Burton British Columbia

Burton

British Columbia

On the way to exactly nowhere...

Welcome to Burton!

Tucked quietly between the Selkirk Mountains and the shores of The Arrow Lakes, Burton is a sleepy, friendly little town where time seems to slow down—and that’s just the way we like it. On the way to exactly nowhere, Burton is the perfect place to pause, breathe, and reconnect. Whether you’re craving quiet moments or outdoor adventure, what you’ll find here might surprise you.

Take a look at some things to do in Burton 

Camping

Stay close to nature at the Burton Campsite, a welcoming and well-equipped spot nestled beside The Arrow Lakes. Whether you’re arriving in an RV or pitching a tent, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing and fun-filled stay. The campsite offers both serviced and unserviced sites starting at 30$/night.

Open from May 1st to October 15th, the campground features a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including, easy access to the beach and a public boat launch, horseshoe pits and volleyball nets for outdoor fun.

 

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Waves & Walks

With pristine waters and a stunning mountain backdrop, The Arrow Lakes are perfect for paddling, fishing, swimming, or motorized water sports. Launch your adventure from the Burton boat launch and enjoy all the lake has to offer.
Prefer to stay on land? Explore local hiking trails like the Saddleback Mountain Lookout with panoramic views, or the Hot Springs Trail, which connects to the relaxing Nakusp Hot Springs.

More hikes

Seasonal Spectacles

From mid-August to November, the forests around Burton offer a rich harvest of wild mushrooms—chanterelles, lobster, matsutake, and more—perfect for curious foragers and seasoned pickers alike.

At the same time, nature puts on an unforgettable show at nearby Caribou Creek, where sockeye salmon return to spawn. The dramatic upstream journey draws not only visitors but also eagles and bears, creating a rare chance to witness the wild in motion.

Whether you’re hiking the woods or watching the salmon run, late summer in Burton is a season of wonder. Just remember: forage responsibly, keep a respectful distance, and don’t forget your camera.

Sport & Fitness

Stay Active in Burton
Located in the Burton Community Hall, the Fitness Centre is equipped with everything from treadmills and ellipticals to free weights and fitness balls — all available for just $2 per drop-in (cash at the door).

Pickleball — outside by the ball diamond (weather permitting) or inside the school gym. Bring a racket if you have one (some available), non-marking shoes, and $2 for indoor sessions.

Hours change seasonally, for more info check out our sports and leisure page

More Info

A glimpse into Burton's past

Long before it became a quiet haven “on the way to exactly nowhere,” Burton, British Columbia had a rich and industrious past shaped by the land, the river, and the resilient people who called this valley home.

Nestled on the edge of the Columbia River, Burton was originally settled in the late 1800s, taking its name from Reuben Burton, one of the area’s early pioneers. The community flourished in the fertile valley bottom, where rich soil and a favorable climate supported thriving orchards and family farms. Apples, cherries, and other tree fruits became the lifeblood of the region, attracting settlers and building a strong agricultural identity that would define Burton for decades.

In addition to its orchards, Burton supported a range of industries typical of early rural BC towns. Logging played a significant role in the local economy, with sawmills and timber operations taking advantage of the vast surrounding forests. Fishing and small-scale mining also contributed to the community’s livelihood.

But everything changed in the 1960s with the construction of the Hugh Keenleyside Dam near Castlegar. Part of the Columbia River Treaty between Canada and the United States, the damming of the Columbia River led to the creation of the Arrow Lakes Reservoir. The resulting floodwaters submerged much of Burton’s original townsite and valley farmland beneath the newly expanded lake.

The community was relocated to higher ground, and though much was lost, the spirit of Burton endured. Today, echoes of the past remain—in the orchards that still grow on scattered homesteads, in the stories passed down through generations, and in the quiet resilience of a town that quite literally rose above the water.

Burton’s history is one of adaptation and endurance, shaped by both natural beauty and dramatic change. And while the landscape may look different today, the sense of place remains as strong as ever.

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