Beautiful Porteau Bay near Vancouver, BC. Photo by andy_c.
Even though Washington State has plenty to offer to the outdoor enthusiast, there is even more to experience with our neighbors to the north. British Columbia may get overlooked when planning weekend camping trips, however it is only a couple hours from Seattle and unfolds new cultures and terrain. Porteau Cove Provincial Park is one of many Provincial Parks in Canada that has something for everyone.
Located only 38 km north of Vancouver, B.C. on Highway 99 this park features a scuba diving area that contains a series of man made reefs and sunken ships that are marked by buoys. Depths vary from 20 to 60 feet. Marine life can be spotted as various types have made the area it’s home. Diving from a boat is prohibited. Steps leading down to the waters edge are recommended to access the nearby scuba park.
Other activities include canoeing or kayaking in the cove, bicycling on roadways and trials and fishing outside the park area. A nearby trail provides a view of Porteau Cove and the Howe Sound. Windsurfing is another popular activity in Howe Sound. A launch area known as the “Spit” can be found in nearby Squamish for windsurfing. Swimming is available from the park but shoes are recommended due to the rocky pebble beaches. No lifeguards are on duty.
Vehicle accessible camping is available though reservations are recommended due to this park’s popularity. Cost is $24 a night. Campfires are allowed and drinking water, showers and flush toilets are available. A boat launch is also available to check out the rest of the Howe Sound though no boats are allowed in the diving park.
Although located in the wilderness this park is also close to Vancouver, offering more sightseeing options for the U.S. resident.
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