The park is located at the old town site of Emory, which during the mid 1800s was a bustling trading settlement with a population of about 500. During the 1858 gold rush, the area was the site of one of the richest gold finds. But when gold prospects diminished, people moved north up the Fraser River. In 1879, the Canadian Pacific Railway chose Emory to be its western terminus. The small community grew to a town consisting of thirteen streets with its own newspaper, various shops, a brewery, nine saloons and a sawmill. When the Canadian Pacific Railway decided that nearby Yale would be its major centre, Emory was left to 'sigh and die.' European people first explored this area in 1808 when Simon Fraser came through the area searching for a route to the Pacific Ocean. Before Simon Fraser, Coast Salish people inhabited the area.

There is not much to do in the way of typical recreational activities, as the main recreational activity seems to be just relaxing in a peaceful environment away from the pressures of city life. Emory creek and the Fraser River do provide some recreational activities. You can try your luck for salmon in the mighty Fraser River or for the gold that eluded miners over a decade ago. When panning in BC be sure not to encroach on other's mineral rights.

Historic Emory Creek has 34 vehicle/tent campsites. The park is open from May to mid October, and fees are collected during this time. Conveniently located beside Hwy 1 and the Fraser River, this park fills up quickly in summer. Only basic facilities are provided - picnic tables, pit toilets, fire pits, firewood and water.