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jimsmith lake · kootenays

jimsmith lake

BC Parks
kootenays · British Columbia · reservable

what to expect

This 35 site campground situated among a lakeside Douglas fir and larch forest, is a peaceful and welcome retreat for the traveling public and visitors to the nearby city of Cranbrook. The campground was rebuilt in 2001 to accommodate recreational vehicles.

Sunbathing, swimming, non-motorized boating and picnicking are popular activities at Jimsmith Park that are located in a day-use waterfront area. The day-use gates are open from 8:00am to 10:00pm.

This is the perfect setting for nature study and wildlife viewing. In winter, the park is transformed into a snowy playground for tobogganing and ice skating.

the basics

waterflush toiletsaccessible
drive from calgary
2.9h · 214 km
drive from edmonton
6.4h · 480 km
drive from vancouver
7h · 527 km

stay options nearby

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private campgrounds
camp at a private site

small farms, glamping, off-grid sites listed on Hipcamp near jimsmith lake.

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rv rental
renting an rv?

this park supports rvs. find a vehicle for your dates.

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hotel nearby
not camping after all?

hotels and inns near jimsmith lake when plans change.

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what to know

updated each morning from provincial parks and Environment Canada.

no fire ban active
Last checked from the provincial fire-ban feed. Check at the gate before you light — conditions change.

what to bring

this list adapts to jimsmith lake. no showers means a travel towel; the lake means a swimsuit;

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common questions about jimsmith lake

does jimsmith lake have electric hookups?
No. Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park does not list electric hookups in its amenity profile. Plan for off-grid use.
how far is jimsmith lake from calgary?
Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park is 214 km from Calgary — approximately a 2.9-hour drive on highway routes.
do you need reservations at jimsmith lake?
Yes. Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park is operated by BC Parks and uses an online reservation system. Book direct via the operator link on this page.
when is the best time to camp at jimsmith lake?
Peak season at Jimsmith Lake Provincial Park aligns with swimmable months — Jul through Aug. Shoulder months (May, September) offer fewer crowds.

nearby places

within ~100 km of jimsmith lake.

data last refreshed 2026-05-14 from bc parks + open sources

give back to this place

volunteer at bc parks

Provincial parks rely on volunteer stewards for trail maintenance, beach clean-ups, and shoulder-season hosting. Most parks run programs through their park association.

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