Crooked River lies within the Fraser Basin, an irregularly shaped basin of gently rolling hills and shallow lakes covering much of the North Central B.C. Three beautiful lakes are contained within this 970 hectare park. The centre of activity of this park, an hour's drive north of Prince George, is beach-fringed Bear Lake. The fine, sandy beaches are some of the best in the region and are favourites of swimmers and sunbathers. Fishing, hiking, camping and nature study are also popular activities with outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors like to hike to nearby Square Lake or along the willow-lined Crooked River, the original route of early explorers. A natural feature in the park is Livingston Springs (which are cold water springs that run year round).