The Largest Artificial Lake In British Columbia Is A Freshwater Beauty With Fishing, Camping, And Mountain Views

British Columbia has plenty of all-natural beauty, and one of those is Williston Reservoir in northeastern BC. Surrounded by thick forests and the sky-scraping peaks of the northern Rockies, this massive artificial lake, which was created by damming the Peace River in the 1960s, is certainly a stunner. Stretching 156 miles and with a surface area spanning over 680 square miles, it's the biggest reservoir in the province. By volume, it's also the seventh-biggest reservoir in the world (per BC Hydro). That's a lot of water, which, thanks to the Peace River hydroelectric system, generates power for much of the province. 

It's also an aquatic paradise for fishing and boating. Offering anglers hundreds of square miles of open water teeming with trout and whitefish, Williston Reservoir (also referred to as Williston Lake) is a popular spot for freshwater fishing. Boat ramps can be found around the lake, providing access to different sections. While sailing around and dropping lines, visitors can take in sweeping views of mountains, woodlands, and cliffs. Towns are few and far between, so camping and RVing are usually the go-to options for overnight stays.

Williston Reservoir isn't exactly an easy place to reach. The nearest airport, Prince George Airport (YXS), is several hours away in Prince George. Flights from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) take just under an hour and a half. From there, it's a two-hour drive north to the town of Mackenzie at the lake's southern end. 

The Canadian Rockies have no shortage of gorgeous lakes, like the lovely Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park, but Williston Lake is a standout with its immense size, wild forests, and towering peaks. Here, fishing is activity number one. Anglers can try their hand at hooking a variety of species, including rainbow trout, bull trout, lake trout, lake whitefish, and mountain whitefish. A freshwater fishing license is required, and anglers will need to check the Government of British Columbia's most recent Freshwater Fishing Regulation Synopsis to see if there are any restrictions.

While shore fishing can be found in waterfront recreation areas like Cut Thumb Bay, boating offers a wider range and more possibilities. Boat launches are available around the reservoir, with several along Peace Reach, including the Dunlevy Boat Launch and Elizabeth Creek. There's also a launch at Alexander Mackenzie's Landing, a campground and outdoor recreation area near Mackenzie. Different launches may be inaccessible when the lake water is low, so be sure to check water elevation levels in advance. If you don't have your own boat, fishing trips can be booked through Williston Lake Outfitters.

There are only a few rugged forest service roads along the shore, which, due to the topography, often loop back into the forest, hiding the lake views. This means boating is the best way to admire the snow-sprinkled peaks, rocky cliffs, and lush woodlands hugging the lakeshore and horizon. If you prefer to be on foot, head to provincial parks like Butler Ridge for hikes leading to scenic viewpoints overlooking the water. In winter, the reservoir freezes over, so it's also possible to go snowmobiling out onto the ice and take in views of the mountains when they're covered in snow.

Apart from a handful of towns, remote tribal communities, and the odd landing strip, the shores of Williston Lake are largely undeveloped. This means camping is the de facto mode of stay. With this in mind, be prepared and pack all the right gear, including the right kinds of camping clothing. Anything you pack in needs to be packed out. Many campgrounds here are seasonal and first-come, first-served, so check openings and have backup plans in case sites are full. Wi-Fi and cell reception are often limited or nonexistent. Bring cash for fees. You'll be camping in wildlife-filled areas, so practice animal safety and store food properly. Lastly, many camping areas are located along rudimentary forest service roads, so you'll need a sturdy vehicle that can handle the terrain, especially if you're hauling a camper or trailer.

For campers who prefer access to amenities and hook-ups, a popular spot is the Williston Lake Resort, which sits close to the W.A.C. Bennett Dam. Here, a seasonal campground offers 20 RV spots and designated tent camping sites, plus washrooms, fire pits, shower facilities, and picnic tables. RVers can choose between serviced slots with water and power or unserviced ones. The resort also has a log cabin lodge with cozy indoor rooms. Wilderness camping is allowed in nearby Butler Ridge Provincial Park.

Near Mackenzie, there's the Alexander Mackenzie's Landing campground. Open seasonally from May to October, it offers a campground for tents and RVs, a boat launch, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Just up the road in Heather-Dina Lakes Provincial Park, there's more camping available, with accessible frontcountry sites, a developed five-unit campground for tents or trailers, and wilderness camping areas. Beyond Heather-Dina Lakes, there's also camping at Cut Thumb Bay Recreation Site and Six Mile Bay Recreation Site.