Chilko Bear Camp Combo
In the wilds of British Columbia this unique safari-style wilderness camp will be your home for 3 nights and then enjoy a 3 night rafting trip down the famous Chilko River.
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Trip Highlights
- Take a scenic flight over the Coast Mountains to Williams Lake and scenic transfer to Camp by vehicle
- Check into the waterfront Bear-Camp and get settled in our deluxe safari tents
- Be amazed by the abundance of wildlife including grizzlies, black bears and eagles
- Explore the Coast Mountains, and Chilko and Tatlayoko lakes by canoe, kayak, boat, and on foot
- Paddle and fish the breath-taking azure waters of Chilko River
- Hike or bike on paths enveloped by awe-inspiring mountains
- Enjoy home-cooked meals and evening “feasts” paired with eclectic wines and craft beer
- Unwind with a book, or do nothing but drink in the spectacular scenery
About this trip
Chilko Bear Camp Combo
Outside Magazine called our Chilko trip the Best River Trip on the Planet and honestly, it’s hard to argue. The legendary Chilko–Chilcotin–Fraser delivers nonstop variety and mile after mile of playful, powerful Class IV whitewater, making it one of the most dynamic river journeys anywhere on Earth.
This world-class adventure drops you through alpine forests, slot canyons, high desert plateaus, and towering hoodoos, finishing a full week later and 3,000 vertical feet lower on the mighty Fraser River, the backbone of Canada’s largest watershed. Along the way, you charge through Lava, Big John, and Farwell Canyons and run the longest stretch of commercially navigable whitewater in North America. It’s big, beautiful, and endlessly fun.
The journey begins in Vancouver with a jaw-dropping flight over the Coast Mountains to Williams Lake, followed by a scenic drive across the Chilcotin Plateau to the river. (Direct flight upgrades available.) Your first night is spent at our legendary riverside HQ, the Bear Den, set on 70 acres with half a mile of waterfront, indoor and outdoor dining, safari tent lounges, hot showers, and flush toilets. It’s the perfect place to relax, connect, and get fired up for the epic week ahead.
Itinerary
What to expect
Days 1–2: Bear Den Basecamp & The Calm Before the Stoke
You meet in Vancouver and take a jaw-dropping flight over glaciers and peaks to Williams Lake, then drive across the wide-open Chilcotin Plateau to our legendary riverside HQ: the Bear Den. Settle into platform tents, explore the waterfront, and enjoy a big welcome dinner.
Day two is all about easing into mountain biking, hiking, fishing, inflatable kayaking on the upper Chilko, or just soaking up the scenery. A final camp dinner and river briefing get everyone fired up for launch.
Days 3-4: Lava Canyon, Plateau Floats & River Play
You break camp, suit up, and push into the heart of the action. Lava Canyon delivers the longest continuous whitewater of the trip, 18 miles of powerful Class IV rapids, towering waves, and nonstop adrenaline through narrow lava gorges. You camp just below the confluence where the turquoise Taseko River doubles the flow for an unforgettable day capped with celebration under the stars.
The canyon walls relax as you emerge onto the Chilcotin Plateau. This is a playful, scenic float with abundant birdlife and a perfect day to try rowing or inflatable kayaking. You arrive early to camp with time for swimming, fishing, reading, and sunset watching from polished rock outcrops.
Day 5: Canyons, Culture & Goose Neck with Big Water Finale to the Fraser
A full-value day starts with splashy rapids before lunch at an ancient First Nations fishing site deep in the canyon. Spend the afternoon hiking, swimming, or cliff jumping, then charge through Goose Neck Rapids as golden eagles soar overhead. Camp tonight at the confluence of Big Creek.
Straight out of camp you hit Big Creek Rapids, followed by hoodoos, desert canyons, and the stunning depths of Farwell Canyon. Keep an eye out for California bighorn sheep before entering the dramatic Gates of Mordor and the massive wave trains of Big John Canyon. The river finally releases into the mighty Fraser, where you camp on enormous sandy beaches classic expedition style.
Day 7: Float Out & Fly Home
A mellow morning float brings you to the historic Gang Ranch takeout. From there, shuttle back to Williams Lake and take one last spectacular flight over the Coast Mountains, arriving in Vancouver late afternoon tired, happy, and fully charged from one of the world’s great river journeys.
Lodging
Where you'll stay
Bear Camp is a safari-style tent camp with ‘a Canadian twist’
Sheltered by the Pacific Coast Mountain Ranges, deep in the unspoiled raw wilderness of British Columbia, and protected by the vast terrain of the Tsilhqot’in (Chilcotin) First Nation People, lies Bear Camp. Forged out of Douglas Fir timbers and perched at the juncture of Chilko Lake and the Chilko River, it was originally built 1954 as a hunting & fishing camp, but has since been re-created into a funky, world-class adventure and wildlife-viewing destination. The main log structure is the focal point for meals, cocktails and most socializing. The surrounding tent cabins are a mixture of king or two bed rooms carefully positioned for privacy and view. There are river rock showers, flush toilets and plenty of staff to keep you dearly spoiled while keeping the adventures flowing!
Dates & Pricing
Plan your trip
Dates
2026*
June 28 – July 4
July 12-18
July 26 – August 1
August 9-15
August 23-29
August 30 – September 5
*Custom dates available for private charters
Pricing
$4,995* per person, based on double occupancy
*Goods and Service Tax (GST) of 5%, which will be added to your final balance
What’s Included:
- R/T air package from Vancouver / Williams Lake with shuttle to Bear Camp
- Experienced professional guides
- Accommodations at Bear Camp
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5
- All activities described in the itinerary
- Park fees and necessary permits
Transportation Upgrades:
- Wheeled Charter : One way Vancouver to Bear Camp: $700/person US (min. 2 pax)
- Float Charter (Beaver): One way Vancouver to Bear Camp: $1500/person US (min. 4 pax)
- Float Charter (Turbo Caravan): One way Vancouver to Bear Camp: $1000/person US (7 – 9 pax)
Single Supplement – $1,000 (available first come, first serve. Please inquire!)
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