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Last summer we were given the most amazing opportunity. My parents gifted us their trailer. I used to trailer and even tent with my kids when they were young, but in recent years I have focused more on traveling outside the country. I have been known to say “It’s not a true vacation if you just cook and clean in a different location!” Then Covid struck. My wings were clipped. Enter my parents with the most incredible surprise. It’s been a true gift because I have rediscovered my passion for camping. I have to say, adult camping without young kids is a very different experience! This post covers the places we explored last summer. We already have sites booked for this summer so stay tuned for more great camping in Alberta!
– there’s nothing better than camp coffee! – our trailer has the nickname Martini Express – Adult Hot Chocolate
First of all, my disclaimer. I am an adult with grown children and my camping location choices tend to focus on different priorities then they used to. First of all, we look for spots that are up to 2 hours from Edmonton for our 3 day treks. We want to get there, get set up and enjoy our time, not spend all day on the road. Secondly, we need places that are dog friendly, as Callie the adventure dog loves to camp and hike! Also of high importance is being in nature and finding sites that are natural and secluded. I’m not keen on parking my trailer in a big open parking lot for the weekend. Finally and most importantly, it has to have some hiking options as we are a family of avid hikers.
1. Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park
22km North of Whitecourt, this provincial campground is simply stunning. The spots are secluded, McLeod Lake is a really nice size, and the feature is a picturesque lake wall with boardwalk sections. There is a 1.7 km lakeshore hike but we also investigated 5.2 km of backcountry trail through the local Aspen and Spruce woodlands. It was quiet and idyllic!
2. Crimson Lake Campground
This picturesque spot is located 14km NW of Rocky Mountain House. The camping spots are private with lots of mature Aspens and the lake is truly beautiful. The highlight for us was hiking the Amerada Trail, also known as the Crimson Lake Loop. It registers at just a hair over 10km and is dog friendly. We did experience some flooded sections on the trail, so pack you waterproof hiking boots!
3. Medicine Lake
Medicine Lake is located 47km north of Rocky Mountain House making this our shortest road trip of the season. We found Medicine Lake was the ideal fall camping spot! The vibrant fall colors and spectacular sunsets were the perfect culmination to our camping season. Nestled next to the lake, our spot was perfect for catching some unseasonably warm fall rays in our lounging chairs. We even tried our hand at fishing and caught a fish from shore. Of course we fit in a breathtaking fall hike!
As Albertans, when we think of camping and hiking, we almost always think of the mountains. While we do our fair share of mountain trips, it has been so fun exploring spaces that are in our immediate backyard. This summer, we plan to visit Miquelon Lake, Thunder Lake, Pigeon Lake and more! Check back for more great camping in Alberta!
If you love exploring Alberta as much as we do, check out some of our other local adventures here: