Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinGolden Ears Park is a wilderness haven with a surprising twist – it’s named after the distinct shape of its peaks!
Our guide today unravels the magic of camping at Golden Ears Park, from serene lakeside spots to hiking trails. Ready for an outdoor escape? Let us walk you through an unforgettable camping experience.
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Golden Ears Park is during the summer, from July to September. That’s when the sun’s shining, and you can get into all sorts of outdoor fun like camping and chilling by the water.
Things to Know
How much is it to camp at Golden Ears?
The camping fees you dish out play a role in keeping BC Parks’ campgrounds and camping setup in tip-top shape for everyone’s enjoyment. But don’t fret, Golden Ears Park has camping options galore.
You’ve got frontcountry camping spots at Alouette and Gold Creek, backcountry camping, marine frontcountry camping, and North Beach and winter frontcountry camping.
| PRICE | |
| Alouette, Gold Creekfrontcountry camping | $35 per party per night |
| Backcountry camping | $5 per person per night |
| Marine frontcountrycamping | $13 per vessel per night |
| North Beach frontcountrycamping | $23 per party per night |
| Winter frontcountrycamping | $13 per party per night |
Now, Alouette’s frontcountry camping might dent your wallet a bit more, but it’s got the perks—cold water taps, picnic spots, campfire pits, and even hot showers.
Keep in mind, though, no campfires are allowed in the backcountry and marine sites, and North Beach Campground doesn’t have water on tap.
Campsites at Golden Ears
Golden Ears Park boasts three campgrounds you can roll up to in your vehicle: Gold Creek (148 sites), Alouette (206 sites), and North Beach (55 sites).
Gold Creek is your go-to all year, as long as the road is good to go. Meanwhile, Alouette and North Beach campgrounds are on lockdown when it’s not peak season.
Facilities at Golden Ears Park
- Drinking water: cold water taps are available at Alouette Campground, Gold Creek Campground, and near the West Canyon Trailhead. Unfortunately, North Beach Campground doesn’t have a water supply.
- Playground: There is a playground located near the shower building at the north end of Alouette Campground.
- Boat Launch: make use of the park’s four-lane, cement-surface boat launch at the south end of Alouette Lake. There’s also the option for boat-accessible camping along the lake.
- Sani-station: The sani-station is located off the main parkway, just before the campgrounds. It comes with a $5 per discharge fee, payable in $1 and $2 coins.
- Pit and flush toilets: When nature calls, find pit and flush toilets at Alouette and Gold Creek campgrounds and the day-use areas throughout the park. North Beach Campground has pit toilets exclusively.
- Showers: Freshen up with showers available at Alouette and Gold Creek campgrounds. Unfortunately, North Beach Campground doesn’t offer shower facilities.
Golden Ears Passes
If you’re swinging by between June 14 and September 4, 2023, snag yourself a day-use pass. No need for them after September 4, 2023.
Better grab that pass if you’re heading to:
- Alouette Lake boat launch parking
- Alouette Lake South Beach day-use parking
- Golden Creek trailhead parking
- West Canyon parking
It’s smart to grab your passes at least two days before your adventure. Book them online because the camping reservations website or phone won’t do the trick.
Once you’ve got your pass, keep it handy. It’ll land in your email, and you’ll need to show it when you roll up. Pro tip: the park’s not a hotspot for cell service, so be wise and download or print that pass before you hit the road.
How to Get to Golden Ears Park
- By car: From Highway 7 in Maple Ridge, go north on Golden Ears Way, then turn left on 128 Avenue, followed by Abernathy Way. Take a left onto 232 Street at the roundabout, then turn right onto 132 Avenue, which later becomes Fern Crescent and Golden Ears Parkway.
- By bus: Golden Ears Park is serviced by Parkbus, an eco-friendly and affordable transportation service from downtown Vancouver to Golden Ears Park.
Where to Stay near Golden Ears Park
Best Western Maple Ridge Hotel
Address: 21650 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2S1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-467-1511
Pricing: $
Just a quick 18-minute drive from Golden Ears Park, the Best Western Maple Ridge Hotel has plenty to offer, including a pool, complimentary continental breakfast, and a fitness room.
The rooms are cozy and nicely decorated, equipped with large-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minifridges, and tea/coffeemakers. If you opt for an upgraded room, you’ll even get a kitchenette.
Poco Inn and Suites Hotel & Conference Centre
Address: 1545 Lougheed Hwy., Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 1A5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-941-6216
Pricing: $$
Nestled in the heart of Port Coquitlam, the Poco Inn and Suites Hotel is a charming spot. What sets them apart are their themed rooms, ranging from a deserted island and Romeo and Juliet to a blast from the past in the 50s.
For the business crowd, this hotel has you covered with business class rooms featuring a spacious desk, desktop telephone with dataport, and a charging station for your iPhone and iPad.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Langley
Address: 8750 204 St, Langley Twp, BC V1M 2Y5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-882-2000
Pricing: $
Just off Trans Canada Highway 1, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Langley offers nicely decorated rooms. Nothing too fancy, but comfy enough to merit a pleasant stay.
Enjoy the perks of a free breakfast bar, an indoor pool, and additional amenities like a whirlpool, sauna, and steam room. Stay active with the exercise room, and parking is on the house.
Sandman Signature Langley Hotel
Address: 8828 201 St, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 0C8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-455-7263
Pricing: $
Nestled off the highway, the Sandman Signature Langley Hotel offers a perfect blend of captivating elegance, style, and comfort. The rooms boast modern decor and lofty ceilings.
Despite its highway proximity, the hotel is surprisingly quiet. Plus, there’s the convenience of Moxie’s Restaurant right on-site. Enjoy additional amenities like a lovely pool, hot tub, a gym area, and a spacious lobby.
Loon Lake Lodge & Retreat Centre
Address: 14500 Silver Valley Road, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-463-8148
Pricing: $$
For a tranquil retreat, the Loon Lake Lodge & Retreat Centre is the perfect lakeside getaway. Situated on the Vancouver side of Golden Ears Provincial Park, this lodge is enveloped by towering fir trees that showcase the stunning Garibaldi Mountain Range.
The accommodations cater to a variety of needs, from corporate-ready lodgings to well-kept rooms suitable for students, large families, or those looking for budget-friendly options.
Where to Eat near Golden Ears Park
Golden Ears Cheesecrafters
Address: 22270 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-467-0004
Pricing: $$
At Golden Ears Cheesecrafters, indulge in a diverse array of in-house cheeses and local delights. They craft their cheeses from cows that enjoy ‘vacations’ on Gabriola Island.
We recommend trying the Cubano sandwich paired with a corn and shrimp chowder – perfectly seasoned and wonderfully cheesy. Cap off your meal with the creamy and smooth crème brûlée gelato for dessert.
Big Feast Bistro
Address: 11920 227 St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 8S5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-477-4334
Pricing: $$$
Big Feast Bistro is your go-to spot for a fantastic brunch experience with a huge menu. The ambiance, staff, food, lighting, and even the music volume create a perfect blend.
Our recommendation? Dive into the savory lamb sausage adorned with creamy hollandaise, fresh kale, and radishes, all served on perfectly cooked sweet potatoes and topped with poached eggs.
Chameleon Restaurant
Address: 11965 224 St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6B4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-467-5664
Pricing: $$
Embodying chic sophistication, the Chameleon Restaurant features impressive 25 ft ceilings and an open kitchen concept. This dining haven offers elevated farm-to-table cuisine and crafty cocktails.
Among the crowd favorites are the gnocchi, halibut, beef tenderloin, and lobster mac and cheese. However, our top pick would be the chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings for an exceptional culinary journey.
Home Restaurant
Address: 21667 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2S2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-476-1600
Pricing: $$
Since 1953, Home Restaurant has been a beloved spot with a cozy atmosphere, serving up classics and putting a home-style twist on modern dishes. True to its name, the food feels “cooked at home.”
Generous portions for the price, and our top recommendation is the mushroom schnitzel – crispy yet not dry, generously covered with mushrooms and gravy. Pair it with some fries for the perfect combination.
Browns Socialhouse
Address: 20490 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-457-0771
Pricing: $$
Browns Socialhouse is a laid-back restaurant and bar offering pub fare, complete with TVs tuned to sports channels. If you can, snag a seat in the heated winter garden for an outdoor vibe.
Don’t hesitate to inform the servers of any dietary restrictions for a safe, cross-contamination-free meal. We recommend the dragon bowl with chicken. The tender chicken and savory sauce makes every bite a delightful experience.
What to Do in Golden Ears Park
Pitch a Tent at the Gold Creek Campground
Address: 24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2S1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-466-8325
A prime camping spot at Golden Ears is the Gold Creek Campground. Managed closely by park staff, it offers convenient access to the beach.
Once your tent is up, stroll to the serene beach for breathtaking views of clear water, mountains, and sky. Each section of the campground features pit toilets near individual sites, and there are also a couple of buildings offering indoor toilets and showers.
Walk through the Enchanting
Address: Golden Ears Pkwy, Maple Ridge, BC V0M, Canada
The Spirea Nature Trail is a perfect beginner’s stroll, measuring just 0.8 km with minimal elevation. Located beyond the Golden Ears sign, it takes around 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
Surrounded by towering trees, the trail provides opportunities for photos, dog walking, and the best part – it’s wheelchair accessible. Enjoy a leisurely and inclusive nature experience on this short loop.
Go Canoeing on Alouette Lake
Address: Alouette Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Heading to the southwest end of Alouette Lake, you can rent canoes for a scenic adventure. The lake boasts crystal-clear water and a generally calm surface, with a subtle current between Harris Road and Neaves Road.
Once you set out, paddle north. Exercise caution around the boat ramp, especially on busy days, but once you pass it, you’ll discover charming small beaches lining the shore.
Freshen Up at the North Beach
Address: North Beach Trail, Maple Ridge, BC V0M 1H0, Canada
If you’re in the mood for a brief hike and seeking a bit more solitude, North Beach is the place to be. The water is calm, ideal for taking a refreshing swim. The water color is green and crystal clear!
North Beach stands out as the most peaceful campground at Golden Ears, offering scenery that rivals the beauty found in many places across British Columbia, all while being conveniently close to the city.
However, keep in mind that Alouette Lake permits motorized boats, so be cautious, as there’s no designated swimming area at North Beach.
Go Mountain Biking on the Bike Trails
Address: 24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2S1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-466-8325
For cycling enthusiasts, Golden Ears has a treat in store with mountain bike trails that offer an exhilarating ride through lush forests and challenging terrains.
Take on the East Canyon trail (4 km), the Eric Dunning Trail (2 km), the Incline Trail (1 km), and the Menzies Trail (8 km), renowned as the most picturesque trail where you’ll be treated to the sight of a waterfall towards the end of the route.
Where to Shop near Golden Ears Park
Golden Ears General Store
Address: 132 Ave Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2P6
Phone: +1 604-380-1135
Situated in Maple Ridge, the Golden Ears General Store is your go-to spot for Spirit Bear Coffee, lottery tickets, f’real milkshakes, ATM services, and all the essentials you’d expect from a convenience store.
Just an 8-minute drive from the park, it’s the perfect pit stop for those wanting to stock up on snacks, drinks, and other necessities before embarking on a day of outdoor adventures.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Golden Ears Park
Parks Canada: online mobile guided tours of Canada;s parks, historic sites, conservation areas, and historic waterways.
Roadtrippers: turn-by-turn navigation with pre-made travel guides in Canada. Get alerts for unique attractions, local diners, scenic points, and hotels along your route.
Maps.me: detailed, offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation for driving, hiking, or biking to a selected location.
GasBuddy: locates gas stations near you and shows you prices, sends you price hike alerts and the app notifies you about deals.
