In a forest of aspen, birch, pine, and spruce you'll find Charlie Lake Provincial Park. On a rolling landscape of interior plains, this 435-acre park features activities on both lake and land. Open for camping from May to September, visitors may still walk into the park during the off-season if weather permits. While the days in the summer months may be warm, do plan to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket for the mild evenings.
There are many lake activities to enjoy at the park such as swimming or boating. There is a car-top boat launch located at the provincial park for those with canoes or kayaks. While boats on trailers cannot use the boat launch in the park, there are nearby launches that may be used. For those looking for activities on land, there are many walking trails to explore connecting the different areas of the park. Horseshoe pits and a playground are near the picnic area.
During camping months, visitors flock to Charlie Lake. There are 57 campsites and 51 of these are reservable. Be sure to reserve a campsite to be guaranteed a spot. There are limited services in the park. While there are no electric or water hookups, there are water taps in the campground. If you're planning to enjoy a small campfire, firewood can be purchased at the park or guests can bring their own. Pets are permitted at the park, but must be kept on a leash.
Charlie Lake Provincial Park can be found in the northeast region of British Columbia in the community of Charlie Lake. The park is located near the Alaska Highway and Highway 29 junction. It is about a 20 minute drive from the city of Fort St. John.
The road into the park should be mostly hazard free. The gate to the park is closed during the off-season, but visitors can walk into the park if weather conditions permit. If visiting during the off-season, keep an eye on the weather reports. Snow and ice are common between the late fall and early spring. Once in the park, visitors will find that most of the parking pads are back in. Leveling may be necessary at some campsites due to slight slopes.
It is easy to get around to the activities and amenities at the park. There is a large parking lot near the day-use area. Additionally, a number of walking paths connect the campground with the lake and day-use area.
Camping season at Charlie Lake Provincial Park runs from May to September. There are 57 campsites, of which 51 are reservable. Large RVs and travel trailers over 32 feet in length can be accommodated at the campground at certain sites. It's prudent to call ahead to double check the size limit. The parking pad at some campsites may be sloped, so come prepared to level your RV or trailer if need be.
There are no electric or water hookups, however, water taps and pit toilets are available. A sewage dump station is also at the park and may be used for a small fee. Leashed pets are welcome at Charlie Lake, but be sure to pick up after your pet.
Even during the warm months, nights may be cool. Be sure to pack a sweatshirt or light jacket. After a day of activities, gather around the fire ring at your campsite to enjoy a small campfire. Park visitors can bring in their own firewood or may purchase wood at the park.
Boating is a popular activity on Charlie Lake. There is a car-top boat launch for those who bring canoes or kayaks. While boats on trailers are welcome, the boat launch cannot accommodate them. There are nearby launches that guests may use for boat access. There are no canoe or kayak rentals at the park.
On a warm afternoon, take one of the trails down to the banks of Charlie Lake. The lake at the park is a great spot to cool off whether you want to wade or swim. Bring along a floaty to lounge in the refreshing water while enjoying the scenery or a good book. There are no lifeguards on duty at the park. Swim at your own risk and keep an eye out on the others in your group.
While visiting the park plan to have a picnic lunch or dinner. There is a picnic area at the day-use area which is perfect for family gatherings and other celebrations. The picnic area is also near the playground as well as horseshoe pits. Enjoy a friendly round or two of horseshoes or watch the kids play on the playground equipment. There is a large parking lot near the picnic area making it easy to transport picnic supplies from your campsite or home.
There are many walking trails within Charlie Lake Provincial Park. The trails connect the campground to the day-use area as well as the lake. Though not long or difficult, the trails do vary in length. Whether you want to stretch your legs with a short hike or enjoy the beauty and calm of the park, the trails are well worth the time exploring during a visit to Charlie Lake.
Charlie Lake is a fantastic spot for fishing and anglers are bound to catch fish during their visit to the park. The lake is known to have walleye, pike, and perch, as well as other types of fish. Fish from the shore or take to a boat to fish this 13 kilometer (8.1 mile) lake. Check licensing rules and regulations and ensure you pickup the appropriate fishing license.
Cycling is permitted on the roads and trails at Charlie Lake Provincial Park. Explore the many trails within the park on your bike as you breeze under the forest of trees. Don’t forget to bring your helmet. Helmets are required to be worn when biking in British Columbia.
