Elkwater Campground
The spot
About this campsite
Elkwater Campground serves as the primary accommodation hub on the Alberta side of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, sitting elevated significantly above the surrounding prairie.
Surrounded by lodgepole pine forests and spruce stands, campers enjoy cooler summer temperatures, access to Elkwater Lake for boating and paddleboarding, and extensive mountain biking and hiking trails.
As part of a designated Dark Sky Preserve, night skies at Elkwater are exceptionally clear, making it a favorite for astronomy lovers and overlanders.
What makes it worth the drive
- Dark Sky Preserve
- High-elevation lodgepole pine forest
- Elkwater Lake beach & marina
- Mountain biking trails
- Full hookup sites
Amenities & ground rules
Difficulty
Easy
Access
Price
$36.00 CAD
Season
May 15 – October 12
Elevation
1,230 m
Potable water
Available
Toilets
Available
Showers
Available
Boat launch
Available
Cell signal
Not available
Swimming
Not available
Firewood
Not available
Pets
Not available
Power hookups
Available
Sani-dump
Available
Dark Sky Preserve
On site
Community reviews
Aug 2025
A true oasis in southeast Alberta. Tall pine trees, cool mountain-like air, and unbelievable stargazing at night.
Getting there
Location
Approximate coordinates. Download offline maps before you lose signal — cell coverage around Elkwater Campground is unreliable.
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