Painted Bluffs Park protects a small geological feature on the north shore of Kamloops Lake, 34 kilometres west of Kamloops. BC Parks says the park has no road access and land-based access is not possible because of surrounding private property.
The park can be reached by watercraft from Kamloops Lake, with paddling launches needing to take place from Savona.
Painted Bluffs is a geology-focused park. The distinctive multi-coloured rocks and soils on an intrusion of batholithic rocks create the muted rainbow appearance that gives the park its name.
The feature can be seen both on site and from viewpoints across Kamloops Lake. The park also protects related soils and vegetation, fluvial fans, low-elevation big sage, and bluebunch wheatgrass in excellent condition. Cultural and historical features include native copper diggings, historic mine sites, and the Hudson Bay Brigade Trail crossing the northeast corner. Wildlife values include concentrations of California bighorn sheep.
Most visitors will understand the feature from the water.
Reach the park by watercraft only, canoe or kayak from Savona if conditions allow, fish for rainbow trout from the foreshore with a licence, waterski on Kamloops Lake, hunt during open seasons, and view the coloured bluffs without climbing unstable or sensitive slopes.
No camping or day-use facilities are provided. Do not cross private land to enter the park. Bring marine or lake safety gear, weather planning, drinking water, and navigation. Pets must be leashed, and backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs because of wildlife concerns.
