Elbow Lake Recreation Site — Hurley River Road
Elbow Lake Recreation Site is a documented BCFS camp along the Hurley River Forest Service Road, the classic connector between Pemberton and Gold Bridge that almost every overlander running the South Chilcotin eventually drives. The site sits just off the road near Elbow Lake with room for multiple rigs, fire rings, and a pit toilet. It fills up on summer weekends — get in by Thursday or roll through on a weekday. The Hurley itself is a legendary washboard grind, but the scenery through the canyon is worth every rattle.
The Hurley FSR is passable by most high-clearance 2WD rigs in dry conditions, though 4WD is strongly recommended after rain or in early season when sections near the summit can hold snow into June. No drinking water at the site — treat from the lake or carry your own. No cell service once you’re deep in the canyon.
Classic Hurley FSR overnight between Pemberton and Gold Bridge.
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy), British Columbia Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Gold Bridge, BC |
| Miles from pavement | 45 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | June-October |
| Land manager | Other |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |