The best camping near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site adventure.

Discover Canada's petroleum legacy amid scenic wonders.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Finnish Off-Grid Foothills Cabin
  • Finnish Off-Grid Foothills Cabin
  • Finnish Off-Grid Foothills Cabin
88%
(4)

Finnish Off-Grid Foothills Cabin

1 site · Lodging640 acres · AB
Off-grid experience (solar-powered and rainwater fed) for hikers, skiers or relaxers. This unique Finnish-inspired cabin has stunning views at all hours of the day and rich wildlife as well as Nature experiences in every direction. Steps away from the back entrance to the new Castle Provincial Park, and adjacent to thousands of acres of beautiful and accessible crown and park land. Many surrounding peaks from which to choose for the hikers and bikers, and two hills 40 minutes away for skiers. The cabin is situated on 480 acres of land on which there are no other houses, and adjacent to publicly-accessible land that spans thousands of acres. There is wildlife of all kinds and beautiful views right into British-Columbia and Montana. There is also a firepit :) This is off-grid but there IS cell phone service :) DISCLAIMER: please be advised that the cabin situated adjacent to Park and Crown land and wildlife of all sizes frequents the area. We advise that you be bear-aware, proceed with knowledge and carry spray while walking on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
CA$150
 / night
  • HollyWoods - Near Waterton NP
  • HollyWoods - Near Waterton NP
  • HollyWoods - Near Waterton NP
93%
(7)

HollyWoods - Near Waterton NP

4 sites · Lodging, Tents4 acres · AB
Our property is located in the peaceful ranching hamlet of Twin Butte (28km south of Pincher Creek). We are only 1km away from the legendary Twin Butte General Store/Mexican Restaurant which features great food, ice cream, and live music. Drive 20 minutes south and you'll be in the spectacular Waterton Lakes National park where you can find great hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and amazing wildlife viewing. Drive 20 minutes north and west and you'll be in the beautiful front ranges of Castle Wildland Provincial Park, which also offers excellent hiking and fishing opportunities. If you venture a little further (about an hour), you'll have access to all of the opportunities the rest of the Castle Provinical Park or Crowsnest Pass has to offer, with many recreational activities available. No dogs or other pets are allowed on the property as we have our own pets and our neighbors have livestock.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$32
 / night
  • Campsite #3 Frenchie
  • ML Arena at Spring Point
  • Campsite #3 Frenchie
95%
(11)

ML Arena at Spring Point

6 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Claresholm, AB
ML Arena is located in the Foothills of Southern Alberta in the community of Spring Point (the HipCamp listing shows “Claresholm” but we are located in the MD of Pincher Creek) 10 miles west of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of “Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump “. We have 3 campsites with water and power, 1 full service treed campsite for smaller rigs and an orchard for tenting. Overflow parking for big rigs is available with power. There is an indoor riding arena on site and access to the Porcupine Hills Recreation Area public lands just 15 minutes down the road! Beautiful open views give the feel of being secluded but proximity to both Fort Macleod and Pincher Creek is just 25 minutes away. Outdoor corrals and pens with auto waterers are available for horses.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$30
 / night
  • Here’s the new outhouse.
  • An area to walk on a canal road close to the property.
  • Here’s the new outhouse.
94%
(65)

Wildflower Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · AB
Learn more about this land:Our humble campsite includes a private area on our small property at the foot of the mountains.We have one large fire pit, a large table for gatherings, and an outhouse. We also have fresh spring water and first aid supplies available if needed.We are family-friendly and pet-friendly!We are only 30 minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park. The park is internationally known as one of the most beautiful destinations in the Canadian Rockies. And for good reason. Waterton is where the rolling prairies of Alberta meet the stunning Rocky Mountains and is filled with diverse wildlife, dozens of different wildflowers and some of the best hiking in North America. The town of Waterton Lakes National Park is the perfect destination if you're looking for adventure, fun and relaxation no matter what season it may be.Come and enjoy the beautiful view we’ve called home for so long! Any other questions and we are happy to help or accommodate as we are able.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night
  • Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp
  • Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp
  • Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp

Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp

10 sites · Lodging200 acres · Claresholm, AB
Welcome to Buffalo Rock Located along the Old Man River and on the Piikani Nation Reserve. Our family owned camp has been in operation since 2015. Welcoming guests and groups from all over the world. Some come for the peace and tranquility of the beautiful surroundings. Some come to learn about the Blackfoot Peoples culture a bit more. We love that! We are conveniently located just 5 minutes away from the Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump and 10 minutes away from the historic Town of Fort Macleod, the backdrop to many Hollywood films. Powwows can be enjoyed in July on the Piikani Nation and on the Blood Tribe/ Kainai Nation. All are welcomed to attend. This wonderful weekend of culture, food and rodeo is amazing.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$145
 / night

Top-rated campgrounds near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site

  • Rocky Mountains Glamping
  • Rocky Mountains Glamping
  • Rocky Mountains Glamping
94%
(170)

Rocky Mountains Glamping

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · AB
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$43.20
 / night
  • Camping with Mountain Views
  • Camping with Mountain Views
  • Camping with Mountain Views
97%
(62)

Camping with Mountain Views

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · AB
With amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, this west facing spot allows for some beautiful sunsets. Sightings of deer and moose are very typical along with many birds including hawks, eagles and even a chance to see some sand hill cranes. Just up the hill is the Pine Ridge lookout which provide views towards Waterton Park and the legendary Chief Mountain.Learn more about this land:This camping spot has amazing mountain views about 15 minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park.  The prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park. Clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, rainbow-coloured streams, colourful rocks and mountain vistas await hikers and sightseers. With an exceptional diversity of wildlife and wildflowers and a cozy little waterfront town to serve as a home base, Waterton packs a big natural punch into a relatively small and accessible area.Currently, this is a simple, basic spot to camp and enjoy the views.There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife (moose, deer, birds). No amenities as of now, but we are looking to add more soon.  Due to fire restrictions currently in place, only propane-type devices can be used at this time.Pets are welcome.
Pets
from 
CA$35
 / night
  • Waterton - Bear Hump Trail View
  • D & D Glamping/Camping
  • Waterton - Bear Hump Trail View
100%
(3)

D & D Glamping/Camping

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · AB
Discover Serenity Near Payne Lake Provincial Park Escape to our peaceful, pet-friendly glamping and campground, just steps away from the natural beauty of Payne Lake Provincial Park. Whether you bring your own tent or RV, or rent one of our cozy options, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Enjoy fishing, for rainbow trout, swimming, or launching your boat or other water craft right from the park. Located only 14 km from the Waterton Park boundary and a short 20-minute drive to the Waterton Park townsite, our campground offers the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility. For those looking to explore further, we are also just 25 minutes from Cardston, home to the historic Remington Carriage Museum, the Cardston Carriage House Theatre, and the beautiful temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Relax around the fire pit, savor meals at the provided picnic tables, and immerse yourself in the quiet, private setting. Please note, we currently do not offer hook-ups or potable water, so come prepared to enjoy a true off-grid experience. We are located only a 15 minute drive from the Waterton Lake National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$23.75
 / night

The best camping near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site guide

Overview

About

Drilled in 1902, Western Canada’s first oil well was short lived but ignited Alberta’s passion for petroleum exploration. Investigate the site and explore for nearby traces of the town in the forests of Waterton Lakes National Park. Learn how the entrepreneurs discovered and drilled for the oil and why they ultimately abandon their dreams.

When to go

The best time to visit the First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park's full splendour is on display. Winter can be harsh, with heavy snowfall limiting access to certain areas, making it less ideal for visitors.

Know before you go

  • Always check the weather forecast and prepare for sudden changes, as the park's climate can be unpredictable.
  • Be aware of wildlife in the area; maintain a safe distance and store food securely.
  • Accessibility may vary across different parts of the park; inquire ahead for specific needs.
  • Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to confirm their operation hours.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and respect the natural and historical significance of the site.

Top parks near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site

Police Outpost Provincial Park
Cody Caves Provincial Park
Gilnockie Provincial Park
Morrissey Provincial Park
Banff National Park
Yoho National Park
Okanagan Lake Provincial Park
Valhalla Provincial Park

Top cities near First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site

Calgary
Lethbridge
Fernie
Invermere
Kelowna
Penticton
Banff
Red Deer

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