All Birch Hills County in Peace River

GPS Coordinates: N56° 05.192’ W117° 35.291’
Known to locals as “Beer Belly Flats”, the Shaftesbury Settlement has modern houses along the left shore that can be seen from the river. There is a gravel bar at the end of the last island, and there is a paved road, Secondary Highway #684, on the left shore that runs into the Town of Peace River. If needed, you can dock at any point along the shore and walk to the highway.

Paddle Time 

7 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N56° 04.456’ W117° 36.743’
In previous years there was an eagle’s nest on the upper tip of the island here. There’s a good chance you will catch a quick glimpse of a bald eagle in this area, so keep your eyes peeled.

Paddle Time 

3 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N56°4.6549’ W117°37.1845’
Peace River Cabins and Outdoors offers accommodations right along the banks of the Peace River. Guests can opt for full-service cabins, a spacious suite with river views, rustic wall tents, or even a teepee. They provide on-site canoe and kayak rentals guided trips, shuttles, and facilities for groups. Open from May to October.

Paddle Time 

1 Hour

GPS Coordinates: N56° 2.276’ W117° 39.956’
This large island is known as Mushikitee Island. Alexander Mackenzie noted in his journals that “mushikitee” means “big” in Cree. This island is set amongst rolling hills and has lots of green vegetation in the summer months.

Paddle Time 

30 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N56° 01.577’ W117° 44.062’
Griffin Creek was named after Thomas Griffin, a settler who arrived in the Peace River area in 1904. He grew wheat and barley and was known for promoting the area as prime agriculture land. The Griffin Creek valley has a gravel bar at its mouth and it’s not uncommon to see many boats docked here for a quick pitstop.

Paddle Time 

40 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N56° 01.499’ W117° 44.379’
Only use a landmark as it is on private land. This cabin is nestled among the trees, but you will still be able to catch a glimpse of it from the river. Known as the Griffin Creek Cabin because of its close proximity to Griffin Creek.

Paddle Time 

40 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 59.683’ W117° 47.417’
Located on private land, please only use as a landmark. Standing high on the west bank is a cabin, you’ll notice rocky cliffs, some greenery and small poplar trees, and quite a bit of gravel on the shore here.

Paddle Time 

40 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 57.299’ W117° 51.728’
Here you will notice a pipeline crossing and an island that will potentially be well groomed by local cattle. Through this route, it’s advised to stay left, but always use your best judgement.

Paddle Time 

30 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 55.900’ W117° 54.633’
Kieyho Park can be difficult to spot from the river, and there isn’t a main trail to the campground from the river, but there is a road that is accessible by off highway vehicles only. This spot offers secluded camping facilities, picnic tables, fire pits, a day use area, hiking trails and a playground. If you feel like dropping a line in the river and doing some fishing, this has been known to be a great area for it.

Paddle Time 

20 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 55.759’ W117° 56.941’
Right after departing Camp Island, you will come across an island in the middle of the river that was once a sand-dune island famously noted in Alexander Mackenzie’s journals. Now, you’ll find that it’s covered in tall grass and vegetation and is a favourite spot among the deer population here. The current can be a bit stronger around Sand Island, so be prepared for some waves if the water is high.

Paddle Time 

30 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 55.083’ W117° 58.383’
This great camping area is just down stream from Elk Island and has many great spots to throw up a tent and spend the night. Tucked into the trees, this camping spot is quiet and offers plenty of space to dock your boat and enjoy some time on land.

Paddle Time 

3 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 55.150’ W117° 59.117’
Elk Island Park is a decent place to stop when travelling on the river. Docking here can be difficult though as water levels tend to drop quickly, making it important to find a spot with plenty of water. The access road to this location is very narrow and steep and almost impossible in the rain and mud, so it is not advised to use in an emergency situation.

Paddle Time 

3 Minutes

GPS Coordinates: N55° 54.767’ W118° 00.933’
As the river straightens out you will see Long Island on the left. It’s easy to figure out how it got its name due to how long the island is, and you will see plenty of deciduous and coniferous trees atop it. Keep an eye out for wildlife here, especially hawks, eagles, deer, moose, and even bears.

Paddle Time 

1 Hour

GPS Coordinates: N55° 54.852’ W118° 08.632’
Ideal for a quick stop or picnic, the Burnt River has a great, flat landing spot where you can relax and take in the incredible views of the valley. Along the north shore you’ll see a private cabin, and if you’re feeling like taking a dip in the river, the water is deep enough right off the shoreline. Perfect for when you want to kick back and soak up the scenery, the Burnt River stop is sure to impress.

Paddle Time 

2 Hours, 15 Minutes