Sugar Lake


Places of Interest, Wild Flowers, Wildlife / Sunday, June 25th, 2017

Sugar Lake is a hidden gem. We were unable to camp at our usual forestry recreation site, Skimikin Lake, due to flooding in the area.  Although some work has been done to reclaim the campsites, we knew that the mosquitoes would be unbearable.  On the recommendation of my daughter and family, we thought we would give this recreation camping area a try.  It was certainly well worth it and we will most definitely visit again.

We ventured out to Cherryville and apart from the last section of Sugar Lake road, the area was easily accessible.  There were large pot holes due to recent rainfalls.  With a large 5th wheel, we just took it gently.  The lake has been created by a dam linked with hydro and is very well stocked with fish.  The campsites are all managed by Elaine and Jules Durette and I have to say they do a wonderful job.  There are about 50 sites in all according to the hosts.

Dog Beach

We were fortunate to get a spot right by the lake with steps down to a beach . It was lovely early morning sitting on a log sipping coffee and looking at the views.  It’s a great lake for kayaking but you do have to be careful as the wind can whip up pretty quickly.   They also allow power boats but I think it is more geared for small fishing boats and kayaks.  

As ever, I took a wander around the area and discovered many different wildflowers.  I also startled a deer during one of my walks.   The camp host mentioned that only days before a moose had come into the campsite.  I am not so sure if I would be happy encountering the moose but it would have been interesting to see from a distance.

Orange Dandelion
Native dogwood
Wild Honeysuckle
Wild Lupine
Wild Tiger Lily

 

There was no cell service in this area but I thought this was a good thing.  My husband and I were able to sit down and actually read a book which we rarely do these days.  It was good to have a break from social media apps.  There is a convenience store about 15 to 20 mins away which comes in very handy.  Beautiful scenery surrounding the road in with verdant green hills and meadows.  I couldn’t help take a photo of a rustic cabin surrounded by wildflowers, mainly the orange dandelion.

There is some history to this area.  Apparently back in the early 1900’s there was a lodge and resort which catered to the more wealthy folk of Vernon who would come out and vacation here.  

Another camping spot added to our list.  

 

 

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