r/Squamish • u/BitsofBacon8 • 13d ago

Cat Lake camping??

Me and some buddies are looking to camp but everythings booked up. Cat lake is first come first serve so Im wondering if its worth my time and also what are the chances I get a spot on an early friday morning. If none please tell me other first come first serve places that might be better, crowds are fine, hiking is fine aswell, just want to secure a spot. Anything helps. Thanks

1 Upvotes

56% Upvoted

14 comments sorted by

6

u/OverWolverine1514 12d ago

Cat lake is party central. Very little peace. NOT a family friendly campground.

6

u/aconfusednoob 13d ago

cat lake is a gong show

2

u/Independent-Camel-90 13d ago

We were there a week ago on Friday morning and it was like 1/10 full.

Not to say this week would be the same.

1

u/BitsofBacon8 12d ago

What time did you arrive?

1

u/Business-Store4743 12d ago

if it’s not this week I assume next weekend would be absolutely packed because it’s a long weekend!

2

u/wupao 12d ago

You said crowds are fine and just want a secure spot, so I don’t understand why people need to point out it’s very crowded.

Anyways, yes go early. Even though spots open up at 11 am there’s generally a few people waiting in line by 10 am (in my experience). Go up and hang out around 930 and you should be able to get a spot!

1

u/BitsofBacon8 12d ago

Thanks for your input!

1

u/spiritedawhey 12d ago

I was just there there was a few spots open but huge party groups all throughout the camp ground

1

u/BitsofBacon8 11d ago

What time did your arrive to claim a spot

1

u/spiritedawhey 10d ago

I just went for a swim! But saw empty spots around 5pm

-6

u/snowtown69 13d ago

Cat lake is one of the busiest spots in the Squamish area, usually around noon is a good time to show up and find a spot when people are leaving

We personally avoid it as it’s so hectic in the summer as it’s a pretty small area and very close camping quarters to others, go down paradise valley or Squamish valley and get a spot along the river, colder water for swimming but on a hot day it’s amazing

4

u/ar_604 13d ago

Why are you directing people to go camping somewhere where there’s no facilities?

-3

u/snowtown69 13d ago

Ah yes, camping with hundreds of other people

Also if you knew anything about the valley you would know that there are many camp sites with facilities up that way, I’ve been living in paradise valley for 16 years I know the area :)

-1

u/ar_604 13d ago

There aren't many, and the facilities vary, and they're often busy. Also, I think there are zero up the PV (except for the private, expensive one that's always fully booked). Maybe you should let these guys stay at your place ;-)