French Beach Provincial Park in January

It was a prefect winter weekend for a camping trip on the West coast. It was a little chilly but clear and bright. Vincent has a diesel heater and we took lots of firewood. After losing too many games, the Jenga blocks nearly became firewood too!!!

French Beach campground has two loops of camping but in the winter, only the first loop is open. We were one of only 8 other campers this time. The rates are reduced and there are fewer services (no reservations and no firewood). Being a Provincial park, the washrooms, roads and campsites are top notch.

We used to go to Jordan River for winter camping but since cell service was added to the area, it is almost always busy. French Beach is quieter! We usually spend time at Jordan River on our way home to watch the surfers, kayakers, kiters and foil boards. And to check out the other VW buses that are almost guaranteed to be part of the crowd!

There is great access to trails and logging roads across the road from the park. They aren't open to vehicles but you could walk all the way to the San Juan ridge if you wanted to. Here are a few pictures of our campsite.

We visited the Sooke potholes on the way home and got a picture of "the old and the new". There is half a century between Vincent and the Cybertruck. We would chose our old VW every time! The water levels were high in the Sooke river and the roar of the rapids was terrific!

Finally, a few "artsy" pictures...