There are few things that Albertans look forward to as much as setting up a tent – and while the weather might be pretty dodgy right now, rest assured that the time is coming! This year, make the most of it by checking out the province’s more ‘alternative’ destinations, which offer everything from bonus experiences and one-of-a-kind shelters, to unparalleled views and experimental gimmicks.
Of course, if you’re not sure where to go, here are just 10 of the most unique campgrounds and glampsites you’ll find in Alberta.
REFUGE BAY
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No matter the time of year stargaze through the transparent roof of a Refuge Bay geodome – a romantic glampsite in Cherhill, Alberta. In addition to falling asleep under a bed of stars, guests can also break a sweat in the wood-burning sauna and use the on-site BBQ.
Where: 56524 Range Road 50, Cherhill, AB
Distance from Calgary: 402.3 km
Distance from Edmonton: 105.8 km
RIVER GROVE CAMPGROUND
Located in Drumheller, River Grove Campground is a local fave. Not only it within close proximity to the hoodoos and Royal Tyrell Museum among trees and wildflowers – but it’s also got an arcade and convenience store right on site.
Where: #25 Poplar Street North, Drumheller
Distance from Calgary: 136.4 km
Distance from Edmonton: 280.2 km
GOOD KNIGHTS
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Ever watch the Princess Bride or The Lord of the Rings and think about what it might be like to live through medieval times? This spring, find out when you stay at Good Knights in Alberta, an immersive destination where guests can stay in a yurt, eat turkey legs and watch jousting tournaments.
Where: Three Hills, AB
Distance from Calgary: 123.6 km
Distance from Edmonton: 263.4 km
CACTUS COULEE FUN PARK
Located only minutes outside Drumheller, Cactus Coulee Fun Park is a locally beloved campground and amusement facility with mini golf, eurobungee, and go-karts. with fun for the whole family – check it out when it opens this May!
Where: Box 388, Drumheller, Alberta T0J 0Y0 (4km west of Royal Tyrrell Museum)
Distance from Calgary: 145.5 km
Distance from Edmonton: 145.5 km
URBAN RIVER
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While this campground is only accessible by boat, Alberta’s Urban River is an eco-friendly adventure with a brand new glamping facility that is expected to open this summer, bell tents, river activities and more!
Where: Big Island, Alberta
Distance from Calgary: 288.3 km
Distance from Edmonton: 42.9 km
CREEPY HOLLOW
A Halloween-themed summer camp for adults? You betcha! Unlike anything else that you’ll see in the province, Creepy Hollow is a campsite and haunted house hybrid with surprising touches throughout the entire park. Explore spooky houses, participate in movie nights and play games with other guests during your stay!
Where: 44046 AB-4, Warner, AB
Distance from Calgary: 275 km
Distance from Edmonton: 566 km
ASPEN CROSSING
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Experience comfort, fresh air, and history either from their tent, an RV or – for those of you who prefer to ‘glamp,’ a repurposed train car at Aspen Crossing in Alberta! Not only is a ton of fun to call home for a weekend, but the park also has a ton of family-friendly perks for those just popping by like their pigpen, flower garden, chicken coop, and even a lagoon where you can wind down with your feet in the sand.
Where: Box 30, Mossleigh, AB
Distance from Calgary: 90.2 km
Distance from Edmonton: 375 km
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RAINBOW VALLEY CAMPGROUND
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Located in Edmonton, Rainbow Valley offers so much more than a place to pitch a tent. Here guests can experience sun, fun, and nature – as well as their new aerial park! This is another good one to take a friend or family member if they’re not an experienced camper.
Where: 119 Whitemud Dr. NW, Edmonton, AB T6R 2V4
Distance from Calgary: 296 km
Distance from Edmonton: 0 km
HIDDEN COVE
Located in the very middle of Alberta’s stunning Maligne Lake – aptly named campground Hidden Cove, can only be accessed by kayak. Is the paddle worth it though? Absolutely! Not only is it incredibly private, but it’s also perfect for those who need to keep busy during their staycation, after all, you’ll also be surrounded by Jasper’s most beautiful – most paddle-able lakes.
Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 461 km
Distance from Edmonton: 403 km
SUNDANCE LODGES
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Need a weekend off-grid? Sundance is a cozy ‘glampground’ with cute little huts for rent and comfortable, earthy amenities, hiking trails, and a ton of privacy. We’d recommend staying in one of their cozy trapper’s tents that come complete with heaters, beds, and wooden floors for the ultimate experience – but really, this place is your oyster!
Where: AB-40 Kananaskis, Alberta
Distance from Calgary: 95.7 km
Distance from Edmonton: 382 km
And there you have it, folks! 10 of the most unique campgrounds and glampsites you’ll find in Alberta. Let us know which one you’ll check out this sunny season!
