Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
368.00 m (1,207.35 ft)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
12.30 km (7.64 mi)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Croteau Lake is one of the newer campgrounds that B.C. parks has developed for groups to enjoy the backcountry of Strathcona Park. As far back as the 1930s, the lake had a guest lodge run by Eugene Croteau. Today, the area is a group campsite complete with a 12 tent pads, a yurt, and a small dock. Croteau Lake is ready to host groups big and small.

Check online with Discover Camping to book the site and ensure you'll find it available when you arrive. The site can host up to 25 people. However, last minute trips are possible. Obtain a backcountry permit at the trailhead and carry on to camp at Helen Mackenzie, Kwai, or Circlet lakes if you find Croteau is full. The site can be booked from mid-June to mid-September. The area can still be accessed outside these dates depending on snow levels and trail conditions. Early spring trips to Croteau can be muddy.

The campsite has a small dock for relaxing and easy swimming access. Kwai Lake and Cruikshank Canyon are a short hike away after stashing gear at Croteau Lake. It is also a great site to stay overnight before climbing Mount Albert Edward.

Being so new, the group campsite and yurt at Croteau Lake are still off the radar for most adventurers on Vancouver Island. The site is perfect for relaxing on the lake with the chairs already on the patio at the yurt waiting for you by the lake. Just be sure to check conditions before going and check trailhead signage for bear sightings.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Fall
Summer

Parking Pass

Backcountry BC Parks Pass

Open Year-round

No

Open from

June 15 to September 15

Days

2

Pros

Large capacity. Easy lake access. Shelter available.

Cons

Busy on weekends. Mud in early season.

Trailhead Elevation

3,904.20 ft (1,190.00 m)

Highest point

4,022.31 ft (1,226.00 m)

Features

Vault toilet
Near lake or river
Family friendly
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Shelters
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

Yes

Permit self-issue on site

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Cortes Island, British Columbia

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