Roughly midway between Vancouver and Calgary, the Shuswap is a unique and affordable summer destination for families seeking adventure, fun, and unforgettable memories. With its stunning lakes, beautiful nature, and charming small cities, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the top family-friendly summer activities to enjoy while staying in the region:

Explore the Shuswap Lake Provincial Park

Located in Scotch Creek, the Shuswap Lake Provincial Park offers sandy beaches, warm waters, and ample space for visitors. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, boating, picnicking and soaking up the sun. The park features a 1 km sand and pebble beach with a designated swimming area marked by buoys, making it perfect for families with children. Biking and hiking trails are also available, providing opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty.  

Visit the Scotch Creek Family Fun Center

Directly across from the provincial park, within The Shuswap Social District, this entertainment centre offers several family-friendly activities such as arcades, bowling, mini golf, laser tag, e-scooters, and a batting cage. The district also features a range of food and beverage options, including a restaurant, ice cream shop, and various stores and workshops.

Visit the R.J. Haney Heritage Village & Museum

Step back in time at this heritage village in Salmon Arm, featuring historic buildings, a children’s museum, and interactive exhibits. It’s both educational and fun for kids and adults alike. The site spans 40 picturesque acres and includes 24 buildings, a mix of replicas and originals, and over 30 exhibits, including the iconic 1910 Haney House.

Cool Off at the Salmon Arm Waterslides

Beat the heat at this family-friendly water park, offering a variety of slides and pools suitable for all ages. It’s a perfect spot for a day of aquatic fun. Just off the Trans-Canada Highway, the park features multiple water slides, a hot tub, and a concession stand, ensuring a fun-filled day for the entire family.

Explore the DeMille’s Farm Market

This market is located in Salmon Arm and features fresh produce, a petting zoo, and quirky photo ops, making it a delightful stop for families. Silly selfies and goofy goats are found daily at DeMille’s Farm Market, providing entertainment for kids and adults alike.

Relax at Sorrento-Blind Bay Park

This 12-acre park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and beach access, providing a serene setting for family gatherings and outdoor fun. The park is a great place to make a splash and enjoy the natural beauty of the Shuswap region. The popular Spray Park usually opens on the Victoria Day Long Weekend in May until mid-September.

Enjoy Sicamous Beach Park

Sicamous Beach Park is the spot for a picnic, a play, or a summer swim. Set up on the sand for a beach day, chill at the splash park, play at the playground, or enjoy the beach volleyball courts. With scenic views and the most beautiful lake, this is a great option to have fun in the Shuswap.

Hike Margaret Falls in Herald Provincial Park

Margaret Falls is one of the most picturesque and accessible waterfall hikes in the Shuswap, located within Herald Provincial Park. The trail to the falls is short and easy, making it perfect for families with young children or seniors. Along the way, you’ll pass through a rustic forest and over charming wooden bridges, leading to a fantastic view of the cascading falls. The surrounding park also features a beach and a picnic area for a full day of family fun. The gate is left open during the off-season until the snow stops access.

Bike and Hike the White Lake Trails

White Lake, located between Salmon Arm and Sorrento, is a local gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The area features a network of family-friendly mountain biking and walking trails that weave through scenic forests and around the clear, turquoise waters of the lake. The flat terrain and wide paths make it suitable for kids, and the quiet natural setting is perfect for spotting birds, butterflies, and even deer. After a ride, families can cool off with a swim or enjoy a lakeside picnic. A popular option for beginners is to walk or ride on White Lake Road, a mostly quiet route, where Bossa Nova Lakeside Lodge is located.

Float the Shuswap River Near Enderby

If your family enjoys water adventures, floating down the Shuswap River is a must-try. Starting near Enderby, families can spend a few hours drifting along the lazy, meandering river. It’s a popular activity, especially during hot summer days. There are entry and exit points marked along the route, and the scenic views of farmland and forest make the journey even more enjoyable. Don’t forget the mandatory life jackets and sunscreen. The most common and recommended route is from Belvidere Park to Tuey Park, which is approximately 2.5 kilometers long.

Sources: Shuswap Tourism, BC Parks, SunCruiser Publishing, Life’s Incredible Journey, R.J. Haney Heritage Village & Museum, Shuswap Trails