Rooney Lake is a pretty little lake; it is visible from the highway, just a few miles past the Kita Lake Rest Stop. To reach the only rec site on the lake requires you to take the Adams River Road and turn onto the Rooney Lake Road immediately after crossing the Rooney Creek bridge (it’s the first bridge you cross after leaving the highway). Watch for the rec site on the left, at the end of a small pullout. It’s a first-come, first-served spot.
There is room for a few people to camp here, and it’s nice and private. The views are beautiful, and the sound of the creek flowing out of the lake is soothing. The bird life is incredible, and you could see bears and elk in the area.
Rooney Lake was recently stocked with 1000 cutthroat trout and provides an excellent fishery for both the cutthroat and Dolly Varden char. It is best fished by canoe or kayak. There is no boat ramp, just a short trail to the lake.
If you continue up the Rooney Lake Road, it will take you back out to the highway. Somewhere near this lake is a place where crystals can be found, but it’s hard to find it though. I have been looking to find this spot for years unsuccessfully.
During the winter months, you can observe a wonderful waterfall high above the opposite side of the highway. We have made a drone video of this set of falls. When I locate it, I will post it here.
There is another nice spot to camp further down the Adams River Road, turn right bridge. Drive a few km down the road until you find a small road at the end of a clear cut, which takes you into a wonderful place on the Adams River with room for several groups to camp.