The best camping near Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park

Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park encompasses two lakes: MacLeod Lake (formerly Carson Lake) and Little MacLeod Lake (formerly Pegasus Lake). Although the names have changed, the natural Alberta beauty has not. Known as one of a handful of spots in the province for excellent lake trout, this park features a fishing wall that juts into the lake, which means even those without a boat can try their hand at catching a big one. Camping in the park’s sole campground means access to well-spaced treed campsites (some of which are lakefront), powered site options, and a playground.

1. Just an hour and a half from Edmonton and only 15 kilometres from the town of Whitecourt, the campground can fill up quickly on summer weekends, particularly long weekends.
2. If you are hoping to snag a spot during these peak times, you better reserve as soon as the reservation window opens. You can reserve up to 90 days in advance on the Alberta Parks website or by calling the reservation line.
3. Off-season camping (mid-September to mid-May) is first come, first served.

Summer in Alberta is camping season and people are eager to take advantage of any warm weather days. If it is hot, expect it to be busier than on cooler days. The park’s proximity to Edmonton means that daytrippers as well as campers will be out in force. Parts of Carson-Pegasus Campground are open year-round, although the water is shut off mid-September. Ice fishing and snowmobiling on the lake are the most popular winter activities, while boating and birding top the list for summer.

• Provincial parks in Alberta don’t require a paid permit to enter, admission is free. There is however a nightly fee to camp and you must buy your firewood from the campground. Bringing your own firewood is not allowed in an effort to reduce diseases in local flora.
• Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as you may find deer, moose, black bear, coyotes, and lynx, plus a wide variety of birds like loons, jays, woodpeckers, and owls.  
• There are walk-in sites on the peninsula (loop H) that get you close to the water and away from the bulk of the campers. 
• Two accessible campsites are located in loop H.