The Shuswap Through a Child’s Eyes: Family Adventures to Remember

I was inspired to write this week’s blog post after speaking with three different families booking their summer vacations. While we take multiple bookings every day, these three stood out.

When I asked, “What brings you to the Shuswap—and is this your first time visiting?” they all said something along the lines of:

“My family used to bring us to the Shuswap when we were kids, and now I want to bring my own kids there.”

I’ve heard this before (more times than I can count, honestly). Even my husband’s fondest childhood memories are of weekends and holidays spent at Shuswap Lake. But hearing it three times in one week really made me pause and reflect.

There’s something so deeply special about this place. How incredible is it that someone can have such cherished childhood memories here that, when they become parents, their first instinct is to pass those same experiences on to their kids?

So what makes the Shuswap such a magical place for children?

🏖️ Sandy Beaches & Shallow Shores

Perfect for castle-building, floaty lounging, and splashy afternoons.

Beaches like Canoe Beach in Salmon Arm, Sandy Beach and Pebble Beach in Blind Bay offer shallow entry points and calm, kid-friendly waters for hours of fun.

🌲 Forest Trails & Little Explorers

The Shuswap is full of lush, forested trails where kids get to feel like true adventurers.

Whether they’re trekking to a lookout, geocaching with family, or imagining dragons and fairies in the woods, these trails spark wild imaginations.

🍓 Markets Full of Music, Treats & Treasure Hunts

The farmers’ markets in Sorrento, Salmon Arm, and Blind Bay offer more than fresh produce. They're packed with handmade goodies, live music, and wide-open spaces for little ones to roam. Bonus points if they find fresh lemonade or hand-dipped popsicles on a warm day!

🎳 Mini Golf, Bowling & Ice Cream Breaks

The Social District in Scotch Creek is a hit with families—mini golf, bowling, pizza, ice cream, and now even virtual golf and batting cages. It’s a full day of family fun under one roof!

🎶 Festivals, Music & Dancing in the Fields

Events like “Music in the Park” feel like something out of a storybook. Kids dancing barefoot in the grass, vendors with toys and shaved ice, and families gathered under the summer sky.

🔥 Campfires & Starry Nights

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than cozying up around the campfire. Roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and looking up at the stars—these are the moments that turn into lifelong memories.

The Shuswap invites adventure, curiosity, and imagination. Maybe that’s why so many people return here. Maybe this place doesn’t just bring back childhood memories—but perhaps it awakens our inner child.

At Seasonal Escapes, our vacation rentals are set up with families in mind. Spacious layouts, bunk beds, board games, firepits, cozy nooks—we do everything we can to make sure the whole family feels welcome.

So pack the floaties, the snacks, and that well-loved stuffy.

Because in the Shuswap, kids don’t just visit—they belong.

And those giggles, muddy toes, and wide-eyed moments?

Those are the real souvenirs.

Ready for your next family escape?

Browse our kid-approved vacation rentals and let the adventure begin!