the road.

Note: Bear Creek Recreation Site Campground is typically open from the beginning of May through the end of November. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served bases, although campsites can be reserved on Tuesday and Wednesday nights up to 60 days in advance. Call Recreation Sites and Trails BC at 604.701.8657 for date specifics and reservation information. Camping fees can be paid in cash only.