As Kamloops’ real estate team, which has been working and living in the city for decades, we understand that choosing a new place to call home is about more than just finding the perfect house—it’s about finding the perfect community. Kamloops is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle, and there’s no better way to experience this than through its incredible parks. There are 86 parks in Kamloops, ranging from the biggest municipal park in BC to simple green spaces within the city. We can’t cover them all here, but in this post we’ll explore the top highlights of the biggest parks in Kamloops, showcasing why this city is a fantastic place to live.
Scenic Views and Hiking Trails
Kamloops is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of scenic views and hiking trails. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid hiker, you’ll find a trail that suits your pace.
- Kenna Cartwright Nature Park: With over 800 hectares, the largest municipal park in BC boasts an extensive trail network that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Peterson Creek Park: Known for its picturesque hiking trails, this park features a beautiful waterfall and diverse plant life.
- Valleyview Nature Park: Explore its hiking and biking trails while learning about local flora and fauna through educational signage.
Family-Friendly Activities
Kamloops offers numerous parks with activities that cater to families, ensuring fun and engaging experiences for all ages.
- Riverside Park: This central hub features a riverfront beach, water park, playgrounds, and tennis and pickleball courts, making it ideal for family outings.
- Albert McGowan Park: With a water park, playground, sports fields, and a community center, this park is perfect for families with young children.
- Pioneer Park: A sandy beach, picnic areas, and a dog-friendly zone ensure fun for the whole family, including your furry friends.
- McDonald Park: Decorative basketball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, a playground, a waterpark, a community garden, and a large greenspace for family activities.
- Westsyde Centennial Park: This unique park offers a playground, a water park, an outdoor hockey rink (ice rink in winter), baseball and soccer fields, lots of greenspace, and the Little Farmer’s Zoo.
Sports and Recreation
For those who love to stay active, Kamloops’ parks provide a wide range of sports and recreational facilities.
- McArthur Island Park: This sports haven includes sports fields, ice rinks, a golf course, BMX track, and a skate park.
- Overlander Park: Offers sports fields and easy access to the North Thompson River for kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Brocklehurst Park: Along with a playground, you’ll find an outdoor pool, full-size soccer field, tennis courts, and an ice rink.
Nature and Wildlife
If connecting with nature and observing wildlife is your passion, Kamloops has parks that offer serene environments and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Kenna Cartwright Nature Park: Apart from its trails, it’s a great spot for wildlife viewing and enjoying nature’s tranquility.
- Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park: This park is perfect for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts, offering peaceful trails and rich natural landscapes.
- Pineview Valley Park: Features a pond and open green spaces, making it a tranquil spot for relaxation and nature walks.
Riverfront Relaxation
Enjoy the calming presence of the river in Kamloops’ parks that offer riverfront access and related activities.
- Riverside Park: The riverfront beach and picnic areas provide a perfect setting for relaxing by the water.
- Overlander Park: Offers beach access and a boat launch for easy enjoyment of water activities on the North Thompson River.
- Pioneer Park: In addition to its sandy beach and picnic areas, Pioneer Park has a designated boat launch area, making it an excellent spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The calm waters are perfect for a relaxing day on the river, whether you’re paddling, swimming, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. As one of the few dog-friendly parks in Kamloops, your furry friend will enjoy this park too!
Your Future in Kamloops Awaits
Kamloops’ parks are more than just green spaces; they are vibrant centers of community life and natural beauty. Whether you’re into hiking, family activities, sports, or simply enjoying nature, Kamloops has a park that will meet your needs. Discover the highlights that make Kamloops a great place to move to, and imagine yourself enjoying these fantastic outdoor spaces in your new home. Visit the Team110 blog regularly for more insights and tips on making the most of your life in Kamloops.
