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Advisories

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Total number of campsites
Total reservable frontcountry sites: 20
Total vehicle-accessible sites: 46
Vehicle-accessible camping

There are two vehicle-accessible campgrounds in this park. Lakeside Campground and the Upper Campground.

The Lakeside Campground consists of 27 sites that overlook the lake. There are 10 high density sites that can accommodate large rigs. There is also 1 pull through site at this campground and parking for extra vehicles is available in the park but not on the sites.

The campsites in the Upper Campground consists of 19 sites that are larger and more double sites are available. The sites are nestled amongst the trees and there is parking available for extra vehicles on site. This campground is used for overflow camping.

First come, first served sites are available. If staff are not around when you arrive at the campground, choose your site and pay later. Staff will be at the campground at least once a day during the camping season. There is no pay phone in the park and the closest store is located in Clinton, approximately 43km away.

The Upper campground (Sites 28-46) is available for long-stay camping. A minimum of four consecutive weeks must be booked. Please contact the park operator for information and to book one of these sites.

Vehicle-accessible camping fee$18 per party per night
BC seniors’ rate (day after Labour Day to June 14 only)$9 per senior party per night
Long-stay camping$88 per week

For information on the BC seniors’ rate, see the camping fees page. Information on long-stay camping is available on the Frontcountry Camping webpage.

Accessibility information

Accessibility information is available for this park.

Drinking water

Cold water taps are located throughout the park. Taps are shut off during the off-season.

Playground

There is a playground in the day-use area.

Boat launch

There is a paved, single-wide boat launch on the lake next to the lakeside campsites. Towing behind boats is not allowed and there is a speed limit of 10km per hour. The boat launch is open until Thanksgiving weekend.

Campfires

Campfires are allowed and campfire rings are provided at each campsite. We encourage visitors to conserve wood and protect the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using campstoves instead. Firewood can be purchased in the park or you may bring your own wood. Fees for firewood are set locally. Limited burning hours or campfire bans may be implemented. 

To preserve vegetation and ground cover, please don’t gather firewood from the area around your campsite or elsewhere in the park (this is a ticketable offence under the Park Act). Dead wood is an important habitat element for many plants and animals and it adds organic matter to the soil.

Picnic areas

There is a day-use and picnicking area with picnic tables, pit toilets, an adventure playground and a parking area.

Pit or flush toilets

There are pit toilets located throughout the campground and day-use area.

Hiking

The Otter Marsh is a 3.5km self-guided interpretive trail. Please see Otter Marsh interpretive trail brochure below. For your own safety and preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure.

Swimming

Swimming is available at the beach located in the day-use area. The swimming area is roped off. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Canoeing

There are opportunities for canoeing or kayaking in this park.

Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout is a popular activity, as the lake is stocked on a yearly basis. It is typically best between mid May and late July. Nearby Little Big Bar lake and Beaverdam Lake are also popular for fishing. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Pets on leash

Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to the potential for problems with wildlife. 

Cycling

Bicycles must keep to roadways, and bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia. If exploring by mountain bike, the Jesmond Fire lookout provides great views of the Fraser River and the Mountains and rangelands of the Chilcotin.

Please note that bicycles with electric assist motors (e-bikes) are not allowed on the trails within Big Bar Lake Park. E-bikes are restricted to park roads and areas where motorized use is permitted.