In This Park

Activities Available at this Park
Facilities Available at this Park

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Park Contact

This park proudly operated by:
Shuswap Adams Parks Ltd.
parkinquiries@telus.net
250 320-9305

BC Visitor Information Centre (Clearwater)


Fire Restrictions in Effect for this Park
Smoking is prohibited
During a campfire ban, smoking is restricted in all public areas of a park or protected area. Please read this Information Bulletin.

Wells Gray Provincial Park: Clearwater River

Important Notice Attention Visitors – Important Notice! Show/hide public advisories

  • Corridor road beyond the turn-off to Helmcken Falls closed until spring

    The corridor road beyond the turn-off to Helmcken Falls will be gated/closed as of December 10 until Spring (this is an annual winter closure). Please check website for updated notices on when access will be available.

About This Park

The area provides opportunities for hiking, viewing of spectacular waterfalls, volcanic features, a natural rock bridge, quality trout, chinook and char fishing, camping, river rafting, kayaking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding and photography.

Park Size: approximately 3100 ha

Know Before You Go

Stay Safe

  • Attention: The Clearwater River Road is subject to sudden mudslides, rock fall, flooding, washouts and wind throw events possibly blocking the road for extended periods of time. If weather conditions change dramatically, you may well be advised to relocate to a less isolated location. Be prepared for emergencies.
  • Most of the park’s lakes and rivers are glacier-fed and the water is icy-cold year-round.
  • Do not underestimate the demands of the backcountry. The hiker must be in good physical condition, properly equipped, and prepared to be totally self-sufficient. Take adequate clothing: high elevation weather is subject to change without notice, and Wells Gray’s mountains can receive snow 12 months of the year.
  • Known as The Waterfall Park for good reason, streams and rivers have waterfalls of varying sizes – never boat, canoe, raft or kayak without learning first where the pull-outs are.
  • Clearwater River Road (west side of Clearwater River) is subject to slides, flooding and is infrequently maintained.

Location and Maps

The Clearwater River area is located just north of Clearwater, and extends north along the Clearwater River to Mahood Lake along the southwest border of Wells Gray Park. Access via the Clearwater River Road along the western shore of the Clearwater River. From the town of Clearwater, road travels north 37 km to the confluence of the Mahood and Clearwater Rivers.

Activities Available at this Park

Cycling

Cycling

Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing

Fishing

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

Hiking

For your own safety and the preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure. Trail conditions and updates will be posted on the main page under the Attention Visitor Notice.

This park offers a number of other recreational opportunities (including guided hiking tours).

Pets on Leash

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. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.

Facilities Available at this Park

Accessibility

Accessibility

Some facilities and hiking trails in the park are wheelchair-accessible.
Drinking Water

Drinking Water

Cold water taps are located in developed campgrounds throughout the park. Taps are shut off during the off-season.
Picnic Areas

Picnic Areas

This park has a rustic day-use/picnic area.
Pit or Flush Toilets

Pit or Flush Toilets

This park only has pit toilets – no flush toilets.
Vehicle Accessible Camping

Vehicle Accessible Camping

Some rustic sites available on first-come, first-served basis along Clearwater River Road. There is limited to no developed facilities at these sites.
Dates of Operation for frontcountry/vehicle accessible sites in Wells Gray
Walk-In/Wilderness Camping

Walk-In/Wilderness Camping

Wilderness, backcountry or walk-in camping is allowed, but limited facilities are provided.
Information about backcountry/walk-in sites in Wells Gray
Backcountry Camping Fee: $5.00 per person / night for all persons 6 years of age or older.