The best waterside campgrounds in Alberta

Alberta’s waterside camping scene sets you up with over 190 options, each right on the edge of rivers, lakes, or creeks. You’ll find spots where the trout bite early and swimming holes stay cold through August. Expect average nightly rates around $50, but you can snag a site for as low as $20 if you’re quick. Favourites like The Secret Sanctuary (162 reviews), Cattle Ranch in the Foothills (161 reviews), and Collinswood Retreat (123 reviews) keep regulars coming back for the fishing, hiking trails, and off-leash dog runs. Most sites let you bring your pup, build a campfire, and rely on basic toilets. If you’re after evenings by the water and mornings with a line in the stream, Alberta’s got the spot.

96% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Secret Sanctuary

98%

(359)

17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wetaskiwin, AB

We are passionate about nature and the environment. Living close to off-grid makes this area low in EMF, light and noise pollution. The well water is clean, pure and delicious. We are excited to share this Alberta wilderness with like-minded outdoor-type individuals who enjoy community glamping. There are two beautiful lakes (Battle Lake and Pigeon Lake) within a 10-minute drive that offer boating, fishing, beaches, biking and walking trails. Our property is about 1 hour south of Edmonton, Alberta. We have 2 different listings to choose from. Our Tiny Home Cabin and unique Glamping tents. Come enjoy this tranquil piece of nature with us - we look forward to hosting you!

Alberta’s waterside camping scene sets you up with over 190 options, each right on the edge of rivers, lakes, or creeks. You’ll find spots where the trout bite early and swimming holes stay cold through August. Expect average nightly rates around $50, but you can snag a site for as low as $20 if you’re quick. Favourites like The Secret Sanctuary (162 reviews), Cattle Ranch in the Foothills (161 reviews), and Collinswood Retreat (123 reviews) keep regulars coming back for the fishing, hiking trails, and off-leash dog runs. Most sites let you bring your pup, build a campfire, and rely on basic toilets. If you’re after evenings by the water and mornings with a line in the stream, Alberta’s got the spot.

96% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Secret Sanctuary

98%

(359)

17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wetaskiwin, AB

We are passionate about nature and the environment. Living close to off-grid makes this area low in EMF, light and noise pollution. The well water is clean, pure and delicious. We are excited to share this Alberta wilderness with like-minded outdoor-type individuals who enjoy community glamping. There are two beautiful lakes (Battle Lake and Pigeon Lake) within a 10-minute drive that offer boating, fishing, beaches, biking and walking trails. Our property is about 1 hour south of Edmonton, Alberta. We have 2 different listings to choose from. Our Tiny Home Cabin and unique Glamping tents. Come enjoy this tranquil piece of nature with us - we look forward to hosting you!

Stories from the community

Andrea

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Secret Sanctuary

We loved camping at the Secret Sanctuary! We brought our own glamping and got the breakfast delivered to your site as an add on. Absolutely delicious! The whole experience and vibe of this place is really something special. We were looking for a getaway close to the city that offered privacy (which is hard to find these days) and were not disappointed. We want to bring the whole family next time we come! The hot shower and compost toilets were great, the trails and nearby lakes were awesome for exploring, and Denika and her family were so friendly and helpful. 5 stars! Also make sure to check out the store for amazing salves, delicious teas, and cute pottery!

John

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Secret Sanctuary

it was a wonderful experience! we had a two-day family vacation in the third suite with our own tent, but after we looked around the area and saw what the owners offer, we will definitely come back without a tent ;-) Very spacious, friendly, great trails for walking and everything you need for a wonderful vacation and even more! We highly recommend it!!!

I

Iga

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Secret Sanctuary

My husband and I absolutely adored spending time and camping at the Secret Sanctuary, would recommend if you’re looking to find a nice quiet spot not too far from the city!