When it comes to camping in BC, experiences can range from a hike into the wilderness with only the supplies you can carry, to ‘glamping’ with an RV and full hookups.
No matter how you adventure, be sure to include a craft beer or two. After all, something about the great outdoors just makes beer taste better. Today we spotlight a camping and fishing ale-venture in the Cariboo.
In my lifetime, I’ve tented, dry camped in a variety of smaller rigs in rec sites and provincial parks, and now find myself in an RV at a resort with a lake view and full hookups. I’ve experienced far-flung, scenic and isolated rec sites, with little to no amenities, and while I love the feeling of really getting away from it all, I have to say that the conveniences of having running water, a warm bed that doesn’t deflate in the middle of the night, and a dedicated beer fridge are pretty nice.
This week, I’m camped in the Cariboo with my husband and our dog, and a large group of friends for our annual fishing holiday. Cariboo Bonanza Resort offers the kinds of things that really appeal to our friends with growing families and young kids who don’t have the patience for sitting in a boat all day. There’s a playground complete with zip line, a 3D archery range, and plenty of trails to mountain bike, quad or dirt bike on.
And for the anglers in the group, it offers all of the benefits of being just off of Highway 24, also known as BC’s Fishing Highway. Cast a line in any direction and you’ll find a lake full of Rainbow Trout.
Even better: there’s craft beer here too! A short drive up the road is Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House.
The Fishing
Our group of friends is largely made up of folks who work or have worked in the recreational fishing sector in some way. You’d think that most people want to avoid anything work-related on holidays, but the opposite is true here: the sturgeon and salmon guides have swapped their heavy gear for lighter fly rods, and their jet boats for jon boats in the search for the chunky rainbow trout that make the region famous.
Each day here is like a Choose Your Own Adventure book: do you fish a lake that you’ve fished in previous years or explore a new one? Do you join another angler who got some super-secret intel on a new lake from a friend of a friend (just don’t tell anyone!) or follow your gut and head off on your own?
Personally, I enjoy a mix of familiar waters and new views. Going to a lake you’ve fished in the past doesn’t, however, guarantee success. Finding the right combination of chironomid pattern, depth and spot to anchor your boat can be a challenge. But when your indicator is pulled under and you feel the tug of a fish that could be one pound or ten, it’s all worth it. Every lake is different — you might find shallow shoals where you can watch fish cruise by on their search for food, or it might be steep drop-offs and deep holes. What they all have in common is spectacular scenery, often complete with local wildlife, to enjoy as you wait for your next bite.
One thing’s for sure though, whoever said “There’s no bad weather, only bad gear,” has definitely spent time in the Cariboo. Having good rain gear is essential to any outdoor activities here. Our first day on the water was a real demonstration of the volatility of spring weather. We were hailed on, then treated to a respite of blue skies and sun before another round of downpour started. It was the kind of day that made me very happy to come back to a toasty warm RV where we could properly dry out our clothes.
The Camping
Another benefit is coming home to a well-stocked beer fridge. One downfall to almost every RV is the size of the fridge. This can be especially difficult when you’re at a site far from civilization and the nearest grocery store. One of the best tips I’ve ever gotten for setting up a comfortable site is to bring a small bar fridge for your beer. Of course, this does require electrical hookups, but like I said — this RV thing does have its benefits!
Filling that beer fridge is open for debate: do you bring your tried-and-true favourites from home or hit up a local brewery or liquor store near your destination? Again, I like to go with a combination. Bring some of your favourite brews to guarantee that you’ll have a tasty beverage to enjoy as you’re getting set up, and then explore the local craft landscape to find a new favourite that you might not have at home. I also highly recommend going with a range of beer styles. Sunny day? Grab that crisp, refreshing lager or Pilsner. Caught the biggest fish of your life? Celebrate with a delightfully hoppy IPA. Looking to warm up after a chilly day? This calls for a stout. And this week, I’ve definitely found a reason — and a brew — for each of those.
And I have to say, the increase in genuinely tasty non-alcoholic options has been a game changer. No more arguments about who is driving to and from the fishing destination each day. We can fill our boat coolers with tasty brews, or grab a couple to take on a quad ride.
Members of the BC Ale Trail are committed to ensuring their beers are promoted and enjoyed responsibly, by those adults who choose to consume them. No one should drink alcohol, even in moderation, before operating a motor vehicle or engaging in other activities that involve attention and skill or physical risk. BC’s craft breweries now produce a variety of non-alcoholic beer and beverage options.
One drawback to camping over the May long weekend for hockey fans is missing out on playoff games. This year, thanks to modern technology and one very determined and dedicated Canucks fan, we went a little overboard. An old TV that was recently replaced by a newer model, plus a streaming subscription and satellite wi-fi meant that we hosted almost our whole group for the Canucks-Oilers games on Saturday and Monday. A little ridiculous? Yes. A lot of fun and awesome memories for the kids (big and small)? Also yes.
The key part to any camping trip, as I have found over and over again, is the people you surround yourself with. The laughter, good vibes, and memories are worth more than any other vacation ever could add up to. I carry childhood camping memories with me to this day, and am so honoured to be a part of creating those memories for the next generation. Although, my cheeks do need a good rest when I get home. Too much laughter can be tiring!
The Beer
That previously mentioned Cariboo weather really came into play for us one day this week. The steady drizzle-downpour-drizzle cycle was not showing any signs of abating. A few die-hard anglers went out regardless, but it was cold and wet enough to keep quite a few of us inside. And no matter how comfortable your RV or cabin might be, staying cooped up in it all day can be a bore. You can only play so many card games before questioning all of the choices that have led to you hiding in an RV while Mother Nature reminds you who is in charge.
The solution? Head to the local brewery!
Cask and Cleaver Brewing is just a short 15-minute drive from the resort, so we loaded up a few vehicles and headed into 100 Mile House. The brewery is a small one, run by owners Dan and Neale. Having the folks behind the brews serving them up gave us a unique perspective, and lots of valuable insight to the brews.
The tap list is small but mighty, offering a range of beers that appealed to everyone in the group. And for our designated drivers: tasty non-alcoholic options.
It’s a cozy tasting room, but very welcoming. Neale was behind the bar, and he and the chef were looking after the tasting room. Neale recommended flight choices to the folks who aren’t really big beer aficionados, and some great discussions about flavours and what we all enjoyed ensued. A couple of the girls who joined me for the evening were adamant that I include a wholehearted endorsement of the Pineapple Vanilla Sour — it was tasty and crushable — and Neale informed us that their summer seasonal sours (like the soon-to-return Strawberry Cheesecake Sour) often outsell their staple lager.
A good lager or other light beer style is must in a small community that isn’t fully accustomed to craft beer just yet, as Neale explained to us. And brewer Dan has nailed the lager. So much so that one of the girls took a growler back to the campsite to enjoy with tomorrow’s planned pizza night (if it lasts that long… the jury is out on that).
On the day before — the holiday Monday when the brewery was closed — we happened to drive past on our way back from the lake we were fishing, and we had noticed someone at the brewery manning the smoker on the front porch. Sure enough, on our visit we were not disappointed with the house-smoked beef barbacoa tacos (the weekly special), topped with house-made slaw and cilantro crema. The pulled pork sandwiches were equally tempting when we saw them go by to another table. We asked about a couple of menu items, and let me tell you that Cask and Cleaver prides itself on things being made in-house and to order. I was warned that the tacos might be a bit spicy, but not overwhelming, and they nailed it. So much flavour, but not too much spice for me, and I’ll be the first to tell you I am a wimp when it comes to heat! It was a delicious meal that I would go back for again and again, especially when paired with delightful brews.
We enjoyed a wonderful afternoon reprieve from the rain with so much laughter and tasty treats, and I know that many members of our group are likely to stop in again in years to come.
For us, Highway 24 in the Cariboo really has it all: the perfect RV and camping spots, incredible fishing opportunities, and craft beers right around the corner. What more could a girl ask for on her holiday?
No matter where your next ale-venture takes you, or how you choose to camp, remember:
Don’t Love it to Death
Disrespectful, negligent, and inconsiderate behaviour is threatening the places we love. Having access to beautiful spaces and vibrant communities is a privilege—one we will lose if we don’t change our ways. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and do something about it. (That means you too, locals and residents).
We are all guests on these lands and waters. Respect the people, wildlife, natural spaces, and communities by exploring mindfully. Don’t love it to death.
Stay up to Date With Fire Bans and Restrictions
Many areas of BC have been affected by devastating wildfires over recent years. Do your part to practice campfire safety, and be aware of any bans or restrictions when travelling.
The BC Public Service website explains: “The decision when or where to implement a fire ban is made by the regional fire centres depending on local fire hazards or dangers, the type of weather conditions forecasted and the type and level of fire activity occurring.” Stay up to date with current conditions or download the free BC Wildfire Service app for updates as you go.
Explore More Camping Spots in BC
Super Camping Guide: Find private campgrounds. Be sure to check out the Super Camping BC app.
Go Camping BC: Your resource for all BC parks and camping sites.
