Hydroelectric power stations can be built in such a way as to create nature parks and promote recreational activities such as canoeing and portaging. Sites may also provide appropriate habitats for certain species and create fishing and nature interpretation sites.

For example, when the Rimouski power dam was built in the mid 90s, salmon pools in the river were improved and more were developped. Today, salmon spawns in these pools, which are also used to observe and study the species and, of course, for fishing!

Most plans for the development of new hydropower sites require that a tourism component be included. As with every aspect related to projects, the creation of tourist sites follow strict environmental procedures and are subjected to thorough environmental impact assessments.