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Advisories

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Vehicle-accessible camping

This park offers a rustic camping experience for those interested mainly in fishing. There are no designated sites and the area is best suited to truck and camper units as opposed to trailers or motor homes. There are no picnic tables or taps. Campfires are only allowed in the designated fire pits in the campground. The camping area is in mature Douglas fir forest with some old growth cottonwood a short distance from the lake. The campsite is open year-round and is user-maintained.

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Campfires

Campfires are only permitted in the designated campfire pits in the campground area. Firewood is not provided and removal or burning of natural debris is prohibited. Limited burning hours or campfire bans may be implemented. Recommend bringing a portable stove for cooking.

Pit or flush toilets

The small camping area has one pit toilet.

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Fishing

Darke Lake is a very popular fishing spot. It is stocked by the Summerland Trout Hatchery with both rainbow trout and brook trout. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Darke Lake is very popular with local residents for ice fishing. It is small enough to freeze but large enough that it doesn’t freeze solid allowing fish to be active in the winter for ice fishing opportunities. Another bonus is the close proximity to Summerland and easy access.

Pets on leash

Pets and 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.

Cycling

Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

Please note that bicycles with electric assist motors (e-bikes) are not allowed on the trails within Darke Lake Park. E-bikes are restricted to park roads and areas where motorized use is permitted. The only exception to this policy will be for authorized and identified trail maintenance bikes conducting work on behalf of BC Parks.

Horseback riding

Horses are allowed in this park and a permit is not required.

Hunting

The park is open to hunting. Please check the BC Hunting & Trapping Regulations Synopsis for more information.

Winter recreation

There are no specific cross-country or snowshoeing trails in the park. However, there are a number of old logging roads through the park that provide skiing opportunities depending on snow levels. Roads through the park provide opportunities for snowmobiling, though lack of snow may be a problem. The lake is small enough that you can ice-skate when it freezes.

Darke Lake is very popular with local residents for ice fishing. It is small enough to freeze but large enough that it doesn’t freeze solid allowing fish to be active in the winter for ice fishing opportunities. Another bonus is the close proximity to Summerland and easy access.