Jones Lake

See Google Maps for the location of Jones Lake Reservoir and to get specific directions to a lake that features spectacular glacier views. Located 42 kilometre (km) east of Chilliwack, there are two camp sites, Jones Lake Main, and Jones Lake West.

Note that road conditions to Jones Lake may be poor, even during the summer. The road is an active logging road with steep, rough sections, designed for 4x4 vehicles with high clearance. Access for small cars, RVs and trailers is not recommended.

Heavy snowfall restricts vehicle access to the recreation area during winter months.

Open from May 1 to October 31, the recreation opportunities at Jones Lake include camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, and fishing. Hiking, mountain biking and backcountry exploration are also popular in the area.

There are two recreation areas on the north shore of the reservoir and both have designated wheelchair accessible campsites, pit toilets and picnic tables.

• 31 campsites – each with fire ring and picnic table
• 4 pit toilets
• drinking water is not available at the moment; please bring your own water.
• reservoir access for cartop boats

• 6 campsites – each with fire ring and picnic table
• Grassy landing with 7 fire rings and 7 picnic tables
• 2 pit toilets
• drinking water is not available at the moment; please bring your own water.
• reservoir access for cartop boats
• 17 vehicle parking lot

• 18 campsites – each with fire ring and picnic table
• Grassy landing with 2 picnic tables
• 2 pit toilets
• reservoir access for cartop boats
• 6 vehicle parking lot
• sorry, no drinking water here

Jones Lake is home to rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee. 

Kokanee taste great but fishing for them can be a little different.

Things to consider when you fish for kokanee

• Kokanee are usually found in deeper waters as cooler water and depth are important for their feeding and survival. Only fish shallower waters early in the season, or just after dawn or before dusk.
• Choose lures that are bright that contrast the deepwater environments. 
• Scent and bait will often increase your chances of catching kokanee.
• You can catch kokanee all day long. However, with increased traffic during the busy part of the recreation season, kokanee will reside deeper in the lake making them more difficult to catch without the right techniques. Fish early in the morning when the lake isn't as busy.
• Trolling deep at slower speeds can often attract them. Tactics such as "S" turns, stop and go, speed up then down, and other variable actions can also help attract them to bite.

To learn more about kokanee and how to fish for them, visit Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. and Jones Lake fishing reports.

Hydroelectric operations create special hazards for visitor safety. Releases of water from the spillway occur suddenly and without notice. For your own safety, avoid designated danger zones around the spillway and intake structures and obey all posted signs.

Boaters in Jones Lake Reservoir should be aware of submerged hazards, floating debris, changing water levels, strong winds, large waves and cold water. High-speed boating and water skiing activities are not recommended. Obey all boater safety regulations. Ensure that you have an accurate map.

Carry emergency and safety equipment, including but not limited to extra shear pins and a propeller. Ensure familiarity with local conditions and reservoir hazards. Inform others of your destination and when you plan to return. Check the weather.

Follow the campfire safety rules.

Consumption of alcohol and drugs is prohibited on BC Hydro property and is strictly enforced by the RCMP.

Campsites at Jones Lake are non-reservable, with a 14-overnight visit limit per season. Campers failing to occupy sites overnight may have their equipment removed at their expense so that others may use the site.

Firewood is available for a small fee (cash only). Please inquire with the Recreational Area Warden.

Keep fires contained to fire rings.

Report forest fires to 1 800 663 5555.

• Pets must be kept on a leash within the Recreation Area.
• Firearms and hunting are prohibited within the recreation area
• Use of ATVs is prohibited within the recreation area.
• Deposit all refuse in the containers provided.
• The cabins located immediately south of the Recreation Area are privately owned.
• The nearest public telephone is at Peters Road, Exit #151, about 2 km west on Highway 1 from the Jones Lake Forest Service Road.
• This Recreation Area is open to the public year round, but is only maintained May 1 to October 15.
• During the off-season please pack out your garbage and leave the area tidy for other visitors.

Camping can bring you into contact with many species of wildlife including deer, eagles, bears and cougars. Never feed wildlife, and keep your pets under control.

Ensure that all food materials, garbage and fish entrails are bagged securely and placed in the appropriate containers.