This park is currently closed due to fire hazard.
Fire Restrictions in Effect for this Park
Please Note: During a campfire ban, smoking is restricted in all public areas of a park or protected area. Please read this Information Bulletin [PDF].

In This Park

Activities Available at this Park
Facilities Available at this Park

On This Page

Visitor Information

Campfires are not permitted; observe posted signs.

Park Contact

This park proudly operated by:
Brandywine Environmental Management Ltd.
parkinquiries@telus.net
250 320-9305

McConnell Lake Provincial Park

About This Park

McConnell Lake Provincial Park McConnell Lake is popular with fishermen and it is noted for rainbow trout to 1.5+ kg.

Park Size: 102 hectares

Special Notes:
  • BC Parks and the BC Wildfire Service are working year-round to minimize the amount of fallen trees across the Lakeshore Loop Trail (as per the direction provided by the Wildlife Danger Tree Assessor: Parks and Recreation Module). Please respect the signage and staff when they are carrying out this work in the area. If you experience fallen trees across the trail that do not allow for reasonable movement around/through – please contact the Kamloops office at 250 371-6200
  • Campfires are not permitted; observe posted signs.
  • The Lakeshore Loop Trail is 3.5 km in length. If you are enjoying the trail with your four-legged companion, please ensure he/she is on a leash and under control – we want to make sure this is a trail that everyone can enjoy. Please make sure to clean up after your dog, including bringing his/her waste out of the park – outhouses are for human waste only (not bags, diapers, garbage, etc.).
  • The nearest public telephone is at the entrance to Lac Le Jeune Park, approx. 5 km away.
  • Please help to prevent the spread of Eurasian Water Milfoil by removing all weeds from your boat and motor before launching and after removing it from the lake.

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. Take the Lac le Jeune Exit off Hwy #5; the park is 35 km south of Kamloops and 49 km north of Merritt.

Nature and Culture

  • History: Through the LRMP McConnell Lake was established in 1996 as a Class “A” park; McConnell Lake has been protected as a Recreation Area for many years.
  • Conservation: The park represents a typical plateau lake surrouonded by hilly forested uplands. There are Montane Spruce and old growth specimens of Douglas Fir. The riparian and shoal areas provide critical habitat and feeding areas for rainbow trout.
  • Wildlife: McConnell Lake is noted for rainbow trout.

Management Planning

Activities Available at this Park

Canoeing

Canoeing

McConnell Lake is popular with canoeists and kayakers.
Fishing

Fishing

McConnell Lake contains 1.5 kg and larger rainbow trout. This is a regionally significant rainbow trout fishery. The lake is known for its clear water. Check fishing regulations. The lake is popular for ice fishing. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Hiking

Hiking

There is a primitive trail around the lake. There are extensive hiking trails available at nearby Stake Lake. This area offers over 45 km of trails.
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.
Swimming

Swimming

There is no developed beach or swimming area. There are no lifeguards on duty in Provincial Parks.
Winter Recreation

Winter Recreation

Informal snowshoeing can occur depending on snow levels and access. Cross-country skiing is available at nearby Stake Lake where there are over 45 km of trail.

The lake is popular for ice fishing. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Facilities Available at this Park

Boat Launch

Boat Launch

There is a small gravel surfaced boat launch suitable for small boats. This is a small, quiet fishing lake. High speed operation of boats is discouraged.
Drinking Water

Drinking Water

There is one cold-water hand pump available in the park.
Picnic Areas

Picnic Areas

This is a very rustic day-use area. There is one picnic table near the boat launch.
Pit or Flush Toilets

Pit or Flush Toilets

This park has one pit toilet – no flush toilets.