Buttle Lake Campground

Highway 28 winds west from Campbell River directly into the dense forests of Strathcona Provincial Park. Here, a large vehicle-accessible camping area sits right against the water. The sites rest under a canopy of old-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar, providing deep shade during the summer months.

Hikers and paddlers use Buttle Lake Campground as a primary basecamp before heading into the island's mountainous interior. The water stretches for over 30 kilometres, drawing kayakers, canoeists, and anglers targeting cutthroat trout. A paved boat launch gives direct access to the surface.

Nearby trailheads lead to waterfalls and alpine ridges. Short walks like the Lupin Falls loop take just a few minutes, while serious mountaineers use this area to stage multi-day trips up the Golden Hinde.