Are you looking for a fun and unique way to spend your time exploring the Okanagan in British Columbia?
If so, Chute Lake Lodge resort is a great destination to create some new memories with some unique options for camping in the Naramata area.
We decided to try something new and stay in a yurt at Chute Lake Lodge and this post has everything you need to know about staying at Chute Lake Lodge this upcoming season!
Disclosure: Chute Lake Lodge graciously hosted us, but all views and opinions are my own.
From the moment you arrive at Chute Lake Lodge, you’ll be in for an oasis away from all the hustle and bustle and be able to disconnect from it all and reconnect with your family. There is a sense of calm that will overcome you as you pass this entry sign.
Chute Lake Lodge is located up by the Naramata Bench and the Okanagan Provincial Park. One of the most beautiful spots in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada. There are so many things to do to fill up your days, the tough part will be deciding what you should do or just relax with the views.
What You'll Find in This Post
Things to do at Chute Lake Lodge
1. Hiking & Biking Kettle Valley Rail Trail
Chute Lake Lodge is a hub for the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) that goes through this area of British Columbia. KVR has over 650 km of trail that is basically the old railway that ran through BC and now has been transformed into this amazing recreational trail for anyone to use for free.
It is a great hiking and biking path for all ages since it is flat, generally wide enough and offers views around every corner. Portions of the railway allow for motorized vehicles (ATVs, quads, dirt bikes, trucks, etc.) while some portions are non-motorized.
We spent a few hours hiking and biking along both sides and preferred the non-motorized path going towards Penticton for a calmer and more tranquil exploration. Be sure to be prepared with a backpack with water, snacks and dress for the weather.
2. Fishing on Chute Lake
We love little lakes like these because they are so easy to navigate, great for the kids to catch some small fish, typically not windy and just chill. You can hear the loons, frogs and just watch the fish jump all around you. Chute Lake Lodge has little fishing boats that you can rent from them, so no need to bring your own if you don’t have a boat.
Bring your own fishing rods, tackle, net and fishing gear for a fun-filled family Chute Lake fishing. Chute Lake has rainbow trout with a catch limit of 6 fish per day per person. Ensure you have your fishing license purchased for the adults.
3. Stand Up Paddleboarding SUP / Kayaking / Canoeing / Swimming
Chute Lake is the perfect lake for SUP, kayaking, and canoeing! A calm, small lake that lets you cruise along anywhere in this lake and enjoy all the views. They have it all there to rent if you don’t bring your own and a chance for you to try something new.
They have a great grass area by the lake for you to setup a few chairs or blanket to relax lakeside.
4. Kids Playground & Exploring Close By
If you have kids there are these fun swing horses for them to play on and a zipline I couldn’t get our kids off. My youngest spent hours just playing with other kids here. It seems to be where all the kids gather and have their own fun. Enjoy your morning coffee while the kids play and have some fun.
You’ll also notice throughout the resort there are old vintage machines, interesting antiques and this work shed that doubles as an old museum. So much history and tells the tales of the 100 years plus history of this lodge.
You can also explore and find the rock ovens, rivers and hiking paths along the KVR trail. We were also surrounded by butterflies on this trail when we were there, so there is always some nature and wildlife to look for along the trail. If you have a bird watcher in your family then bring your binoculars since there are some amazing places to seek out birds here.
5. Chute Lake Sauna
Their wood fire sauna will be a treat and then hop into the lake to cool off. This unique sauna offers lakefront access and something different for you to try. I would suggest you book upon your arrival since this will be a hot item for visitors to enjoy.
6. Campfires
Some of the best moments when camping are sitting around the fire. Make some s’mores, campfire apple pies or campfire banana boats with the family. They have firewood there for purchase, so you’ll never run out.
Enjoy the great outdoors, quiet time and reconnect with your family telling stories around the campfire.
Don’t forget your camping essentials – we’ve put together this Camping Checklist so you don’t forget anything!
We also have this Camping Food Checklist to make your grocery shopping easier for camping!
Chute Lake Lodge Accommodations
Chute Lake Lodge is perfect for any kind of camper or wilderness explorer! They have so many different options that you’ll be sure to find some kind of accommodation that suits you best.
Chute Lake Yurts
These yurts are a very cool camping experience to try! If you have never tried staying in a yurt this is a great opportunity to stay in these unique camping spots. We stayed in the Big Meadow which had 2 queen size beds, a sitting area and a stove to heat if you needed. It was very spacious and the decor was so welcoming. We were “wowed” by these and this was glamping at its best.
They also have smaller two person sized yurts which are perfect for a couple or small family of three.
We typically tent so this was a treat for us! We have never stayed in a yurt and there is something about trying something new and staying in a place you’ve never stayed before. You will still need to bring all your outdoor camping gear and there is no running water in these yurts but so comfortable for sleeping and a very cool space inside.
Chute Lake Glamping Tents
These glamping tents are amazing and such a fun way to try camping for someone who isn’t keen on sleeping on air mattresses or the ground. Spend your days outside and then tuck yourself in these comfy beds with the glamping tents all ready for you.
These glamping tents will be next on our list to try at Chute Lake! They have family tents, twin, and queen bed tents. A few of them are lake front, so sipping morning coffee or evening wine from these front decks is camping life at its best.
Chute Lake Lodge
If you don’t want to bring any camping gear and/or if you are hiking/biking along the KVR trail and need an overnight stay you can stay at the lodge and eat at the restaurant. The lodge offers guest rooms for stays too. It doesn’t get much easier than this!
This can also be a great option for those who are doing multi-generational family trips and some families need just a place to rest their heads while they spend their days with their family on the resort.
Chute Lake Cabins
Chute Lake cabins are outfitted with everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. These cute log cabins are amazing on the inside and quintessential cabin in the forest. These are great Naramata cabin rentals if you want to be able to cook some things for yourself but not outdoors.
Chute Lake Campground
Chute Lake also has traditional options for camping. Bring all your own camping equipment and either tent or trailer for your outdoor stay.
Chute Lake Restaurant
One of the best Naramata restaurants is at Chute Lake Lodge. This restaurant was incredibly busy come lunchtime for day-trippers who drive or bike out for the day to eat at this restaurant. Home family-style tables inside and outdoor picnic table outdoors make it feel like your visiting an old friend’s house for your meal. Welcoming vibes for this restaurant at the lodge.
You can check out their Chute Lake lodge menu and daily specials online. Imagine the local food immersed with home-cooked meals with a beautiful view. They also have a kids menu too for that simpler food for kids.
How to get to Chute Lake Lodge
- Penticton to Chute Lake Lodge – When coming from the south you can get to Chute Lake Lodge from Penticton and just after Naramata turn off. This is the easiest way to navigate to Chute Lake Lodge. This was the way that we came from Kelowna.
- Kelowna to Chute Lake Lodge – When coming from Kelowna another option is to use the Kettle Valley Rail trail, but be prepared with a vehicle that can handle uneven roads, slow travel, narrow roads and other bike, people and ATV traffic on this back road. I would not suggest this route for those who are unfamiliar with the area.
- It’s always a good idea to check out the Naramata weather which can help determine the road conditions ahead of time.
The views below are from along the Naramata Bench route from Penticton. You can even stop at a few wineries along the way.
Travel Tips for Chute Lake Lodge
- You can buy firewood there so no need to bring any.
- Book your activities or gear rental when you arrive so you aren’t disappointed.
- Plan to be disconnected and unplugged. There is wi-fi at the reception area but we had no cell coverage and it was fabulous. Let someone know where you are and that you’ll be “off the grid” for a few days.
- Plan either some time before or after to visit the local wineries in Naramata Bench. They are some of the best wineries in the world.
- There is an extra charge for dogs, and check when you book what accommodations can have pets.
- They have drinking water available to refill your drinking water.
- They have e-bike rentals, but if you prefer to bring your own there are plenty of bike trails on the KVR.
- If you are planning a multi-day trip through KVR pre-book your accommodation since they may be all booked up.
Overall we really enjoyed our time at Chute Lake Lodge. It was great to disconnect and be “off the grid” for a few days and get some quality time with our kids. Staying in a yurt was really fun and will be a very memorable experience for our entire family. Chute Lake Lodge offers this opportunity to try out some unique stays and would recommend you try something new that your family has never done before to add to the excitement.
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