Use the Search Bar for quick access to answers >>>>>

Getting Here & Getting Around

How do I get to Skands Campground?

Our address is 64 Johnson Road, Christina Lake, BC

Christina Lake and the Boundary Region are gifted with an abundance of wildlife, which requires extra caution when driving in the area, especially at dusk or at night. Be on the lookout for movement on or at the sides of the road, and approach slowly as wildlife can be unpredictable.

From Spokane And Points South

Travel North along Highway #395/U.S. 395 to the U.S. Canada border at Cascade/Laurier crossing. Continue on Highway #395/U.S. 395 to the junction of Highway #3 . Turn right onto Highway #3 and continue down the hill into the townsite of Christina Lake. Continue driving on the highway approximately 2 km (3 minutes) until you reach the head of Johnson Road. Turn left off the highway and onto Johnson Road. Drive 400 metres and you will arrive at the driveway to Skands Campground. See the Border Crossings page for customs hours, documentation requirements and traveler info.

From Rossland/Castlegar And Points East

Travel West along Highway #3 West. You will arrive at the Mid point of the Lake. Continue to travel another 5.7 kms (approx. 4 minutes) to the head of Johnson Road. Turn right off the highway and onto Johnson Road. Drive 400 metres and you will arrive at the driveway to Skands Campground.

From Grand Forks And Points West

Travel East along Highway #3 East to Christina Lake. You will arrive at the south end of Christina Lake and at the town site. Continue driving on the highway for approximately 2 km (3 minutes) until you reach the head of Johnson Road. Turn left off the highway and onto Johnson Road. Drive 400 metres and you will arrive at the driveway to Skands Campground.

How do I get to Christina Lake?

Airports:

• Grand Forks Airport

• Spokane International Airport

• West Kootenay Regional Airport (Castlegar)

• Kelowna Airport

Car Rentals - closest car rentals are in Trail or Kelowna:

Trail:

• Practicar

Kelowna:

• Enterprise

• Budget

• Hertz

Bus Lines:

• Mountain Man Mike’s

Border Crossings:

This is general information only, refer to CBSA website for more details and closures:

• Christina Lake - Cascade/Laurier 8am – 8pm

• Grand Forks - Carson/Danville 8am – 8pm

• Osoyoos - Osoyoos/Oroville open 24 hours

• Rossland - Paterson/Frontier open 24 hours

• Trail - Waneta/Boundary 9am – 5pm

• Salmo/Nelson - Nelway/Metaline Falls 8am – 8pm

• Creston - Rykerts/Porthill 8am – midnight/11pm Mid Mar-Nov

Where do I find the current road conditions?

DriveBC provides current road conditions for highways within the Province of BC. Click here for the Christina Lake highway cam, looking northwest on Highway #3 at East Lake Drive. Click here for current road and weather conditions in Washington State. Or call 1-800-550-4997 for current highway conditions.

If you need any help along the way, contact guest services by phone, text, email, or WhatsApp.

How far is Skands Campground from Christina Lake?

Our campground is in a central location on the East side of the lake and we have a private beach for guests. All campsites have close proximately to the lake. The furthest site being only 210 metres from the lakefront. There are a few other public beaches in the area

How do I get around in Christina Lake if I don’t want to drive?

Most places at the lake are within walking or biking distance, unless you wanted to explore the surrounding area. However, to get to Christina Lake, you would need a vehicle or transportation service. Bicycles can be rented from Wild Ways to get around in town.

Check out Tourism Christina Lake’s guide to getting around Christina Lake here or pop into the Visitor Centre.

Can I make a reservation online?

Yes, reservations are made online through the Campspot platform. By clicking on the BOOK NOW links on our website, you will be taken to the Campspot booking platform. Here is the link for your convenience

When are you open for booking?

Our complete booking season runs from April 1 to September 30th. Booking for 2024 season is as follows:

• Low Season - May 1 - June 21, September 3 - September 30** (Disclaimer: End of season date is subject to change)

• Shoulder Season - June 22 - June 28, August 24 - September 2

• High Season - June 29 - August 23

Legacy guests can secure their next year’s stay upon check-out. General booking for campsites for the next calendar year opens on November 1st. General booking for RV Rentals TBA at a later date.

Is there a minimum # of nights stay?

Semi-Service Sites -

• From July 6 - August 24) there is a 7-night minimum for site rentals. Check-in is only on Saturdays, Check-out on Saturdays. However, during this period, sometimes we have people check out early and can accommodate last-minute short stays. Best to check the site or contact guest services by phone, text, email, or WhatsApp.

• Outside of the dates above, there is no minimum number of nights.

RV Rentals -

• From July 6 - August 24) there is a 7-night minimum for RV rentals and check-in is only on Saturdays, checking out on Saturdays. However, during this period, sometimes we have people check out early and can accommodate last-minute short stays. Best to check the site or email us.

• Outside of high season, for RV rentals, we have a 3-night minimum.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-out is 11 a.m.

Check-in:

Semi-Serviced Campsites: 2 p.m.

RV Rentals: 4 p.m.

If I arrive after your office is closed, do you offer late check-in?

Yes, we can coordinate a late check-in. We’ll leave a package at the office for your arrival. If you need to reach someone, call our on-call staff member

Do you offer early check-in? Or late check-out?

This depends on if your site is ready and if we have someone checking in after you.

Contact guest services by phone, text, email, WhatsApp or by sending a message on our social media channels > Instagram and Facebook

Do you offer group discounts for reservations?

No, but we will do our best to try to get you sites together.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Please see our cancellation policy here.

Do you offer refunds?

Please see our refund policy here.

What is the best way to contact Skands Campground?

Bookings are made through the link on our website here. It will have the most up-to-date information on availability. You can also email us.

For non-reservation inquiries, you can get in touch with us through many different channels. During the regular season, the simplest and quickest way to contact one of our guest services team members is by phone, text, email, WhatsApp or by sending a message on our social media channels > Instagram and Facebook. Social media channels may have a slight delay. You can also email us with any inquiries. Note that will during our off-season, there may be a delay as messages are not checked every day.

Feel free to reach out to us on our social media pages - Facebook and Instagram - as well!

Can I tent in an RV site?

All our semi-serviced sites are interchangeable with RV or Tent. We do not have any unserviced sites.

What if I want to change sites?

Each site has been carefully assigned, but if you're considering moving, please touch base with the park host first to find out if the site is available.

Is there a parking area for guests?

Each site comes with parking for 1 vehicle. There is limited additional visitor parking by the office, as well as parking on the public roads surrounding the campground. For more details, see our Terms and Conditions.

Are there showers?

Of course! We have a large bathroom facility with four hot showers (2 Mens & 2 Women’s) that are offered free of charge. Soap and towels are not supplied. Please be respectful of those waiting behind you and limit your showers to 5 minutes.

Does Christina Lake have good cell reception?

During busy Summer periods, the cell service has been quite poor. Rogers and Telus being equally bad. Unfortunately, there is little that we can do as a business to change this. A second tower was approved for installation 2 years ago at the top of Fife Road, the mountain directly behind us. The site has been now been prepped. We are hoping that installation will be complete by Summer 2025, but not confirmed. We will update this space once we have confirmation.

Is there a restaurant onsite?

There is no restaurant onsite, however there is a general store (Tempo) with many camping essentials within a 12 minute walk, and a larger grocery (Huckleberry Market), a 20 minute walk or a short drive. There is a restaurant at the top of the road, a short walk from the campground, The Kool Treat, as well as other restaurants at the lake. See the Explore section of our website for a full listing of dining options.

Do you provide Wifi and how strong is it?

We do. Wifi is included for our guests throughout the campground (but we sincerely hope you’re too busy having fun to even think about using it). You will receive the wifi password upon check-in.

Our wifi is not designed for streaming but you can get your most of your essentials done - emails, web browsing and non-streaming apps. Note that during busy hours and busy times of year, especially mornings and evenings, when more people are online, the bandwidth and signal is sometimes poor. We are working to fix this. For campers that depend on cell service for remote work, some will invest in their own Starlink units to guarantee a strong, consistent signal. At this time, we cannot guarantee a strong and consistent signal.

Do you have facilities for group gatherings or events?

No, however, if campers want to gather on the grassy area, they are welcome to. For big groups, please check with us first.

What size are your utility connections?

Our power connections are set for 30 amp RV plug-ins and our water connections are standard, 1/2 inch hose hook-ups. Ensure that you bring an adequate cord (20ft) and hose (30ft) for hook-up.

Do you have a dump station for RV’s?

Note that our seasonal sites do not have full sani hook-up. Only our permanent sites have sani hook-ups. We have a sani-dump onsite and a portable honey wagon. Most people dump once when they come in and again when they leave. On check out days, sometimes there can be a line-up to use the sani-dump station, so if you are in a hurry to exit, please plan accordingly.

If you would like a sani-dump service, please contact Art to arrange.

Is there a designated swimming area in the lake?

Yes, we have a designated swimming area with a boundary that is marked by buoys. There is a swim dock within this area. There is no diving off of the dock. Swim at your own risk and keep an eye on small children. There is no lifeguard on duty. See all beach area rules here.

Please do not swim in the boat area or jump off the boat docks. 

Do you have a laundry facility on-site?

Yes, we have a laundry facility with coin-operated washing and drying machines. Laundry Room hours are from 8am to 9pm, with the last load in by 8pm.

Please refer to all laundry room rules here.

Are there picnic areas available for guests?

Each site comes with a picnic table. There is a grassy picnic area close to the beach, but you have to bring your own seating.

Is there a playground for children?

We don’t have a playground onsite, but trust us when we say that we’ve never had a problem entertaining the kiddos at Skands. But if you’re looking for a change of scenery, Christina Lake has several playgrounds for kids to enjoy. Situated on Park Road adjacent to the tennis courts and across the street from the ball diamond, the Christina Lake Community Playground has plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained including a tire set, a new adventure center and ample space to run around, in a fenced area for safety.

Other children’s facilities around the Lake include a newly developed Bike Pump Park for budding bike enthusiasts, as well as an outdoor exercise park and Pickleball Courts. Two blocks away at 49 West Lake Drive, the Christina Lake Elementary School also has a new adventure centre, with lots of open space for soccer and outdoor fun. 

Behind the Welcome Centre, adjacent to the nature park, just off of Hwy #3, is a small playground with a slide and swing, perfect for a quick play and pit stop along your travels.

Is alcohol allowed on the campground?

Alcohol is permitted in individual campsites, as well as at the beach and grassy area. Please be discreet.

Can I have visitors during my stay?

Yes, you are welcome to have day visitors. They must register and pay a fee at the time of arrival.

Day visitors are allowed from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Overnight visitors must depart by 11:00 a.m. Please let the park host know if you plan to have visitors.

Do you have designated quiet hours?

Rest time is from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. If noise levels disturb the peace during this period, we might need to address it.

Are fires allowed on the beach?

Unfortunately, no. We love a beach fire too, but bylaw prohibits fires on Christina Lake. You can use propane fire bowls in your site, or depending on seasonal fire bans, use our communal fire pit located at the grassy area in front of the beach.

Are fires allowed at your site?

You can use propane fire bowls at your site, or depending on seasonal fire bans, use our communal fire pit at the grassy area in front of the beach.

Can we collect firewood from the forest?

No. Please do not take any wood from the forest, as our ecosystem cannot support it.

Can I use my drone?

Yes, as long as it does not encroach on the privacy of other campers and complies with Transport Canada requirements - be prepared to show us your valid drone pilot certificate and drone registration issued by Transport Canada (for drones 250g and greater)

How about fireworks? Are they allowed?

No, fireworks are prohibited unless you have a fireworks license and have been granted permission by management. The forested area is especially sensitive to fire during dry times of the year.

Can we use generators?

All our sites are fully serviced, including 30 amp electrical. If needed, generators can be used only between the hours of 9am and 9pm.

Is Skands Campground pet-friendly?

Pets are welcome at Skands Campground! However, please keep in mind that a busy campground can be a stressful environment for your pets, especially during peak seasons when it's crowded. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both your pet and other campers, please follow these guidelines:

• Keep your pet on leash at all times. This helps prevent them from wandering off or bothering other campers.

• Clean up after your pet. This is essential for maintaining a clean and safe environment for everyone. No one likes stepping in or smelling 💩. Please dispose of dog waste in the dumpster, not at your campsite or washroom facilities.

• Keep your pet cool and hydrated. During hot summer months, temperatures can rise significantly. We’ve even been seeing days where the temps top 40 degrees. Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water and shade. When taking your dog to the lake to cool down, please do not cut through the lawn or beach area. Instead, to access the dog beach, please exit the property on Johnson Road and walk down to the foot of the road. See more tips and tricks to keep your pet cool here.

• Avoid excessive barking. Excessive barking can disturb other campers. If your pet is prone to barking, consider leaving them at home, be able to provide them with a quiet space and consider using a humane bark collar. The campground can get busy with people and other dogs, which can be a reactive environment for dogs.

• Respect other campers. Please be mindful of other campers, especially those with pet allergies or sensitivities.

• Consider your pet's temperament. If your pet is not comfortable around children or other animals, it may be best to leave them at home. Our campground is a family-friendly destination with many children running around.

• Keep pets off common lawn and beach areas. We have a designated dog beach at the foot of Johnson Road. Please exit the campground on Johnson Road to access the dog beach. Do not cut through the beach or lawn areas. Please see our pets page for more information.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

For medical emergencies, contact 911. For minor injuries, there is a medical clinic (250-447-6262) in Christina Lake, or the nearest hospital is Boundary Hospital in Grand Forks, 20 minutes away (25km)

Non-Emergency calls: 250-447-6611

Is there a gas station in Christina Lake?

There are two gas stations in Christina Lake. Canco and Tempo. There is also a marine gas station at Christina Lake Marina.

Is there an ATM in Christina Lake?

There is a private ATM inside Tempo.

The nearest bank ATM is in Grand Forks (CIBC, Grand Forks Credit Union)

Where can I buy propane or get propane tanks refilled?

Small canisters of propane can be purchased at Tempo or Christina Lake Marina

Propane tanks can be refilled at Canco or Christina Lake Marina

Is there a grocery store nearby? How about a liquor store?

There is a general store (Tempo) with many camping essentials within a 12 minute walk. For a more diverse selection of groceries we would recommend the Huckleberry Mountain Market, which is a 20 minute walk or a short drive. You can purchase alcohol at both Tempo and Huckleberry.

What’s the wildlife situation? Specifically, what about bears?

One of the many beauties of Christina Lake is that wildlife is abundant in the area. That includes black bears. And because “a fed bear is a dead bear,” all food must be packed away properly, and all sites must be kept clean, in order to protect local wildlife. Refer to BC Parks and Wildlife on what to do if you encounter a bear. We live in bear country, so you can expect them to be around. Generally, we don’t have issues with them coming inside the campground and we have never had a camper have a run-in with any bears while camping onsite.

Raccoons, now that’s a different story. They are persistent and will get into garbage and food if it is not properly stored…and they will tell all their friends!

What temperature is the lake?

You’re in luck. The water temperature of Christina Lake averages 22 degrees Celsius (71F) in the summer, making it the warmest tree-lined lake in B.C.

Are there nearby attractions or points of interest?

Refer to the Explore section of our website for activities in the local area.

Also checkout the Tourism Christina Lake website or visit the Welcome Centre for more information on the local area.  Or give them a call (250) 447-6161

Where can I find information about local events and festivals?

Stay tuned to our Events page and our social media pages. Instagram and Facebook or visit Christina Lake’s Tourism site.

What can I expect the weather to be like?

It’s hard to predict what a season will be like, so it is best to do a little forecast planning, closer to the date of your departure. Check out the Weather Network for more information.

In general, Christina Lake experiences warm and dry summers, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 33°C (64 to 90°F). However, more recently we have seen temperatures spike to 38-40° on some high summer days. Mid-summer often sees temperatures well into the 30s. Winters are relatively mild, with an average temperature range of -8 to -2°C (17 to 28°F).

The region receives an average annual rainfall of 42cm (16.5 inches), while southern valleys bask in over 2000 hours of sunshine each year. The yearly snowfall averages 44cm (17.3 inches). Notably, the water temperature of Christina Lake maintains an average of 22 degrees Celsius (71°F) in the summer, earning it the distinction of being the warmest tree-lined lake in BC.

How can I secure my valuables, like bikes, while at the campground?

Thefts are rare, but they do happen. Skands is not responsible for any lost or stolen goods. Please store valuables away out of sight and lock up bikes in your camping area.

Is there a safe available for securing valuables?

No. You are responsible for securing your own valuables

What recreational activities are available at the campground?

Onsite we have swimming, horseshoes, and cornhole. Please see our Explore section for activities in and around Christina Lake, or visit the Christina Lake Tourism’s Welcome Centre or website.

Can I fish in the lake?

Oh definitely! Christina Lake has a well-earned reputation amongst anglers. It is the premier spot to land rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, large and smallmouth bass, whitefish, and burbot in either summer or winter.  More information can be found on Angler’s Atlas, Western Canadian Fishing, or Fishing With Rod.

Fishing Tackle and live bait are available at the Christina Lake Marina, Tempo Lakeside General Store, Christina Lake Canco and The Sand Dollar Store. Fishing licenses can be purchased online.

Are there boat launch facilities at Christina Lake?

Yes. There are two public boat launches located off East Lake Drive, one at the Christina Lake Marina, where boat and equipment rentals are available, the other at Texas Point near the entrance to Gladstone Provincial Park. You can also go to Schulli Resort for a fee.

Is there somewhere to rent a boat? Paddleboard? Kayak? Bikes?

Yes! Wildways Adventure Sports and Rentals is conveniently located at the top of Johnson Road 400 metres away. They offer daily and weekly rentals of Mountain bikes, Cruiser bikes, kayaks and paddleboards. They also offer guided tours.

Power Boats and Jet Skis can be rented from Christina Lake Marina. They also rent watersports equipment and offer guided wake surf and wake surf lessons. 

Is there boat moorage available at Skands Campground?

Yes, we offer a limited number of bookable boat slips. Book boat moorage by call/text/Whatsapp or email. Book early to avoid disappointment. More information on Boat Moorage at Skands can be found here. Information on Boating excursions in Christina Lake can be found here.

Are there hiking or biking trails nearby?

Yes to both! Christina Lake offers some wonderful hiking and biking trails for all levels. Check out the Explore section of our site for more information.

We recommend Trailforks for comprehensive information on mountain biking, e-bike and hiking trails. Everything from ratings, whether the trail is easy or hard, conditions and much more!

Also refer to Christina Lake Tourism,  All Trails, or West Kootenay Hiking for trail maps.

How many people does a rental RV sleep?

All RV’s sleep a maximum of 6 people (2 adults and up to 5 kids)

Does the Onsite Rental RV have plumbing?

All the Onsite Rental RV’s have hot and cold water, as well as flushable toilets that empty into a holding tank.

To avoid clogging the pipes, flush only toilet paper. Do not flush any feminine hygiene products or flushable wipes.

Your RV Rental includes one free sani-dump. Any other sani-dumps are your responsibility. We have an onsite sani-dump station for your convenience or you can pay a fee to have it serviced, which can coordinated with staff onsite.

Do Skands Onsite Rental RV’s have heat and A/C?

Yes, all Onsite Rental RV’s have heat and air conditioning.

Do Skands Onsite Rental RV’s have power?

Yes, all Onsite Rental RV’s are connected to power.

Can I have pets in the Onsite Rental RV?

Sorry, there are no pets allowed in the Rental RV’s at this time.

Can I smoke in the Onsite Rental RV?

There is absolutely no smoking in or outside of the Rental RV’s. Anyone caught smoking in the Rental RV will be subject to an extra $100 cleaning fee.

What is the minimum number of nights I can book the Onsite Rental RV?

In high season, Rental RV’s have a 7 night minimum, Saturday to Saturday. Outside of high-season, Rental RV’s have a 3 night minimum.

Does the Onsite Rental RV have a daily cleaning service like a hotel?

When you check-in, your rental RV will be clean. It will not be cleaned again until you check-out. If you require additional cleaning, mid-stay, it can be arranged for a fee. Please contact staff on-site. Upon check-out