Stave West
 |
mekw’wa’t a’xwest ikw’elo’ in the local hәnqәminәm language means everyone shares here, and is meant to remind us of important connections shared in this beautiful area in the past. It also reminds us of our joint responsibilities to respect and protect these shared values for future generations. |
The City of Mission is proud to work in collaboration with the Kwantlen First Nation, Matsqui
First Nation, Leq’a:mel First Nation and the Province of British Columbia to guide the
transformation of the Stave West Forest & Recreation Area into a destination for safe and friendly
outdoor recreation and learning – one that co-exists with sustainably managed forestry operations.
Camp in Stave West
Now with over 200 campsites across four campgrounds Stave West is growing into a destination for family-friendly outdoor recreation. These sites are managed by the Province of BC – Recreation Sites and Trails.
Visitors with horses or anyone looking for a campsite near the water should visit Kearsley Creek. With special corrals and amenities for equestrians as well as fantastic oversized waterfront campsites this campground is sure to become one of Stave West’s most popular sites.
If you’re hauling an ORV or travelling with a group of RVers then Rock Creek is your go-to site. With large group-sites, many pull-though campsites and a special staging area by the host this campground is purpose-built to serve people who bring their creature comforts with them when they visit the outdoors.
Sayres Lake is a more remote destination, but easily within reach and offers lakeside camping for RV’s, tent-pads, and some walk-in sites for people looking for a more secluded experience. It’s just 30 minutes but a world away from Mission or Maple Ridge.
Stave West: A Shared Commitment
Over a decade ago a vision of safe family-friendly outdoor recreation in Stave West was born. At that time Mission’s Forestry operation and Tree Farm Licence #26 was challenged in dealing with dangerous, and illegal activity, but saw the opportunity to advance sustainably-managed community forestry hand-in-hand with safe outdoor recreation.
Carefully and mindfully staff from Mission engaged with locals, groups active in the area, and local First Nations to begin building relationships that might support the positive shift they saw was needed. Slowly, and with care and attention from all sides we have built a shared commitment between the City of Mission, the Kwantlen First Nation, and the Province of BC to work in collaboration with each other and in consultation with user groups as we guide the evolution of Stave West.
Since embarking on a master planning process five years ago we have seen road upgrades, improved safety and security for foresters, students, and visitors, and as of 2018 Stave West is home over 200 new campsites established across four campgrounds with dedicated hosts welcoming visitors to this spectacular setting.
This spring we embarked on a stakeholder re-engagement process that brought together almost 50 participants from user groups, local and provincial government, and First Nations.
The Stave West Forest & Recreation Area is built on a shared commitment to ongoing collaboration and respect for all involved.