Looking for local adventure with family and friends in the great outdoors? Camping season opens today in the County of Grande Prairie. 

“Our campgrounds and parks are the perfect places to unwind, relax, explore and have fun,” says Christine Rawlins, Parks and Recreation Manager. “Whether it's a day trip, setting up your trailer, tenting, picnicking, canoeing, or hiking, the County offers many recreational opportunities.”  

In addition to existing reservation options for Pipestone Creek Campground and Hythe Municipal Campground, visitors can now book online for the Bear Lake, Demmitt, Hommy and Kleskun campgrounds. The move to online reservations reflects campers’ expectations and is consistent with provincial and national park campgrounds.  

Also new this season is a $5 nightly fire permit fee at all County campgrounds. In the event of a fire ban, this fee would be refunded. 

“The fee is included when booking overnight camping and campers will still have self-serve access to firewood,” adds Rawlins. “With this change, only visitors enjoying our campgrounds contribute to the cost of providing firewood, rather than all County residents through their municipal taxes.” 

The County has continued to upgrade campground facilities to improve the guest experience. In June, visitors to Pipestone Creek will enjoy approximately seven kilometres of natural woodland trails, thanks to an Alberta Environment and Parks Recreation Partnership Initiative grant. The single-track trails wind through the Wapiti River valley and each trailhead features signs indicating their level of difficulty. Later this summer, interpretative signage will be added along the trails to share information on local plants and wildlife. 

Bear Lake is reporting normal water levels at the day-use beach making it a great local destination for water sport enthusiasts who enjoy kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and kiteboarding.  

Group camping areas are available at Pipestone Creek and Bear Lake campgrounds. Private group camping can be booked at Bear Hill and Old Bezanson Townsite.  

The County strives to offer a positive and safe atmosphere at all campgrounds. Guests are asked to respect the environment, their neighbours, and park staff. Never leave campfires unattended and ensure they are fully extinguished by soaking them with water twice while stirring the ashes. Check www.countygp.ab.ca for updates on any fire bans issued throughout the season.  

Visit www.countygp.ab.ca/campgrounds to reserve a site and find complete information on County campgrounds, parks, and playgrounds, including a full list of facilities. For additional questions, call the Parks and Recreation department at 780-532-9727.