The Ultimate Bluey Lake Gear Guide: everything you need for an epic weekend on the water
If you’ve read my past posts about camping and paddleboarding at Bluey Lake, you already know it’s one of my favourite hidden gems in BC. Whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for another magical weekend under the stars, having the right gear can make all the difference between a good trip and a great one.
Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned our setup to match Bluey’s unique terrain—remote access, shimmery blue water, exposed campsites, and peaceful, paddle-perfect mornings. This guide is packed with our family’s go-to recommendations, all tested at Bluey Lake and other off-grid BC spots.
Bluey Lake Rec Site, BC
First Things First: How to Get to Bluey Lake
Bluey Lake is located just outside of Merritt, BC—an easy drive from both the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan. You’ll follow a forest service road (FSR) for the last stretch, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Find full directions, driving tips, and campsite beta in my original Bluey Lake guide here »
Bluey Lake Rec Site, BC
What We Pack for a Weekend at Bluey Lake
🏕 Shelter & Sleep: Nemo Equipment
With rocky shoreline and uneven patches of ground, a good tent setup matters. We use our NEMO Aurora Highrise tent for most trips—it’s lightweight, sturdy in wind, and perfect for two adults plus gear. The matching NEMO sleeping bags and pads keep us cozy even when the temperature dips at night.
Pro Tip: Bring a tarp or groundsheet to help level out rocky spots and protect your gear.
🍽 Camp Kitchen: Sea to Summit Essentials
We love how compact and efficient the Sea to Summit collapsible kitchen gear is. Their bowls, pots, and utensils are super lightweight and space-saving, ideal for car camping when you still want good food. Don’t forget a bear-safe food storage solution—Bluey is remote, and you’re very much in wild country.
🚣 Watercraft: Paddleboard & Canoe Recommendations
Early mornings at Bluey Lake are glassy and calm—absolutely ideal for paddling.
Red Paddle Co paddleboards are our favourite for their stability and easy inflation.
Looking for something with more storage or for tandem paddling with a kiddo? Consider the legendary Clipper Canoes, which you can find via Valhalla Pure Outfitters.
👶 Safety for Kids: Salus Marine Life Jackets
When you’ve got littles on the water, comfort is key. The Salus Bijoux life jacket is our go-to for babies and toddlers—it fits securely without restricting movement (or naptime in the canoe!).
🧴 Skincare Must-Have: Neutrogena Sunscreen
The sun hits differently at high elevations and reflective water surfaces. We use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 60 and Neutrogena Kids Sunscreen Stick for quick reapplications. It’s water-resistant, non-greasy, and gentle enough for our baby and 3-year-old.
💧 Waterproofing: SealLine Dry Bags
From paddling gear to snacks and spare clothes, SealLine dry bags keep everything safe from splash or unexpected rain. We keep one bag just for kid stuff—diapers, clothes, wipes—and it’s saved us more than once.
Paddle boarding on Bluey Lake, BC
Paddle boarding on Bluey Lake, BC
Paddle boarding on Bluey Lake, BC
Bonus Tips for Your Trip
Go mid-week if you can. Weekends can fill up fast with locals and campers.
Bring shade! Most campsites are quite exposed. A simple sun tarp or beach umbrella makes a huge difference.
Respect fire bans and always pack out your garbage.
Bring a fishing rod if that’s your thing—Bluey Lake is stocked with trout and absolutely serene at sunrise.
Paddle boarding on Bluey Lake, BC
Keep Exploring Nearby
If you’re making a road trip of it, consider pairing Bluey Lake with nearby gems like:
Kentucky-Alleyne Campground, BC
Bluey Lake, BC
Bluey Lake has a piece of my heart. From solo escapes to family camping weekends, it offers solitude, simplicity, and a front-row seat to some of BC’s most underrated beauty. If you’re planning a trip and have questions about logistics, gear, or timing, feel free to reach out or comment below—I love hearing about your adventures!
Crystal clear turquoise waters of Bluey Lake, BC.
Gear
I’ve put together a Car Camping guide with a complete list of gear recommendations.
Interested in the Ultimate BC Road Trip?
Check out our complete Best of BC Guide and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
