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If you feel like you're melting in the heat and need to cool off, what better way than a dip in the river or a lake?

There are several beaches to lounge out at in and around Kamloops, some that allow dogs, some that are more family-oriented, and even one where you can strip down.

We've made a map so you can find the beach that best suits you.

RIVERSIDE PARK

The most popular beach in Kamloops is no doubt Riverside Park. It's in the heart of the city, right off of the South Thompson River in the downtown core.

Along with a sandy beach, a pier and plenty of grassy space, the park offers everything for the family, including picnic benches, a concession stand and a spray park for the little ones.

Music in the Park is also held in the park every night in the summer, and this year food trucks and beer gardens will be there to replenish you.

Dogs aren't allowed in this park, but if you head east along the Rivers Trail, it's just a short walk to Pioneer Park where your furry friends are welcome.

PIONEER PARK

Just outside of the city's downtown is Pioneer Park, complete with a large sand bar in the summer months. Take your dogs here for a swim or a run in the park.

Parking is free in the lot and there's a boat launch for people who want to hit the water.

There are also plenty of grassy spaces, shady spots and picnic benches.

PAUL LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

If you're willing to take a short drive out of Kamloops, Paul Lake Provincial Park offers a large sand beach on the lake which is about 30 minutes outside of the city's centre.

There's also plenty of camping space there if you want to spend a night or two, complete with a sani-station and an adventure playground. The beach offers a car-top boat launch and the park has several kilometres of hiking trails.

BRUKER MARINA 

Carmen Ruiz with Tourism Kamloops says Bruker Marina is one of the less crowded beaches in the area, complete with more than 100 boat slips, an observation deck, a public boat launch and beach area, a fuel dock, convenience store and motor-sport rentals.

The beach, boat launch and play area are open to everyone and the marina is open from May 1 to Oct. 1.

Bruker Marina is just off of Kamloops Lake and is in the Tobiano region west of Kamloops.

OVERLANDER PARK BEACH

Ruiz says the Overlander Park Beach is the largest one in the Kamloops core, nestled beside the Overlanders Bridge where the North and South Thompson meet.

The beach is dog-friendly and offers space for skim boarding, football, volleyball, soccer and other activities.

MISSION FLATS AND HALSTON BRIDGE

Ruiz says there are two other more quiet beaches in the city, including one alongside the Halston Bridge.

Another beach is the only semi-nude beach in the immediate area, off of Mission Flats Road. If you head east along the road past the treatment plant, you'll be able to spot the beach and perhaps get a tan without the tan lines.

Did we miss any beaches? Let us know in the comments below.

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