10 of the Best Camping Spots in Northern Alberta
If the Rockies are just a little out of reach for a weekend getaway, no problem! There are a ton of beautiful lakes, great fishing, and both serviced and unserviced campgrounds in beautiful northern Alberta. In no particular order, here are a few campsite options north of Edmonton and Jasper!
1. Two Lakes
As its name lets on, Two Lakes Provincial Parks features a pair of lakes tucked away in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Boasting three campground options (two on one lake, one on the other), Two Lakes is a serene destination for the outdoorsy type: hiking, fishing, bird watching, you name it. Keep in mind that the lots at these three campgrounds are all unserviced, which makes for a peaceful and off-the-grid style camping experience (unless of course you have a generator)!
2. Williamson Provincial Park, Sturgeon Lake
For those living in Grande Prairie or Valleyview, this small provincial park situated on the south banks of Sturgeon Lake is the perfect little get-away without worrying about venturing too far from home. Out-of-towners will also enjoy Williamson for its more tucked away feel (compared to larger Young's Point), beach area, playground, and easy access from Highway 43.
Nestled away in a boreal forest just west of Spirit River, this lake is known for its great fishing and boating as well as the abundance of powered lots! Swimming and beach use is a plus for those hot summer days, while the baseball area, horsehoe pit, and group use area are perfect for bigger family get-togethers.
4. Musreau Lake
Located just off of Highway 40 and south of Grande Prairie by about 80 kms, Musreau is a spring-fed lake tucked away in a private, forested area. A long, sandy beach and clear, deep water makes for a perfect swimming hole! Nearly 70 unserviced sites await both RVers and tenters alike at Musreau Lake.
5. Dunvegan
Picture by: Travel Alberta
If striking river views are more of your thing, don't hesitate to check out Dunvegan Park and Campground located on the banks of the Peace River. Enjoy powered campsites, river fishing, hiking and walks, plus unrivaled photo opportunities of the historic Dunvegan Bridge!
6. Hilliard's Bay, Lesser Slave Lake
Boasting the largest lake in the area, Hilliard's Bay is definitely a campground to hit up (if you have not been already)! It's prime location on the shores of Lesser Slave Lake make it an obvious hot-spot for fishermen and women, and an exciting lake to try wakeboarding, tubing, jetskiing, and more! Best of all, the park has over 170 campsites available, both serviced and unserviced, so there's sure to be room for you on your next visit to Lesser Slave Lake.
7. Kleskun Hill
The backdrop of many local weddings and other special occasions, Kleksun Hill is a prehistoric wonder located in the Grande Prairie region. Camp amidst Alberta's northermost badlands and explore the native grasslands, but watch out for prickly cacti in the area! There are only 9 sites in the park on a first come first serve basis, but block bookings of 5 or more sites are available for reservation. Rent out the small hall and church in the park, or simply take advantage of the free firewood and quiet location for an unforgettable night under the stars.
8. Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park
For campers looking to settle for a night or two in the Peace River and Grimshaw area, Queen Elizabeth campground on Lac Cardinal is the perfect stop. The day-use and campground area together feature beach volleyball nets, running trails, a boat launch, and a sandy sprawling beach. 15 and 20 amp power sites, plus a few unserviced sites make this campground an excellent option for any type of camper.
A simple, but breathtaking campground just off the water's edge of the Simonette River, this is an ideal spot for river boaters in the area! Find the southbound service road to Simonette River Campground between Bezanson and Debolt off of Highway 40.
10. Sulphur Gates
Saving perhaps the best for last, Sulphur Gates is a campground just outside of Grande Cache. It's a great jumping off point for hikers and equestrian riders wanting to explore Willmore Wilderness Park, and features a lookout platform with unreal views of the Sulphur River Canyon!
Enjoy your camping in northern Alberta and let us know which campground you like best!
All information and photos courtesy of Alberta Parks unless otherwise stated.