Steelhead Provincial Park - Kamloops Lake - Thompson River

At the southwest end of Kamloops Lake at the head of the Thompson River sits a very unique provincial park. The park, established in 1995 is the site of one of the oldest homesteads in the southern interior, a stagecoach depot and ferry landing. The historic buildings and cemetery are all located on the site. The buildings have not been preserved to be suitable for any use but are protected from unwelcome four legged visitors by a fence, which also prevents the two legged visitors from entering, as well.

              A double rainbow shows Savona as being the Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow.
Overnite camping with 44 campsites is available at this popular destination camp for visitors wishing to go boating or fish on Kamloops Lake or the river. The park offers 240 meters (approx. 263 yds) along the beach and 1000 meters (approx. 1093 yds) of frontage along the river. Savona, with small town amenities is close by. There are clean shower and toilet facilities and a playground. There are water and power hookups as well and pets are fine on leash. Someone will come around daily to collect the cash only fees. It is open for business from May 1 into October.

A doorway from the Past looking at a gathering of Today.

We spent some time there with several friends celebrating a birthday on Thanksgiving weekend and our group was the only one there. It was a bit windy at times but still warm and perfect for a family reunion or gathering. The water is low at that time of year and the big beach along the lake has white sand and driftwood decorating the area. Signs of visiting kids dot the beach, with some ‘forts’ built from gathered driftwood that likely gave them hours of play, perhaps not much different than the kids of many years ago when the stagecoaches stopped here.

The day was also great for taking pictures, with the bonus of a beautiful double rainbow to enjoy. Pictures are a wonderful reminder of the places we visit, but I always wish I had taken more, we may have to take another trip out there soon.   Steelhead Provincial Park located 40 km (24 mi) west of Kamloops, on Highway 1 at Savona, B.C., Canada