Though primary access is marine, Pilot Bay Provincial Park is only a five minute drive or a 30 minute walk from the Kootenay Bay ferry terminal.
This park is the safest harbour on Kootenay Lake where boaters often gather to weather out the summer storms. This park is also user-maintained: you must pack out what you pack in.
At the campground, there are 7 backcountry user-maintained campsites. There are 6 food catches throughout the campground. The BC Parks backcountry permit registration service allows you to purchase a backcountry camping permit before leaving home. Although this does not reserve a campsite, it provides the convenience of prepaying for your trip and not having to carry cash.
The water is warm in the bay for swimming and some of the best fishing for trophy Gerrard trout is nearby. There is an extensive network of hiking trails through the park and along the Pilot Peninsula.
It is an easy walk to the historic Pilot Bay lighthouse which is being restored by area volunteer groups. Primarily marine accessed, the park can be reached by road.
More recreation includes canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, waterskiing and windsurfing.
Near Kootenay Bay ferry terminal
, BC