Morton Lake Campground

Morton Lake Campground, nestled within Morton Lake Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, offers a truly authentic and tranquil camping experience. As a notable inclusion in the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, it is celebrated for its rustic charm, beautiful lakefront setting, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Located approximately 27 kilometers northwest of Campbell River, in the Sayward Forest, this campground is often referred to as a "best-kept secret" among local campers.

The environment of Morton Lake Campground is characterized by a serene, heavily treed landscape dominated by fir, hemlock, white pine, and cedar, which provides ample natural shade to many of its campsites. The campground is situated directly along the shores of Morton Lake, offering picturesque views and easy access to the water. This "lake country" setting also provides access to the larger, connected Mohun Lake, which is a significant feature of the park. Despite a devastating fire in 1938, the forest has regenerated, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem. The air is often crisp, and the sounds of nature, including the gentle lapping of lake water, contribute to a peaceful atmosphere. Access to the park involves driving on gravel logging roads (Menzies Main and Morton Lake Road), which can be rough in some areas and are better suited for higher-clearance vehicles, adding to the sense of an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Morton Lake Campground offers a range of services designed for a rustic camping experience. There are 24 campsites available, accommodating both tents and small to medium-sized trailers and motorhomes, though there are no hookups (electric, water, or sewer) at individual sites. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for traditional campfire cooking and enjoyment. For water, a cold water hand pump is available at the intersection of the campground and day-use area during the operating season. Restroom facilities consist of pit toilets, which are maintained by the park operator. There are no showers on-site. Firewood bundles are available for purchase from the park operator, encouraging campers to conserve the environment by not gathering wood from the park's natural areas. Pets are welcome at the campground but must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted in beach areas or park buildings. The campground is staffed from spring to late fall, with year-round camping available on a self-sufficient basis during the winter months.

The features of Morton Lake Campground revolve around its stunning natural setting and the multitude of recreational activities it supports. Swimming is popular, with a fine sandy beach in the day-use area and warm lake water perfect for sunbathing. Canoeing and kayaking are highly favored activities on both Morton and Mohun Lakes. Mohun Lake, in particular, serves as a gateway to the Sayward Canoe Route, a challenging 47-kilometer paddle and portage circuit for more adventurous paddlers. While there isn't a traditional boat launch at Morton Lake itself, small car-top boats and canoes can be launched, and a natural ramp for trailered boats is available on Mohun Lake. Fishing is excellent, particularly from April to June and September to October, with opportunities to catch Dolly Varden, rainbow, and cutthroat trout on Mohun Lake. Anglers should always check current regulations from Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Beyond water activities, the park offers hiking opportunities. A notable trail leads from the campground (near sites 7 and 8) to Andrew Lake, a pleasant 30-minute walk. There are also beach trails that allow campers to walk along and enjoy scenic views of Morton Lake. Biking is permitted along the park's roadways, though helmets are required. The day-use area is well-equipped with picnic tables and two change houses, making it a popular spot for day visitors as well as campers. The park's relatively small size (74 hectares) means that amenities and attractions are easily accessible from the campground, fostering a cohesive and intimate experience with nature.

Regarding promotional information and booking, Morton Lake Campground operates with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served campsites. Approximately 58% of the 24 sites are reservable, and reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the peak season from mid-May through Labour Day, as the campground is very popular. Reservations can be made through the BC Parks' Discover Camping website or by calling their reservation center. There is an additional call center charge for phone bookings. For those without reservations, the remaining sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and it's advisable to arrive early, particularly in July and August, when the campground can fill up quickly. An overflow camping area adjacent to the lake is also available during these busy months, providing an alternative for last-minute campers.

Camping fees for frontcountry camping at Morton Lake Provincial Park are approximately $18 per party per night. During the winter months (October 1 to April 30), a reduced fee of $11 per party per night applies for self-sufficient winter camping, as services are limited. An extra vehicle fee of $10 may apply for additional vehicles beyond the first one included in the camping fee. BC Seniors may receive a reduced rate during specific off-peak periods. It is always recommended to check the official BC Parks website (bcparks.ca) or Discover Camping for the most current fee schedule, reservation policies, and any advisories, such as fire bans, which are common during dry periods. While the campground itself doesn't typically run large-scale promotional campaigns, the value it offers through its serene setting, access to diverse outdoor activities, and its blend of reservable and first-come sites makes it an inherently appealing choice within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category for those seeking a rustic Canadian wilderness experience.