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Dinosaur Reservoir

Dinosaur reservoir boat launch

Boating and fishing near Hudson's Hope

In northeast British Columbia, near the town of Hudson's Hope, Dinosaur Reservoir is part of the Peace hydroelectric system. This system includes three major dams: W.A.C. Bennett, Peace Canyon, and Site C.

The Peace Canyon Dam impounds the Peace River, forming Dinosaur Reservoir. The reservoir is downstream of the W.A.C Bennett Dam which is the controlling structure for the Williston Reservoir. Downstream of Peace Canyon Dam is the Site C reservoir with the Site C dam located just southwest of Fort St. John.

Dinosaur Reservoir has a single BC Hydro boat launch, seasonal dock and gangway, and is an excellent fishing lake, with bull and rainbow trout, and rocky mountain and lake whitefish most prevalent.

A campground is available adjacent to the boat launch which is operated by the District of Hudson’s Hope.

The Dinosaur Reservoir is located on the traditional territory of Treaty 8 First Nations.
 

Where it is

Dinosaur Reservoir is located near the town of Hudson's Hope, about 95 km west of Fort St. John via Highway 29, or about 60 km north of Chetwynd, via Highway 29.

Need directions? View a map of BC Hydro recreation areas and get specific directions to Dinosaur Reservoir.

Visitor information

Camping is available at the District of Hudson’s Hope’s Dinosaur Lake Campground.

The campground operates from the May long weekend to the Labour Day long weekend. It is located about 8 kilometres by road from Hudson’s Hope.

Use this Google Map link for directions.

The BC Hydro’s Dinosaur Reservoir boat launch, located within Dinosaur Lake Park and Campground between the W.A.C Bennett Dam and Peace Canyon Dam, features a double‑lane concrete ramp, seasonal dock and gangway, and a dredged basin that provides reliable access for boaters.

Some locations on the reservoir provide excellent angling for bull trout, lake trout, rainbow trout, rocky mountain whitefish and lake whitefish.

Fishing licenses are required; these may be purchased at local merchants or Government Agents. Be sure to check the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis for provincial angling restrictions.

Dinosaur Reservoir offers winter recreation opportunities for visitors. Anglers enjoy shore and ice‑based fishing, with winter conditions supporting species such as lake trout.

As conditions can vary due to weather and hydroelectric operations, users should always exercise caution, check ice thickness, and follow posted safety information.

Boating and other safety information

All persons intending to operate a boat on Dinosaur Reservoir should always:

  • Obey all boater safety laws, which include carrying emergency equipment and wearing lifejackets.
  • Carry extra shearpins and a spare propeller.
  • Inform others of your destination and when you are to return.
  • Observe all warning signs and stay well away from BC Hydro's dams and structures.

Extreme caution and an awareness and appreciation of hazards are essential for safe boating on Dinosaur Reservoir.

Reservoir levels can fluctuate up to 3 metres over short periods due to hydroelectric operations. The launch’s basin was dredged and erosion control improvements added to support safe access, but boaters should still watch for shallow areas, submerged hazards, and rapidly changing conditions.

Dam intakes cause strong surface and underwater currents. For your own safety and the safety of others please remain well away from dams and structures.

Get information about wildfires, earthquakes and floods.