In This Park

Dead Man’s Island Provincial Park

About This Park

This small (1 hectare) park encompasses an island in Burns Lake, 2 km southeast of the village of Burns Lake. The park is used in both summer and winter by local residents, for picnicking and other similar activities.

Know Before You Go

Safety Notice

Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park.

Location and Maps

Please note: Any maps listed are for information only; they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.

Location Map

Dead Man’s Island Provincial Park is 2 km southeast of Burns Lake and is only accessible by boat.

Nature and Culture

History: Dead Man’s Island Provincial Park was established on October 31, 1933 by the Provincial Government with Order-in-Council 1377 under the authority of the Provincial Parks Act. The park was reclassified as a Class C Provincial Park on December 11, 1940 with Order-in-Council 1660.
The park contains one archaeological site, which shows signs of historic habitation of the island. The island was also used as a burial site for Chinese workers who died in an accident while building the CN Rail line.
Culture: Dead Man’s Island Park is within the traditional territory claimed by the Burns Lake Band of the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council and the Wet’suwet’en First Nation.
Conservation: Protects a small portion of the SBSdk (Sub-Boreal Spruce zone dry cool subzone) biogeoclimatic zone, and the Bulkley Basin Ecosection.

Management Planning

Management Planning Information
There is a Management Direction Statement for the park.

Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

The park is accessible by boat only. It is a short trip (2km) from the Burns Lake municipal boat launch to the island.

Fishing

Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Pets on Leash

Pets/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.

Swimming

Burns Lake is a great place for a summer swim.

Wildlife Viewing

Birding is the main wildlife viewing opportunity at this park.

Winter Recreation

The park can be accessed by skating, snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling in winter months. Be sure Burns Lake is well frozen before venturing out onto the lake.

Facilities Available at this Park

Campfires

Campfires are permitted. If you chose to have a fire, please bring wood with you. Collecting firewood on the island is prohibited.

Picnic Areas

There is a public use picnic shelter on the island available on a first-come, first-served rule.

Pit or Flush Toilets

This park only has pit toilets – no flush toilets.