Cariboo River Park

Park overview

This linear park protects a large portion of the upper Cariboo River and surrounding wetlands, from Kimball Lake downstream to where the river enters Cariboo Lake. It is critical habitat for wildlife, especially moose and waterfowl.

The waterfalls, old-growth and estuaries at this park can be accessed via canoe or power boat. The park provides opportunities for water-based recreation such as canoeing, rafting and powerboating.

This park is a wilderness area that is not regularly serviced or patrolled.

Advisories

Safety info

Swimming is not recommended, due to high volume water flow with dangerous currents.
Watch for river hazards, such as sweepers (trees hanging into the water), deadheads (submerged trees), sand and gravel bars, and high water during spring run-off or heavy rains.
Bring your own drinking water, as potable water is not available in the park.

Camping

Wilderness camping

Wilderness camping is allowed, but no facilities are provided. There is an information shelter at the Cariboo River crossing on the 3100 Road.

Facilities

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Boat launch

The boat launch is gravel and may be flooded at high water. It is next to the bridge by the information shelter. The road access is narrow and confined.

Campfires

While campfires are permitted, it is preferable to use a camp stove, since this is a fragile environment. If you must have a fire, bring your own firewood or use only dead and down wood. Please use existing campfire rings, do not build new ones.

Activities

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Canoeing

Only paddlers experienced with moving water should attempt this section of the Cariboo River (which is mellow compared with some sections outside the park). Wear approved PFDs and watch for deadheads and sweepers.

Kayaking

Fishing

Fish for rainbow trout and bull trout. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Hunting

The park is open to hunting. Please check the Hunting & Trapping Regulations Synopsis for more information.

Winter recreation

Visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe in the park but there are no set trails.

Vehicle access is on logging roads from Likely or Barkerville in snow free months only. The park is located approximately 90 km from the town of Likely on the 8400 Road or 70 km from the town of Barkerville on the 3100 Road. Please drive with caution on these active logging roads. Use your headlights at all times. The closest communities are Wells, Likely, Barkerville, Quesnel and Williams Lake.

Park and activity maps

Location Map

Learn more about this park

Park details

Date established: July 12, 1995
Size: 3,211 hectares

Nature and culture

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.