Auntz Lake campground can get pretty busy in the summer months. This spring, we were lucky and scored the best site. It's the one on the far right with a path to the lake. We returned during the middle of summer, and it was packed! Deciding to find another camping spot, we discovered a secret local spot. This secret spot is in this guide, if you want to go a little further.

Here are more details

Coordinates: Approx. 50.1003° N, 126.6397° W
Access Time: ~15 minutes from Woss via a gravel road
Elevation: ~200 meters

Trail & Lake Access

Trail Type: Direct access from recreation site—no formal hiking trail
Distance: Beach and forest access from the campground area
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Dirt road, gravel pads, grass lakeshore
Family-Friendly: Yes—great swimming, boating, and paddle access

Getting There

• From Highway 19, turn off at Woss (located between Sayward and Port McNeill).

• In Woss, follow signs to the Nimpkish Mainline or ask locally for Anutz Lake access.

• Continue west along gravel logging roads for approximately 6–8 km.

• Look for a Rec Site sign or open pull-off with forested entry—a GPS or a backroads map book is highly recommended.
  

The road is gravel and generally in good condition, though potholes and logging trucks are common. 2WD is manageable in dry conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is best. There’s no cell service past Woss—download maps in advance.

Camping:

• Type: Forest recreation site

• Sites: ~12 vehicle-accessible campsites in the forest along the lakefront

• Fees: Free

• Reservations: First-come, first-served

• Facilities: Picnic tables, Fire rings, Pit toilets

• Garbage: Pack it in, pack it out

• Water: None—bring your potable water
  
  

Dog Policy: Dogs are allowed. Must be kept leashed and supervised
Great for swimming, but wildlife is active—use caution

Campfires: Allowed in designated fire rings. Subject to fire bans (check BC Wildfire Service). Use only local deadwood—do not damage live vegetation

Facilities: Rustic campground. Pit toilets. Boat launch area (gravel shoreline). No power, cell service, or running water. Sheltered tent sites beneath forest canopy

Water Access: The Lake is ideal for: Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Canoeing, and Swimming. Bring a filtration system if sourcing water from a lake (not potable)

Attractions: Scenic and peaceful inland lake surrounded by second-growth forest. Calm water is ideal for beginner paddlers and families. Fishing opportunities (trout and kokanee). Stargazing and quiet nights with minimal traffic. Popular with locals and off-grid travelers

Weather Conditions: Warm, dry summers and cool spring/fall. The best time to visit is June through September. Snowfall is possible in winter—the campground is not maintained in the off-season. Expect morning fog and chilly lake swims in the shoulder seasons

Cultural & Historical Notes: Located within the traditional territory of the ’Namgis First Nation. Historically, part of the regional fishing and foraging routes. Now used for local recreation, respectful camping, and paddling.