Photograph by Thomas Drasdauskis
Welcome to the official website of Barkerville Historic Town. This website should provide you with all of the information you need to plan your visit to the largest historic site in British Columbia. Each year, thousands of visitors from all over the world travel to the foothills of the Cariboo mountains to take in this one of a kind heritage attraction, much like miners and prospectors did during the original gold rushes.
In 1861, a miner named Billy Barker arrived in the region, along with a wave of prospectors from all over North America and the world. While here, Barker struck a fabulously rich pay streak. As a result, in 1862, Barkerville was born, helping set the stage for the settlement of British Columbia and its eventual confederation with Canada. Today, Barkerville is a historic site like no other. Unlike many gold rush towns from this era - which have long disappeared - Barkerville remains a thriving place, rich in history and full of life. You can tour the town with one of the colourful characters from Barkerville’s past, watch the notorious Judge Begbie strike fear into the hearts of history’s criminals, witness authentic gold rush theatre, and see a real Cornish Waterwheel in action. Pan for gold with your family and friends, visit Barkerville’s well preserved Chinatown, and go back to school in the 1800s. Or, learn about the town at your own pace by visiting our historic buildings and beautiful displays. Our town's merchants, restaurants and accommodations will provide you with everything you need for a genuinely comfortable trip into the province's past. Come and see for yourself. In fact, there is so much to see and do at Barkerville that most people stay at least two days.
For a truly unique experience, stay overnight in Barkerville at one of our Bed and Breakfasts.
A wide variety of additional facilities are available in Wells and nearby Bowron Lake.
NO PETS, please. For the safety of our visitors and site animals, only service dogs are permitted within the townsite.
Barkerville Historic Town wishes to acknowledge the generous support of our 2010 corporate sponsors:
For a complete listing of Barkerville's 2010 corporate sponsors, please visit our Get Involved page.
Winter Hours: You may visit Barkerville any time of year. During the winter, gates are open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. No programs, retail or food services are available, but check with the St. George Hotel for availability of accommodation right in Barkerville. Food, gas, and additional accommodation are available in the nearby town of Wells.
