Alberta offers some fantastic winter camping opportunities that are perfect for those seeking a winter adventure. In this article, we are showcasing three Alberta campsites that stay open during the winter and provide special experiences you won’t want to miss: Happy Trails Campground, Grande Prairie, Cheechako Cabins, and Bearberry Cabins.
Alberta is known for its stunning natural beauty. A province rich in landscapes and diversity. While many might associate camping with the warmer months, winter camping in Alberta offers a magical experience. Albertans are true adventurers, and winter is no exception when it comes to enjoying the pristine snow-covered landscapes, the great outdoors, and creating unforgettable memories.
Happy Trails Campground & Cabins – Grande Prairie, AB
Nestled in the heart of Grande Prairie, Happy Trails Campground welcomes campers all year round and beckons winter explorers. This charming campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an excellent choice for colder-weather camping.
The County of Grande Prairie is in the heart of Peace Country, rich in Alberta’s history—the early settlers gave Grande Prairie its name for its expansive and diverse landscape. The serenity of the land mixed with the quaint ambiance gives locals and visitors alike the chance to witness the beauty of the peace region. Its charm and beauty take on winter in a whole new light.
Happy Trails Campground has been a popular camping destination for generations, providing a welcoming haven for travellers passing through northern Alberta. The campground boasts over 240 full-service RV sites, 39 full kitchen cabins and park model cabins, year-round, ensuring you stay warm and cozy during your visit. They also offer clean, heated washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a general store to stock up on last-minute items. It also offers a conference room for booking large gatherings such as weddings or family reunions.
Happy Trails Campground provides easy access to snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing on the many lakes in the region. The nearby Muskoseepi Park offers picturesque walking trails and an ice rink for outdoor skating. The park runs through the heart of Grande Prairie, featuring over 1100 acres of parkland. Muskoseepi is a Cree word meaning Bear Creek and reveals the rich cultural heritage and beauty of the region.
The campground is conveniently located near the city, making it an ideal base for exploring the winter attractions of Grande Prairie. The friendly staff and cozy campfire evenings will make you feel right at home. Reservations are best booked online.
Cheechako Cabins
For those seeking a more rustic and secluded winter camping experience, Cheechako Cabins near Nordegg, AB is a hidden paradise. Situated amidst the pristine wilderness of the Rockies, this campground is a welcoming retreat for nature lovers.
The cabins themselves were built to model the cabins after the small, frame houses that the coal miners once lived in with their families, dating back to the early 1900s.
Each cabin at Cheechako offers fully equipped kitchens, bedding and linens, a bathroom, wood burning stove and electric heat, and a covered deck with BBQ and seating. Winter camping at Cheechako means you will experience the untouched beauty of the surrounding snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and star-studded nights. There are plenty of activities such as hiking, ice fishing, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Don’t forget to explore the historic Nordegg townsite nearby, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Alberta’s rich past.
Bearberry Cabins
Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, in Banff National Park, lies Bearberry Cabins. It is another excellent choice for winter campers looking to escape the hustle of everyday life to connect with nature. This charming campsite boasts…ensuring there’s something for everyone.
The Bearberry community has a rich history that traces its roots back to the early 1900s. The first people to habit in the Bearberry Valley were First Nations families of the Stoney tribe. Soon, new settlers began to settle in the area, homesteading the region, and began calling the Bearberry community home. Over the years, Bearberry Cabins have evolved into a family-friendly camping destination. The cabins at Bearberry are cozy, well-equipped, and perfect for staying warm during chilly winter nights. If you enjoy fishing, you’ll be delighted to know that the area is renowned for ice fishing, with nearby lakes teeming with trout and perch. The surrounding wilderness is perfect for snowshoeing, hiking, horseback riding, and watching wildlife.
Bearberry Cabins offers a peaceful escape from the city, located approximately 25 minutes from Sundre and 30 minutes from Caroline. This special location allows you to relax and take in the serenity of the Alberta wilderness. Winter camping here provides a unique opportunity to witness the wildlife, from deer and elk to wintering birds. Plus, with numerous trails to explore, you can embark on scenic winter hikes to truly take in nature’s winter wonders.
Winter camping in Alberta offers a one-of-a-kind experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Happy Trails Campground, Cheechako Cabins, and Bearberry Cabins are just three campgrounds worth checking out this winter. So, grab your parka, your family and friends, and head out to these winter wonderlands for a snow-covered wilderness adventure. Happy exploring!
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