Williams Lake is named for Chief William, who was at one time the leader of the Sugar Cane Reserve Natives. The name of Williams Lake dates back to at least April 28, 1860. It takes its name from the white alkali powder that dries on the rocks. The settlement of Horsefly was originally called Harper's Camp after Thaddeus Harper, pioneer rancher and miner. The present name comes from the horseflies that are in abundance in the summer.
Alkali Lake is south of Williams Lake.
It got its name form the landmark patch of alkali in the area. Clinton is north of Cache Creek. Originally known as cut Off Valley or 47 Mile House. In 1863, upon completion of the Cariboo Road, it was given its present name in honor of Henry Pelham Clinton, 5th Duke of Newcastle and the Colonial Secretary 1859-64. Cache Creek Cache Creek flows west into the Bonaparte River.