Cariboo River Park is a linear BC Parks wilderness area protecting much of the upper Cariboo River and surrounding wetlands, from Kimball Lake downstream to where the river enters Cariboo Lake. BC Parks describes it as critical habitat for wildlife, especially moose and waterfowl.
The park is not regularly serviced or patrolled.
Cariboo River Park is for experienced water travellers who want a nearly natural river valley, old-growth, estuaries, waterfalls, wetlands, and wildlife viewing by canoe, raft, powerboat, or road-based vantage points. BC Parks says waterfalls, old-growth, and estuaries can be accessed by canoe or power boat.
Only paddlers experienced with moving water should attempt this section of the Cariboo River. The river is mellow compared with some sections outside the park, but BC Parks warns about sweepers, deadheads, sand and gravel bars, and high water during spring runoff or heavy rains.
The park provides winter habitat for moose, nesting and rearing habitat for waterfowl, and riparian habitat for many large and small mammals. Fishing is listed for rainbow trout and bull trout, and winter use includes cross-country skiing and snowshoeing without set trails.
Plan around experienced moving-water canoeing or kayaking, rafting, powerboating, wildlife viewing from water or the 3100 Road bridge, rainbow and bull trout fishing, hunting in season, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Swimming is not recommended because of dangerous currents. Bring drinking water, wear PFDs, drive active logging roads from Likely or Barkerville with headlights on, and do not disturb cultural sites or artifacts.
