HUDSON’S HOPE: BC Hydro and the District of Hudson’s Hope are welcoming residents and visitors to the Peace Region with the seasonal opening of several recreation and visitor facilities, highlighted by the official opening of the new D.A. Thomas Recreation Area.
The D.A. Thomas Recreation Area was built as part of BC Hydro’s Site C community investment program under the Site C Clean Energy Project and is owned and maintained by BC Hydro. The site is located on the traditional territory of Treaty 8 First Nations.
“The new D.A. Thomas Recreation Site is about creating lasting access for the community to the outdoor recreation area today and well into the future” said Matt Wilson, Senior Vice President of Safety at BC Hydro. “Our responsibility doesn’t end once a space is opened; it means caring for it over the long term so people can enjoy it safely for generations. Through ongoing maintenance, strong safety practices, and environmental stewardship, we’re helping ensure this site and all the others in the Peace Region remain welcoming, reliable places for the community to connect with nature and each other.”
The seasonal waterfront recreation area offers picnic facilities, an information shelter, and a walking trail that runs along a section of the 2.6‑kilometre shoreline protection berm, providing scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape. A gangway and floating dock for small craft use will be installed in the future.
The opening of the D.A. Thomas Recreation Area coincides with the seasonal reopening of additional recreation and visitor amenities across Hudson’s Hope as the community prepares for the May long weekend and summer visitor season.
The W.A.C. Bennett Dam Visitor Centre is scheduled to open on May 16, while the Dinosaur Boat Launch, District of Hudson’s Hope campgrounds and parks, and the District of Hudson’s Hope Visitor Centre will also open for the season. Upgrades to district campgrounds and parks this year include improvements supported by a $50,000 grant from BC Hydro.
Together, these seasonal openings expand access to outdoor recreation, learning opportunities, and visitor services throughout the community.
“The District is proud to partner with BC Hydro to help expand the recreation experiences available in Hudson’s Hope, said Travous Quibell, Mayor of Hudson’s Hope. “The new D.A. Thomas Recreation Area, along with the seasonal reopening of our campgrounds, parks and Visitor Centre, supports residents and visitors alike by encouraging people to spend time outdoors and explore the Peace Region. We look forward to welcoming everyone for the May long weekend and throughout the summer season.”
BC Hydro is carefully preparing to open our public access sites along the Site C reservoir with a strong focus on safety. Currently, boat launches on the reservoir are projected to open in early summer. This includes the new boat launches at Halfway River and Lynx Creek along with the small craft launch at D.A. Thomas Recreation Area in Hudson’s Hope.
Visitors to the D.A. Thomas Recreation Area and other BC Hydro recreation sites are reminded to follow all posted safety signage and exercise caution. Boaters must obey all safety regulations, carry required emergency equipment, wear life jackets, and remain well clear of BC Hydro dams and structures.
For more information about recreation and visitor opportunities visit BC Hydro's recreation site page.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468