Alexander Mackenzie Landing—often called 22 Mile by locals—is a quiet recreation spot along the shores of Williston Lake. It’s a popular place for boating, fishing, and camping, offering easy access to the water and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
Mackenzie Landing sits along the shores of Williston Lake just 8 km northwest of Mackenzie. This historic recreation site—named in 1993 to honour explorer Alexander Mackenzie’s 1793 journey—is a versatile spot for day-use visits and overnight stays alike.
Nestled just minutes from town, this recreation site offers experiential access to nature—warm sand beaches, panoramic views, and forested peace.
Access: Forest Service Road
Facilities: Camp sites, Boat Launch, Tables, Pit Toilets
Fees: None
There are 2 main areas of Alexander Mackenzie Landing – the day use area and the camp sites.
This small, rustic site is often used as a launch point for exploring Williston Lake’s many bays and islands. Anglers come here for lake trout, rainbow trout, and northern pike, while campers enjoy the peaceful setting and wide-open skies perfect for stargazing.
The area is also a great spot for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and simply taking in the vast expanse of Canada’s largest man-made lake.
Facilities at Alexander Mackenzie Landing are minimal, so it’s best suited for visitors who are prepared to bring what they need and pack out what they bring in. The boat launch is gravel, and there are open areas for setting up camp, though no serviced sites.
Whether you’re heading out for a day on the water, looking for a place to camp, or just want to stop and take in the scenery, Mackenzie Landing is a gateway to adventure on Williston Lake.
Tips for Visiting:
- Bring all necessary supplies—services are limited.
- A valid BC freshwater fishing license is required for angling.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions on the lake.
- Watch for wildlife, including bears, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Getting There
From Mackenzie, head south on Highway 39 and turn right onto BC Hydro Morfee Substation Rd and then right onto Parsnip Forest Development Road. You can also access the Forest Development Rd from the north via Alberta Dr.
The road is gravel but generally passable by most vehicles in the summer.
Camping at Alexander Mackenzie Landing
Mackenzie Landing Campsite is a 22-site campground open typically from May 15 to October 15—no reservations, free to use (14-night maximum). It is first come, first serve.
Amenities include:
- Sandy beach
- Single-wide boat launch
- Event seating area
- Four pit toilets
- Grassed open space
- Display signs and shelters
- Designated wheelchair-accessible sites and pit toilets
- Sorry, no drinking water
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Motor boating
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
Facilities & Practical Info
- Free camping, no reservations, 14-night max
- Pit toilets, picnic tables, no drinking water or hookups
- Bring supplies—including water and firewood if needed
Safety & Etiquette
- Be bear aware, secure all food and trash
- Follow fire regulations and park rules
- Boaters: be prepared for changing lake conditions and submerged hazards
- ATVs and dirt bikes are prohibited within the recreation area.
Alexander Mackenzie Landing
Looking for a spot to picnic or cool off on a hot day? Alexander Mackenzie Landing offers beautiful beaches and a covered picnic area for visitors.
Tips & Safety Notes
- Watch for changing water levels, submerged stumps, snags—common hazards on Williston Reservoir. Boaters should carry spare parts like propellers. The current Willison Reservoir elevation levels can be found here.
- Wildlife is active—expect deer, bears, and cougars. Keep pets leashed, control food and garbage, and follow fire regulations.
- In winter, the frozen lake poses hazards like slush, pressure ridges, open water—use extreme caution.
- Boating and fishing require care—check local advisories (e.g., mercury levels upon Williston Lake).
Fire pits are provided in some of the picnic areas. Please follow BC Wildfire Service restrictions and recommendations. Please ensure your fires are properly extinguished before leaving the area.
Community Photographs of Alexander Mackenzie Landing
