Hamsterly Beach at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

I like hamsterly beach. It's a great place for kids.

The beach is nice, pretty much always clean and tidy. Parking can be limited in the heat of the summer. Washrooms are dated, but functional and usually kept clean. The kids' playground is always a draw, as is the trail around the lake (about 6 mi./10km, fairly smooth grade of gravel and dirt, so plan accordingly). I think there is a huge missed opportunity of having more amenities for food sales, attractions etc.

Just a personal opinion as it is always a balance between over commercializing such a nice location, and generating revenue for upkeep, enhancements and reduced taxes (hint) and providing some helpful services for people.

Lots of sun and warm water! Generally busy during the summer weekends, though not as much during the week. Nice 10km path that loops two lakes. Great for runners!

It's a good place to swim, but can get quite busy. There are shaded areas here, both on the grass and on the beach which makes it a good place for young kids. The beach slopes very gently into the water which also makes it good for kids. We live close by and usually come here 4-5 times each summer.

Great beach for kids and families. They love finding the stumps in the water. Good parking lot and level-ish, shaded grassy area.