Nicknamed the Gateway to the North, Big River is located on Highway 55 around 135 km (83.9 mi.) north west of Prince Albert and 16 km (9.9 mi.) west of Prince Albert National Park. With a population of around 741 people, Big River's economy is based largely on lumber and tourism.

Big River's heritage properties include the 1910 Canadian Northern Railway station. The town is home to a number of artists, and musicians bring the Ness Creek Music Festival alive every summer. Nature enthusiasts will find a variety of activities to do in the countryside around Big River. In summer, fishing off the end of Main Street, as well as camping, hiking, and boating, are available. The visitor information booth, open in summers, can be found at the docks. Cowan Lake offers fishing for Northern Pike, Perch, or Walleye, as well as campgrounds, a boat launch, a dock, and a playground with a baseball diamond.

The Big River Skating Curling Arena and Community Hall are situated nearby. In the neighboring countryside, forestry industry tours can be arranged. Winter brings skiing at Ski Timber Ridge, around 3 km (1.9 mi.) southeast of town via Highway 55, with a full day lodge on site and cross-country ski and snowmobiling trails. A little further from town is Prince Albert National Park, the former home of Grey Owl and with rich wildlife viewing opportunities.