The best camping near Elk Island National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Elk Island National Park adventure.

Unrivaled stargazing and kayaking just 30 minutes from Edmonton.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Elk Island National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Elk Island National Park

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Avant Gardens

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Wetaskiwin, AB

Avant Gardens offers 2 separately rented sites: one is a small rustic cabin and the other is a tenting (or small RV/van) area nestled in the bush on 45 acres in rural Leduc County. The 2 sites share an outhouse. The property is 5 minutes down the road from Coal Lake which offers fishing, boating and more. There is no running water but drinking water is available on site. Group camping is welcome. Firewood is available for purchase.

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Elk Island Getaway

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · AB

Welcome to Elk Island Getaway! Elk Island Getaway is located 20 minutes east of Edmonton and 7 minutes from HWY 16 main entrance of Elk Island Park, Alberta. We are also right by Elk Island Park, in addition to being an important refuge for bison, elk and more than 250 bird species, it is a great place for all your hiking, picnicking, biking, canoeing and kayaking needs. When you enter Elk Island National Park you will know immediately that you have entered an oasis of calm. For years people have come to the picturesque park to escape the city life, explore the outdoors and connect with nature. Come and experience the dark sky preserve in our area that features an amazing opportunity to star gaze and to view the Northern Lights. We have 6 campsites available for tent, van, small motorhome, and trailers. Our group site is sites 7 and 8 please inquire if interested in this option. We do not discriminate on anything and are all inclusive Pets welcome on leash and owners are responsible for clean-up. This is a camper-maintained campground. Please take your trash with you at the end of your stay. There is a toilet available for campers to use but no other amenities. Our sites offer picnic tables and firepits. Mowed Paths to walk We have some propane firepits with propane for an additional fee - please inquire if interested in this. If you forget your firewood or need more, we sell bundles of wood for an additional fee. We follow Provincial and County Fire Regulations Boreal Harvest Farms is right next door with a honeyberry U pick available during part of the year. Starts July 8th open to pick for an additional fee! We look forward to hosting you.

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Campbellville

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Camrose, AB

Almost 20 acres of ponds, trails, trees, and multiple features along the way! Private property with no neighbors nearby. Enjoy the recharge back in nature. Minutes from a the famous ‘footloose caboose’ rural restraunt. Total distance from downtown Edmonton is 45 minutes. Several spots to choose from. We look forward to meeting you!

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Pasture Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ardrossan, AB

Learn more about this land: Located a mile outside of Elk Island Park, the campsite is located on 40 acres, half pasture and half forest. Bring your own tents, RVs, or trailers. If you're bringing an RV, the site is flat and can accommodate vehicles up to 59ft in length. In addition to being an important refuge for bison, elk and more than 250 bird species, Elk Island National Park is also an oasis of calm for day picnickers and a beautiful place to explore. Incredibly private but not isolated, and perfect for nature lovers/watchers. Amenities include access to potable water, picnic table and WIFI. Pets welcome! Campfires permitted.

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Red Rock Farm

10 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Vegreville, AB

Sit back, relax and enjoy the perfect camping escape. Our campsite is available all year round! Located in a peaceful setting close to Mundare (10 minutes), Vegreville (15 minutes), and Edmonton (45 minutes) we invite you to bring your whole family to enjoy our farm camping getaway. We have 4 sites that can accommodate up to 7 people each. The sites are in the open but have some protection and privacy provided by the trees. We have a fire pit, wood supplies, and a picnic table so you can enjoy your evenings by the campfire. During your stay, you are invited to walk around the property to see our farm animals like goats, sheep, and chickens. If you’d like, we can even show you how to collect freshly laid chicken eggs, tend to a garden, or bird-watch all of the marvellous birds that fly about our property. If you’re looking for adventure nearby, there’s wonderful hiking at Elk Island Park (30 minutes drive) or bird watching at Beaver Hill lake and hiking . The sites are all easily accessible by traditional cars and no special vehicles are needed. There is wifi and cell reception on the property, and we can also provide you with electricity to charge your phones or other devices during your stay, just ask! May is lambing time at RedRock farm , (Please watch for over head power lines ) stay to your right entering the yard We hope to see you soon!

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Ravens' Valley Chickadee Chalet

9 sites · Lodging5 acres · Sturgeon County, AB

A great private place to experience nature, enjoy the chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, many different birds, beavers, deer, fox and moose. Listening to the coyotes, beavers and owls by the fire pit while stargazing is so peaceful and relaxing! Great walking trails for day and night time. Head flash lights provided. Lawn and board games with a large 6 seater picnic table by the fire pit. Hot dog sticks, barbecue and fire table in the gazebo with propane included, In the summer enjoy a hot shower in nature! Propane included. A beautiful private getaway, where you can relax, let go, tune into nature, and rejuvenate. There are so many good healing factors when you can just relax and let nature take its course! Come experience! We are nestled in the heart of the Sturgeon Valley across from the Sturgeon river. 25 mins North of downtown Edmonton. Light packing trip, - food, drinking water, shower towel, personal toiletries and insect repellent. Included in the Chickadee Chalet, All bedding and pillows to sleep 5 comfortably. 1 queen, 1 single and 1 double in the loft. Dinette booth to eat and play games. Fire pit coffee percolator, plates, cups, glasses, pot, pans, utensils, napkins, foil, plastic wrap, salt and pepper, barbecue lighter, lanterns, head flashlight, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, crockpot and mini fridge. Barbecue and fire table in the gazebo. Private outhouse Beautiful in the summer and winter. Many bird species with a blue heron that lives here in the summer. Please note, a 4WD vehicle is required to access the site in the winter. Cozy up with the fireplace enjoy some hot chocolate and snacks. Spend time playing games and connecting in a peaceful spot. Its a great place for making memories. Pets are welcome! Across from the Sturgeon River nestled in the heart of the Sturgeon Valley we Swimming pools are about 10 mins away. Playing cards -Board games - (Not too scary) ghost stories -Campfire songs -Rock Painting kits At night the solar lights add the perfect ambiance for a calm and happy mood. We hope you will come and check out this special get away.

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Trees, Grassland Trails and Hills

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Sherwood Park, AB

Learn more about this land:Bring your own tents, truck and van campers, trailers, and RVs.Quiet yet close enough to the city for all services if required. The property is a 25-minute drive to Edmonton. There are some short trails around the 20 acres to explore. Far enough from neighbours to enjoy real seclusion. Activities nearby include hiking, wildlife watching, off-roading, and biking.Campfires permitted, pets welcome.

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Danny’s Croft - 80 Acre Woods

4 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Sherwood Park, AB

Learn more about this land: Danny’s Croft -The 80 Acre Woods boasts a variety of landforms that include a wetland, woodland, a large beaver pond, rolling hills, and open fields. Our home includes two goats, eight sheep, about 50 laying hens, 7 ducks, and a red footed African Tortoise. Campers are invited to feed the animals and collect organic eggs, with us, for breakfast. Bring your own tents, trailers, or RVs. If you're bringing an RV/trailer, the site requires levelling and can accommodate vehicles up to 49ft in length. We have moose and deer visiting the meadow regularly and many birds call our land home. This property is a nature lovers paradise and only 30 mins South East of Edmonton and Sherwood Park. Hastings Lake borders our land and water access for water sports is close. Elk Island Park is 26 km away. Pets are welcome. We look forward to hosting you!

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Creek's Edge

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Spruce Grove, AB

This property was part of a large tree farm that was owned and operated by a well-respected and well-known family in the community. The family subdivided the land before selling the property. The beauty and serenity - and the variety of trees - still exists to this day. Learn more about this land:This cozy, private, and peaceful spot is shaded by mature spruce and pine next to a ravine leading down to a small creek and more than 3 kilometres of hiking/snowshoe trails that meander through the forest and along the creek. Frisbees and horseshoes are available for guests' use. Soak in the peaceful environment and relax in our hammocks or chairs. Two friendly dogs and two friendly cats live on the property and are sure to give you a warm welcome, just as their owners will. Less than 10 min away are lakes and environmental reserves for paddling and fishing, hiking and bicycling, and geocaching. Local amenities (shopping, recreation, banking, groceries) are less than a 10-minutes drive away. Although this property is located not far from major urban centres, with convenient access to major routes to and from Edmonton, Spruce Grove, and Stony Plain, you will feel miles from civilization, thanks to the abundance of trees, privacy and the serenity of the place. It's the best of both worlds! Rest and rejuvenate in your forested campsite without having to travel to the boonies to do so!We want to share our peaceful, serene, and beautiful property with those who can respect our pristine environment.

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Campino Natural

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Edmonton, AB

We are an Adult Only 25+ Naturist/Nudist Retreat on a Private Acreage minutes away from the City. We offer amenities such as heated above ground pool, Hot Tub, Sauna, Beach and Sports Field. You can Hike Freely 'naturally' on our 1.2 km Nature Path. Your Spacious Bell-Tent is equipped with a Queen Bed, Plenty of Comfy Blankets and Pillows. Season Opens May Long weekend of 2024 - September Long weekend 2024. We are Open Thursday to Monday Weekly. Your Check in is 12 noon Check out is 10 a.m. BUT you can remove your personal Belongings and enjoy the amenities till 6 p.m.

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QWRC Alpacas

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · AB

We are a family-run farm raising Alpacas, Llamas, cats, a dog, and horses. Please review our pictures as you will see one of our painted buildings - when you see this building from the gate, you will know you are at the correct farm. It has blue skies, white clouds, yellow sunflowers, a pond & a monarch butterfly saying 'Blessings' at the top. Our Alpacas & Llamas are not 'halter broke'; however, love to visit our guests when they arrive. Should you & your family wish to hand-feed them their treats (please request when booking your stay, so we have them ready when you arrive), we provide the treats for a nominal fee per person & will teach everyone how to feed them. Pictures & videos are welcomed. With lots of space for kids to play & ride their bicycles, families may take long walks to our 'spring' (sorry no swimming; only for inspiration, peacefulness & wildlife) while picking wild Saskatoons, Raspberries & Rosehips (in season). Please note our farm is 'fragrance free' - no colognes, perfumes, scented deodorant or scented bug spray. We have an 'outdoor bathroom' for your use when one is not enough. We have tables & chairs to eat your lunch &/or snacks (bring own), as we do not offer food for sale. Smoking allowed in your unit. We have alpaca products & a variety of gifts for sale - such as: hats, mittens, socks, insoles, scarves, yarn, roasting sticks, & raw fiber. We also offer an Alpaca sponsorship program, plus have ornaments, gift bags & office mouse-pads. We accept donations towards the care of the animals, as well. Payment accepted by cash or e-transfers. We are close to several local towns with full services - physicians, dental, chiropractors & hospitals, gas stations, wash & sewage removal stations, grocery stores (Wal-Mart and West Edmonton Mall), restaurants, shopping, banking centers, etc. and to Jasper National Park. We are open during winter months (weather permitting) for snowshoeing & cross country skiing (bring your own), with a winter campfire & complimentary marshmallows & hot chocolate. Pets are welcomed - dogs &/or cats, however they must be on a leash, cleaned up after, well behaved, and MUST BE APPROVED FIRST before request is confirmed, depending on their age & breed. We know from time-to-time plans do change & we ask if you would be kind enough to advise us asap & then to cancel with your Reservation Organization to open the space for other campers. Blessings & Safe Travels

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Prairie Couture Life

6 sites · Tents20 acres · Edmonton, AB

Looking for a unique camping experience? Look no further than our 20-acre property, situated in the heart of Alberta's beautiful forest and prairies. Our property boasts a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, rolling prairies, and peaceful sandpits. Here, you'll find an abundance of rich Alberta wildlife, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to our stunning scenery, we offer several options for lodging, including vintage trailers, buses, and campsites. Our vintage trailers and buses have been lovingly restored, providing a fun and cozy space for you to relax and unwind while surrounded by nature. Our campsites offer a more traditional camping experience, with plenty of space to pitch your tent and explore the great outdoors. Half Moon Lake is just seven minute drive away. No matter which option you choose, you'll have access to all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Our property features clean, well-maintained outhouse bathrooms and an outdoor shower, pits for roasting marshmallows and enjoying the starry Alberta skies, and plenty of quiet spots for relaxation and rejuvenation. We're excited to share our beautiful property with you, and we can't wait to help you create lasting memories with your family and friends. Whether you're looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a fun family vacation, or a peaceful retreat in nature, we have everything you need to make your stay unforgettable. So why wait? Reserve your spot today and get ready to experience the best of Alberta camping!

The best camping near Elk Island National Park guide

Overview

About

Elk Island is home to one of Canada’s largest bison populations, and elk roam here too, of course, along with moose, deer, coyote, and many bird species. In fact, the park has one of the highest densities of hoofed mammals in the world, after the Serengeti. Watch for them as you hike the trails, kayak on Astotin Lake, or go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. It’s also one of the best places in Canada to stargaze and view the northern lights. Camping options include walk-in tent camping sites, ready-to-camp oTENTiks, fully-equipped campsites, a 60-person campsite, and a backcountry campground.

Notable campgrounds

Best for families: Arrive at the oTENTiks at Astotin Lake Campground for an easy option.
Best for hikers: The hike-in Oster Lake Backcountry Campground is one of the most picturesque and quietest areas of Elk Island with no cars or city lights.
Best for big groups: Set near the beach, soccer field, playground, and golf course, Astotin Lake Group Camping Area is made for groups of at least 10 and can accommodate up to 60 people.

Reservations are required for all campsites in Elk Island, and the booking system (online or by phone) opens in early January for visits between May and October—and they fill up fast with locals due to its proximity to Edmonton.
We highly recommend booking on the date the reservation system opens to secure a spot—about four months in advance.
There are only five oTENTik units at Astotin Lake, so if you want to snag one during summer, you’ll especially need to reserve well in advance.

When to go

Elk Island is an incredible place to visit year-round, but camping is only available between mid-May and Canadian Thanksgiving in October, weather permitting. There’s never a guarantee you’ll spot wildlife, but if that’s what you’re after then late spring and early summer near dawn or at dusk offer the best opportunities (you might even spot a bison calf during this time). Summer is peak season, but also peak mosquito season, so come prepared. The fall foliage is beautiful, and during winter you’ll find people cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

Know before you go

This is where Edmonton locals go to get away—so it books up very early. If you want a camping spot, book as soon as the reservation system opens.
If you don’t have camping gear, there are fully-equipped Parks Canada sites available with tents, sleeping pads, camping stoves, and lanterns supplied.
Though bison are usually docile creatures, they can charge without warning and be dangerous during their rutting (mating) season in July and August. Keep a safe distance of 100 meters at all times.
Elk Island is a Dark Sky Preserve—it’s far enough away from the city lights that the sky is clear of light pollution. Watch the aurora forecast to catch a glimpse of the ribboning phenomenon. You can see them any time of year, but especially from late fall to late winter (between October and March).