Less than 35 minutes east of Edmonton lies a year-round oasis where bison roam freely, sun glistens off lakes and ponds, and stars light-up the night sky; Elk Island National Park. This gentle wilderness of aspen woodlands, prairie meadows and pockets of wetland is a wildlife-watchers paradise; free roaming bison, elk, deer, moose, and more than 250 bird species call this place home.
A short drive to Elk Island National Park rewards visitors with countless recreation opportunities; hike or bike over 80 km of trails, rent canoes and paddle around the islands on Astotin Lake, take in a free program, or borrow a geocaching kit and enjoy a nearly 200 square kilometre scavenger hunt. Fun doesn’t end as the sun begins to set; stay warm by a fire and look into a sky filled with stars and dancing Northern Lights. Without the glow of city lights around you’ll see more than you knew existed!
With so much to do why not stay the night? Book a campsite and bring your tent or RV to the Astotin Lake Campground, or pack a backpack and make the 4 km hike into Oster Lake Backcountry Campground. If you want the experience of camping but need a few more creature comforts, oTENTik’s are available at Elk Island! oTENTik’s are a cross between a tent and a rustic cabin; bring a sleeping bag and discover the joys of camping without any fuss.
Save the date! Reservations open for camping at EINP this summer on January 25, 2022 at 8 am MST. The best times to visit EINP are weekdays in the summer. Click here for more details on reservations:Â Reservation Service – Plan your visit (pc.gc.ca)
To reserve a campsite, please visit http://reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca or call 1-877-737-3783 (1-877-RESERVE)
Winter is here at Elk Island National Park! The snow has fallen and the air is crisp.
Now is a great time to visit Elk Island National Park.
In winter enjoy the winter camping, snowshoeing, stargazing, and more! The skating rink is not yet open this season. The visitor center is now open every day (capacity limits are in place). During the holidays you may be looking for exciting outdoor activities during the week, making Elk Island your perfect weekday destination. Being in nature provides important physical and mental health benefits. Going outdoors is a great way to maintain health and wellness, so long as everyone follows public health measures that includes physical distancing practices.
Be bison wise – Elk Island National Park (pc.gc.ca)
Notice: Area closure – North section of Elk Island Parkway
See also Elk Island National Park – for COVID updates.
WINTER AT ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK: Select Saturdays December through March - Snowshoe & Stargaze Program - Check out the events section. For Details on Winter Camping Click Here!
