A campfire ban is currently in effect for this park. For more information about campfire bans and about provincial parks with park closures and campfire bans in effect, visit the BC Parks campfire ban webpage.
The Nicolum park campground is closed indefinately. Park users can still walk into the park if conditions such as weather permit. Check here for park alerts.
Park Info
Located near Hope, Nicolum River Provincial Park is characterized by dense forest cover and a small, fast flowing river. It provides fishing opportunities to the travelling public on Highway 3.
Park Size: 24 hectares
General Visitor Information
Nicolum River is susceptible to high water levels and increased water
velocities during spring/summer run-off season.
The park is located 8 km east of Hope on Highway 3, near the junction of Highways 3 and 5.
Nature & Culture
History - Nicolum River was designated to Provincial Park status in 1956. It serves as the first roadside rest-stop for visitors en route from the Lower Mainland to the Interior.
Cultural Heritage - In 1846, Alexander Caulfield Anderson of the Hudson's Bay Company explored the valley occupied by the Nicolum and Sumallo Rivers in search of a route to the Cariboo (the Dewdney Trail). In the process, he set up camp in the vicinity of Nicolum River Provincial Park. The section of Highway 3 at the park was once part of the historic trail.
Conservation - The park is situated in the Coastal Western Hemlock biogeoclimatic zone. Characteristic species associated with this zone and presently on site include coastal western hemlock, red cedar, and in well drained areas, Douglas-fir. The understory is sparse and consists mainly of sword fern, bracken, salmonberry, and moss species.
Wildlife - The significant wildlife species in the park are primarily songbirds and fish. These include varied thrush, black-throated grey warbler, red-breasted nutlatch, and Dolly Varden. Transient species in the area include porcupine, coyote, Columbia blacktail deer, and black bear.
Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing
Rainbow Trout fishing is available in the Nicolum River. 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. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
