This beautiful park was established in 1940 and was dedicated to Mr. William Smithe, who was the Premier of British Columbia from 1883 to 1887. Premier Lake Provincial Park is nestled against the west slopes of the Rocky Mountains. The emerald green lake is one of the key recreational fishing lakes in the area. Park facilities include 57 campsites and a large lakeside day-use area with 6 picnic tables. Park amenities include solar bag shower (no bags provided), adventure playground, boat ramp and hiking trails. This site was once used by the Ktunaxa (Kootenay) First Nations as a camp area and food fishery. The park also protects lake ecology, especially that of lake trout. Signs along Staples Creek interpret the life cycle of trout and the valued work of the Kootenay Trout Hatchery.

Turn east off of Highway 93/95 north of Skookumchuck at Provincial Park highway signage to a 15 km (9 mi) paved and gravel road to the park.

Premier Lake and four smaller lakes, Canuck, Yankee, Cats Eye and Quartz offer a unique and varied fishing experience in a secluded and pleasant park atmosphere. Hiking trails connect the lakes in the park; they are short loop trails offering easy access for families to these picturesque lakes. The duration of the hike can be between 1.5 to 4 hrs. The area is rich in wildlife: Premier Ridge, west of the lake, is an important wintering range for elk, deer and bighorn sheep. Forests of Douglas fir and western larch are common in the park. Osprey, eagle, heron, king fisher, numerous forest birds and water fowl can also be seen.

The Park and campground is open year-round; however, camping fees are only collected from May to September.

Located 60 kilometres (36 mi) northeast of Kimberley, south of Fairmont Hot Springs is Premier Lake Provincial Park. Turn east off of Highway 93/95 at Provincial Park highway signage to a 15 km (9 mi) paved and gravel road to the park.