This picturesque lake offers a perfect escape for those looking to cast a line, paddle calm waters, or simply relax by a campfire under a vast, starry sky.
Bluey Lake is a popular, rustic destination for camping and fishing. While often associated with the nearby Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park, it is a separate B.C. Recreation Site located just south of the park’s boundary. Its stunning turquoise water and serene environment make it a sought-after location for outdoor enthusiasts.
The peak season to visit Bluey Lake is during the summer months of July and August when the weather is warm and dry, however, this is also the busiest time, and the limited first-come, first-served campsites fill up very quickly, especially on weekends.
For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, the shoulder seasons offer a quieter experience. In the spring (May-June), the landscape is beautifully green, though the lake is cold and the access road can be muddy. Autumn (September-Early October) is a spectacular time with fewer people, vibrant fall colors, and excellent fishing, but visitors should be prepared for cold nights.
During the winter, Bluey Lake is inaccessible by vehicle. The road leading to the lake is not maintained and becomes impassable due to heavy snow, only reopening once the snow melts in the late spring.
Camping:
Nestled in a shaded Douglas fir forest, this recently enhanced site offers a rustic camping experience with 13 designated pads, each for up to six people, these sites are first-come, first-served, so arrive early to secure your spot. To protect the area, camping is strictly restricted to these pads and is prohibited in day-use or parking areas. There is no potable water, so all campers must bring their own supply for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Access to the site is via a narrow and rough road, which makes it most suitable for tenters, truck campers, and small trailers with high clearance. The campsite pads themselves are not large, and due to the challenging access, the site is not recommended for large trailers or motorhomes.
Recreation:
– Fishing: The lake is a popular destination for anglers. It is regularly stocked with Rainbow Trout, making it a rewarding spot for both novice and experienced fishers. Trolling with a small boat, fly fishing from a float tube, or simply casting from the shore can all yield success.
– Paddling: The calm, clear waters of Bluey Lake are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. It’s easy to get on the water and explore the lake’s quiet bays. A fun paddle route along the lakes edge can be found on AllTrails.
– Swimming: The crystal-clear lake is inviting for a refreshing swim on warm summer days.
– Hiking: While Bluey Lake itself is primarily focused on lakeside recreation, the adjacent Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park offers excellent hiking opportunities. The most notable trail is a family-friendly 4.3 km loop trail that circumnavigates the equally stunning Kentucky Lake. This easy trail offers beautiful views of the turquoise water and surrounding grasslands and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.
Lake Stats:
Bluey Lake has a surface area of approximately 27 to 29 hectares (about 67 to 72 acres), and the distance around the shoreline of the lake is 4.2 kilometers (about 2.6 miles).
The average depth of the lake is approximately 39 feet (12 meters) with a maximum depth of 62 feet (19 meters).
The Color:
The vibrant turquoise or blue-green color of Bluey Lake, much like its neighbors Kentucky and Alleyne, is a result of its geology and water composition. While some lakes get their color from glacial flour, the clarity of Bluey Lake suggests its color is primarily due to a high concentration of dissolved limestone or calcium carbonate. These fine particles reflect the blue and green wavelengths of light, giving the water its brilliant, jewel-like appearance, especially on a sunny day.
Getting There:
Just before you reach the official park gate, you will see a turn on your right. This is the Bluey Lake Forest Service Road (FSR).
