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Alberta Parks
Alberta Provincial Parks
Camping at Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park
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Dragomir Drajs Vujnovic
Alberta Provincial Parks
Aurora Borealis at Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park
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Alberta Parks
Alberta Provincial Parks
Sunrise at Pigeon Lake Provincial Park
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Alberta Parks
Alberta Provincial Parks
Cycling at Spray Valley Provincial Park
By Mary Fitl, Alberta Parks, photos by Alberta Parks
Has cabin fever got you thinking about camping, beaches, green trees and playing outside? It may seem a long way off, but spring will be here before you know it, and the May long weekend signals the start of the camping season in Alberta. Provincial parks offer a variety of facilities in parks all across Alberta, perfect settings for making memorable moments.
Campgrounds fill quickly on long weekends, so we encourage campers to reserve well in advance to ensure they get a site. Reservations are available online at ReserveAlbertaParks.ca or by calling 1-877-537-2757. Campsite reservations begin on Tuesday, February 20 with staggered times by region:
- 9 am Mountain Standard Time for southern Alberta parks
- 11 am for Kananaskis region parks
- 1 pm for central Alberta parks and
- 3 pm for northern Alberta parks.
Return to an old favourite or try something new
Do you crave sweeping mountain vistas or clear northern lakes? Are you seeking the perfect prairie sunset or a cool shaded cottonwood forest to hang your hammock? Or is your paradise where swift rivers flow through the boreal forest? Try a park you haven't visited before or explore an entire region, staying in different parks along your route.
Spring Time in Alberta
After the May long weekend, most facilities are up and running for the season, and visiting a park in spring or early summer is an extraordinary experience. Migrating birds fill the morning with songs, and wildlife is moving from wintering grounds to their summer homes. Evenings are just cool enough for snuggling a little closer to the campfire, and dark skies are perfect for stargazing before bedtime. Come prepared for the cooler temperatures, and enjoy the peace and quiet as well as the sights and fresh smells of spring in the air.
Before you venture out in the early spring call the park to confirm it is open and what services will be available, so you can pack the necessities for a happy, memorable camping experience.
Advantages of camping in spring
- Reservations not required, except for the May long weekend
- Cooler temperatures better for hiking and other daytime activities
- Wildlife more commonly seen when there are fewer people and pets
- No crowds
- No mosquitoes.
Important tips for off-season activities
- Call before you go
- Be prepared for self-registration; have cash or personal cheques with you
- Dress in layers
- Be prepared for all kinds of weather
- Be prepared for reduced services in campgrounds
- You may need to bring firewood
- You may need to bring potable water.
Stewardship and Caring
When we participate in outdoor activities, we impact the natural landscape, the resident wildlife, and other visitors. We encourage park visitors to practice stewardship through responsible behavior, by following the rules and regulations in the parks and being aware of the impact of your activities on the environment and your camping neighbours.
Campers are reminded that campfires should never be left unattended and always use a designated fire pit. Where the wildfire hazard is high, fire bans may be in place.
For More Information visit albertaparks.ca. Photos, interactive maps, descriptions, downloadable campground guides and direct links for reservations will help with your trip planning.
For up-to-date trail reports and other advisories, visit albertaparks.ca or call 1-866-427-3582 toll-free.
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