Sasquatch Provincial Park
Public Advisory
BC Hydro has begun site preparation to twin 250 kilometres of their main electrical transmission line from the Interior (Nicola Valley) to the Lower Mainland (Coquitlam). Known as the “ILM”, the project has been approved by the BC Environmental Assessment Office and is required in order to reliably deliver clean and renewable energy and help meet the future electricity demands of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. The transmission line corridor is adjacent to Sasquatch Park, and it passes through the southern end of Golden Ears Park and Pinecone Burke Park. Park visitors may expect to encounter crews and vehicles accessing the transmission line corridor from various locations within these three parks until November 2012 to facilitate vegetation removal and work along the right of way, in advance of further electrical line infrastructure upgrade slated for 2013. Some traffic disruption may be experienced along roadways in order to facilitate access for workers and equipment to the transmission corridor.
For more information on BC Hydro’s initiative, please see: (http://www.bchydro.com/energy_in_bc/projects/ilm.html)
ATVs and other unlicensed motorbikes and vehicles are not allowed in the park.
BC Hydro has begun site preparation to twin 250 kilometres of their main electrical transmission line from the Interior (Nicola Valley) to the Lower Mainland (Coquitlam). Known as the “ILM”, the project has been approved by the BC Environmental Assessment Office and is required in order to reliably deliver clean and renewable energy and help meet the future electricity demands of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. The transmission line corridor is adjacent to Sasquatch Park, and it passes through the southern end of Golden Ears Park and Pinecone Burke Park. Park visitors may expect to encounter crews and vehicles accessing the transmission line corridor from various locations within these three parks until November 2012 to facilitate vegetation removal and work along the right of way, in advance of further electrical line infrastructure upgrade slated for 2013. Some traffic disruption may be experienced along roadways in order to facilitate access for workers and equipment to the transmission corridor.
For more information on BC Hydro’s initiative, please see: (http://www.bchydro.com/energy_in_bc/projects/ilm.html)
ATVs and other unlicensed motorbikes and vehicles are not allowed in the park.
About This Park
Located north of Harrison Hot Springs, Sasquatch Provincial Park is characterized by a series of pocket lakes, a unique second-growth and birch forest, and scenic mountain ridges. Hicks and Deer Lakes are ideal for motor-boating and canoeing while Trout Lake provides a tranquil fishing experience. Visitors can also enjoy camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.Park Size: 1,217 hectares
Special Notes:
- There is no overnight parking at Green Point. All vehicles will be towed.
- Campers and swimmers should be aware that SWIMMERS ITCH may be present in Deer Lake and Hicks Lake. For more information on the treatment and prevention of swimmers itch, check out the BC Healthfiles page.
| Campground Dates of Operation
All dates are subject to change without notice |
|
|---|---|
| Opening and Closing Campground Dates: (campground is accessible but may not offer full services such as water, security, etc.) |
|
| – Bench campground | April 1 - October 14 |
| – Hicks Lake campground | March 28 - October 14 |
| – Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground | Open year round - Winter camping from October 15 to March 27, no fees, no services |
| Campground Dates with Full Services and Fees: | |
| – Bench campground | April 1 - October 14 |
| – Hicks Lake campground | March 28 - October 14 |
| – Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground | March 28 - October 14 |
| Campground Reservable Dates: |
|
| – Bench campground | May 17 - September 1 |
| – Hicks Lake campground | March 28 - October 13 |
| – Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground - 100% reservable | March 28 - September 1 |
| Total Number of Vehicle Accessible Campsites: | Bench = 64 Hicks Lake = 72 Lakeside (Deer Lake) = 42 |
| Number of Reservable Campsites, if applicable: (all remaining sites are first-come, first-served) |
Bench = 46 Hicks Lake = 54 Lakeside (Deer Lake) = 40 |
| Note: The above information is for the campground only. Park users can still walk into the park if conditions such as weather permit. Check the "Attention Visitor Notice" above for park alerts. | |
Reservations
All reserveable, vehicle accessible campsites and group sites must be reserved through Discover Camping. First-come first-served sites are also available.
Campsite Reservations:
Campsite reservations are accepted and first-come, first-served sites are also available.
Group Camp/Picnic Reservations:
Group campsite reservations are accepted at this park through Discover Camping for dates starting March 28 to October 13.
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. Sasquatch Park is located off of Highway 7, six kilometres north of Harrison Hot Springs. Follow the signs through Harrison Hot Springs and Green Point.Maps and Brochures
Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.- Park Map [PDF 328KB]
- Bench/Lakeside campgrounds Map [PDF 95KB]
- Hicks Lake campground Map [PDF 91KB]
Nature and Culture
- History - The park was originally created by Order-in-Council in 1959 and encompassed twenty hectares on the east side of Harrison Lake, a freshwater inland fjord. At this time, the park was named Green Point Park. In 1960, a picnic site was developed at the lakefront. The site included picnic tables, toilets, changehouses, a pressurized water system, a boat launch, and parking for two hundred cars. The adjacent lands containing Hicks, Deer, and Trout Lakes were added in 1968 and the park was renamed Sasquatch Park after the legendary Bigfoot, who is alleged to have roamed the area.
- Wildlife - The diversity of habitats at Sasquatch Park supports a large variety of wildlife species including beaver, mountain goat, woodpeckers, warblers, and vireos. Several rare species have been observed in the park, including the bald eagle, tailed frog, and black petaltail dragonfly. The lakes and streams in the park provide excellent fish habitat for over ten species of fish from the sturgeon, smelt, salmon, catfish, and stickleback families.
Management Planning
Management Planning Information- The Final Sasquatch Provincial Park Management Plan is available in PDF format.
- Sasquatch Final Management Plan [PDF 865KB]
- Figure 1 - Regional Context [PDF 388KB]
- Figure 2 - Zoning [PDF 132KB]
- Figure 5 - Proposed Extension [PDF 59KB]
- Figure 9 - Existing and Proposed Development [PDF 120KB]
Activities Available at this Park
Canoeing
Canoeing is welcome at this park. There are commercial canoe rentals available at Hicks and Deer Lake. There is no canoe/kayak specific camping available.
Cycling
Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.
Fishing
There is freshwater fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and brook char. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Hiking
Sasquatch Park has two easy hiking trails and one interpretive trail. The Hicks Lake Trail is approximately 4 km return with an estimated time of 1 1/2 hours. The Deer Lake Trail, which does not go all around the lake, is approximately 2 km return. The Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail is approximately a 500 metre loop.
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.
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.
Interpretive Programs
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has a fun, hands on, Learn to Fish Program that will teach basic angling skills to youth under 16 years old. Click here for
more information about the sessions.
Pets on Leash
Pets/domestic animals are permitted to be off-leash only when they are swimming.
In the Green Point day-use area on either side of the boat launch, but only 200 metres from the boat launch on the right side (northside). Also at Hicks Lake on the left side (eastside) of the boat launch and Deer Lake on the right side (southside) of the boat launch. Otherwise pets/domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in 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 areas are provided at a few areas in the park. Buoys mark off swimming areas. Deer and Hicks Lake are relatively warm during the summer but Harrison Lake can be cool. Hicks lake and Deer Lake have sandy beaches, while Harrison Lake has a rocky beach. High winds can come up quickly on Harrison Lake.
Swimmers itch may be present at Deer Lake and Hicks Lake. To prevent swimmers itch, check out the BC Healthfiles page. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
Swimmers itch may be present at Deer Lake and Hicks Lake. To prevent swimmers itch, check out the BC Healthfiles page. There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
Waterskiing
There are waterskiing opportunities available on Harrison Lake.
Wildlife Viewing
There are wildlife viewing opportunities available on the Beaver Pond trail. Please keep your distance when viewing animals.
Windsurfing
There are windsurfing opportunities available on Harrison Lake.
Facilities Available at this Park
Boat Launch
There are two paved boat launches in the park - at Hicks Lake and Green Point day-use areas. There is a gravel boat launch at Deer Lake. All boat launches are single wide.
- Deer Lake has a car top launch and only electric motors are permitted.
- Hicks Lake allows motors with a maximum of 10 horsepower.
- Trout Lake does not permit motor boats.
- Harrison Lake does not have motor restrictions.
- Waterskiing and windsurfing are only available on Harrison Lake.
Campfires
Campfires are permitted in the provided fire rings only. Fire restrictions may be in place during times of high forest fire ratings. No campfires are permitted in the day-use areas.
While campfires are allowed and campfire rings are provided at each campsite, we encourage visitors to conserve wood and protect the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using campstoves instead. Firewood can be purchased in the park or you may bring your own wood. Fees for firewood are set locally and may vary from park to park. Limited burning hours or campfire bans may be implemented. To preserve vegetation and ground cover, please don’t gather firewood from the area around your campsite or elsewhere in the park (this is a ticketable offence under the Park Act). Dead wood is an important habitat element for many plants and animals and it adds organic matter to the soil.
While campfires are allowed and campfire rings are provided at each campsite, we encourage visitors to conserve wood and protect the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using campstoves instead. Firewood can be purchased in the park or you may bring your own wood. Fees for firewood are set locally and may vary from park to park. Limited burning hours or campfire bans may be implemented. To preserve vegetation and ground cover, please don’t gather firewood from the area around your campsite or elsewhere in the park (this is a ticketable offence under the Park Act). Dead wood is an important habitat element for many plants and animals and it adds organic matter to the soil.
Drinking Water
Cold water taps are located throughout Lakeside (Deer Lake) and Bench campgrounds. There are hand pumps at Hicks Lake and Bench campgrounds. The only day-use area with water taps is Green Point.
Group Camping
There is one group campsite available at Hicks Lake, and is separated from other campsites. This site can accommodate 15 - 40 people. There is a covered shelter available. There are no barbeque attachments on the picnic tables. Site is reservable from March 29 to October 13. Click here for reservation information.
Youth group camping charges per night are $1/person (6+), with a $50 minimum and $150 maximum.
Regular group camping charges per night are the base rate for the site, which is $70.00/group site/night, plus $4/adult (16+, minimum charge for 15 adults), plus $1/child (6-15).
Picnic Areas
There are day-use/picnicking areas in Hicks Lake and Lakeside (Deer Lake) campgrounds. The Green Point day-use area has picnic tables and a parking area. There are grassy areas at both the Green Point day-use on Harrison Lake and the Hicks Lake day-use areas. The beaches are sandy at Hicks Lake and Deer Lake, and rocky at the Green Point area. There are barbeque attachments on the picnic tables. Bring your own barbeque and briquettes. There are no fire pits and open fires are NOT permitted in the day-use area. There is a beach area open to off-leash dogs near the boat launch areas. The Deer Lake campground has a playground on the beach. The day-use areas are accessible by foot if the gate is locked. The nearest stores are at Harrison Hot Springs.
Pit or Flush Toilets
There are pit toilets throughout the campgrounds and park. Flush toilets are available at the Green Point day-use area which also has electrical outlets for hair dryers, etc.
Playground
The adventure playground is located in Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground. There is a grassy area. No horseshoe pitches or sand boxes available.
Sani-Station/Dump
A sani-station/dump is available during the collecting season. It is located on the main park road between Trout Lake and turnoff to Hicks Lake Campground.
Sani-station Use Fee: $5.00 per discharge
Vehicle Accessible Camping
This park offers vehicle accessible campsites. Campsite reservations are accepted and first-come, first-served sites are also available.
There are three campgrounds at this park - Hicks Lake campground, Bench campground and Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground. There are no pull-through or double sites available. Campsites have tent pads and located amongst the trees.
There is no parking available for extra vehicles; the maximum is 2 vehicles per site. There is no gate house and the gate is not locked during the camping season. If there is no staff to help you locate a site, check the reservation board (located at the entrance of each campground), then find a campsite with no ticket number on the post. Park staff will come by to collect camping fees.
Walk-in camping is not permitted if the gate is locked. The closest store is in Harrison Hot Springs approximately 6 kilometres away. There is a pay phone in the park at the Green Point day-use area.
Hicks Lake and Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground:
There are three campgrounds at this park - Hicks Lake campground, Bench campground and Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground. There are no pull-through or double sites available. Campsites have tent pads and located amongst the trees.
There is no parking available for extra vehicles; the maximum is 2 vehicles per site. There is no gate house and the gate is not locked during the camping season. If there is no staff to help you locate a site, check the reservation board (located at the entrance of each campground), then find a campsite with no ticket number on the post. Park staff will come by to collect camping fees.
Walk-in camping is not permitted if the gate is locked. The closest store is in Harrison Hot Springs approximately 6 kilometres away. There is a pay phone in the park at the Green Point day-use area.
Hicks Lake and Lakeside (Deer Lake) campground:
Vehicle Accessible Camping Fee: $21.00 per party / night
BC Senior's Rate (day after Labour Day to June 14 only): $10.50 per senior party/night.
Read the User Fees Policy for information on Senior Camping Discounts.
Bench campground:
Vehicle Accessible Camping Fee: $18.00 per party / night
BC Senior's Rate (day after Labour Day to June 14 only): $9.00 per senior party/night. Read the User Fees Policy for information on Senior Camping Discounts.
Wheelchair Access
There are wheelchair accessible toilets available at the Green Point day-use area.
Winter Camping
Lakeside Campground on Deer Lake is open for the winter from October 15 to March 27, no fees are charged and no services are provided.
