A Haven for Equine Enthusiasts
Memekey horse camp is located approximately 50 kilometers north of Campbell River, in the Sayward Valley, British Columbia. This camp has been a beloved destination for horse lovers since 2013. Nestled amidst the stunning rural natural beauty of Northern Vancouver Island, in between the Salmon-Brewster and Memekey rivers, this camp offers an unparalleled equestrian experience.
Sonya and Jake watching salmon spawn on the Memekey River. Photo credit Aaron Aronson
The Memekey Horse Camp was founded by passionate horse enthusiasts of the North Vancouver Island Chapter of the Back Country Horsemen (and women) of BC who sought to create a unique and welcoming space for riders of all levels. Their vision was to provide a safe, supportive environment where people could connect with horses and nature.
The camp boasts 12 sites with corrals, with parking for larger horse trailers in a few sites. There are three outhouses, two water cisterns (non-potable water for the horses) and one covered shelter with picnic tables, information maps and wood stove. There are also three manure containment areas. All the amenities, provided, have been developed with volunteer time, donations and grant monies from the Horse Council of BC, Strathcona Regional District, Back Country Horsemen of BC.
The North Vancouver Island chapter have two major events for all to participate/volunteer time to help with the cleaning and upkeep of the Memekey Rec site area. We welcome all volunteers and donations: nvitreasurer2024@gmail.com
Our 2024 news of a substantial grant from the Province of BC, Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Grant Program (REDIP) is intended to address significant rehabilitation along the approximate 40 kms of the Salmon Brewster Trail Corridor including, erosion, drainage, the upgrade of a horse bridge and creating a safe crossing of a ravine. The SB Trail Corridor connects Memekey horse camp to Pine Martin horse camp to Brewster Horse camp. We hope to have a grand re-opening in late 2026.
The new cut area next to the grazing lease. Photo credit Sonya Edelston
The Memekey Recreation Site is open to all recreational groups. Throughout the year, the site hosts Back country chapters and family group camp-outs, as well as hunting and fishing parties, cyclists, and even wedding parties.
For more information or to arrange a guided tour of this beautiful location, please contact the North Vancouver Island Chapter at contact.northvi@bchorsemen.org
We hope to see you on the trails soon!
Submitted by Sonya Edelston
North Vancouver Island Chapter
Memekey camp site #3.
BCHBC is privileged to have Saddle Up Magazine as ‘the official voice’ of our province-wide organization. We value this partnership and encourage you to check out Saddle Up magazine online and consider supporting this BC-based publication by purchasing a subscription. You may also pick up printed copies of Saddle Up in 156 cities/towns with 340 outlets, mainly in BC and Alberta, as well as other parts of Canada and the US. It’s free!
Read the April Saddle Up online, including the BCHBC story. Or enjoy our feature story right here.
