We escaped to Skimikin Lake for a few days despite the smoky skies. We had our daughter’s dog Rufuss to keep us company. Earlier this year we checked out this area and could not believe the devastation. This was first caused by flooding followed by some severe wind storms. The site operator and volunteers did an amazing job of cleaning up. There is still more work to be done but they will have to hold off until later in the year with the constant threat of fires.
We were fortunate to get into our favourite camping spot which is shaded on three sides by cedar trees and opens out to the lake. 
When we first arrived the lake was very much engulfed in smoke due to the Mt. Chase fire just 10 km away. Luckily though the wind changed direction and we had periods of blue sky. The first evening the sun was bright red which created this hazy orange glow across the lake and surrounding hillside.
As the water level is still pretty high there were only a few wildflowers to photograph. I was entertained by a trio of ducklings that were happily perched on a log. Of course, I always love to see the loons; their call always reminds me of the film “On Golden Pond”.
We certainly welcomed the cool breezes from the lake and enjoyed kayaking. My husband was not too successful with fishing; the water was too warm so he says! Camping always gives me an opportunity to truly wind down and actually read a book. We also spent time with long-time friends remembering special people in our lives who sadly are no longer with us. Rufuss of course enjoyed the many walks and cooling off in the lake.
Another successful camping trip. Hope it will not be too long before we can come here again.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/Skimikin-Forestry-Campsite