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.
Park Info
Situated on the shoreline of Kotcho Lake, Kotcho Lake Village Provincial Park is an area of traditional settlement and resource use by the Fort Nelson Indian Band, Dene Tha First Nations.
Park Size: 34 hectares
General Visitor Information
Hikers and campers should be prepared for all weather conditions in this changeable climate. Always carry first-aid equipment and extra clothing and food. Water sources in the backcountry may carry giardia or other parasites. Boil or filter all water when in the backcountry.
The park is located approximately 100 km east of Fort Nelson. There
are no roads to the park. Access is by boat or air. The Helmet Road provides
motorized access to within three km of the park. Access is via the Helmet
Oilfield Road 10 km south of Fort Nelson, then approximately 150 km to
the lake.
Nature & Culture
History - The Fort Nelson Land and Resource Management identified the area for protection in 1997.
Cultural Heritage - The park is a site of traditional First Nation settlement and resource use.
Conservation - Kotcho Lake Village Site Park is situated on the shoreline of Kotcho Lake at the outlet of Kotcho River. Kotcho Lake is a large, very shallow lake located within the Etsho Plateau ecosection, a region of extensive muskeg, lowlands and rolling plateau dominated by boreal white and black spruce.
Online Management planning information for this park is not available at this time.
Activities Available At This Park
Canoeing
Canoeing/kayaking opportunities are limited, as Kotcho Lake is shallow and has many weeds.
Fishing
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.
Swimming
There are no lifeguards on duty at provincial parks.
Facilities Available At This Park
Campfires
No firewood available.
To preserve vegetation and ground cover, please don't gather firewood from the area around your campsite or elsewhere in the park. Dead wood is an important habitat element for many plants and animals and it adds organic matter to the soil. You can conserve firewood and air quality by keeping your campfire small. Limited burning hours or campfire bans may be implemented and some parks may use communal fire rings. Be prepared to bring a portable stove for cooking.
Walk-In/Wilderness Camping
Wilderness, backcountry or walk-in camping is allowed, but no facilities are provided.
