As visitors return to outdoor destinations across the Cariboo this spring, Cedar Point Park in Likely received a refreshed look that brought life back to its historic displays. With support from Northern Development’s Community Places program, the Likely and District Chamber of Commerce led a project to restore and revitalize the park’s outdoor mining museum, helping ensure it continues to welcome visitors for years to come.
Located along Quesnel Lake, Cedar Point Park has long been a well-loved campground, known for its old-growth cedars and scenic lakeside setting. Over time, it has also become a destination for those interested in the region’s history, serving as a central stop along the Gold Rush corridor that connects communities like Barkerville Historic Town and the broader Gold Rush Trail. With $20,125 in funding toward a $30,854 project, the initiative focused on restoring aging infrastructure and improving safety while preserving the authenticity of the site.
The need for the project became clear as visitor feedback highlighted the condition of the displays in one of the community’s main attractions. As a destination that draws campers, history enthusiasts and travellers exploring the region, maintaining the quality of Cedar Point Park remains important to supporting tourism in Likely.
Work included cleaning and repainting antique mining equipment such as a steam shovel and steam engine, repairing and replacing wooden structures, updating signage and revitalizing existing mining features and passages. Wherever possible, locally milled and salvaged wood was used, maintaining the character of the displays while addressing wear that had begun to impact both safety and visitor experience.
By restoring these heritage features, the project helps to preserve an important piece of the Cariboo’s mining history while enhancing the visitor experience. It also supports the local economy by encouraging travellers to stop, stay and explore the area.
