The best campgrounds in Central Alberta with swimming

Looking for the perfect camping spot in Central Alberta, Canada? Look no further! Hipcamp offers over 250 options tailored specifically to your swimming preference. Dive into the crystal-clear waters at top-rated campsites like The Secret Sanctuary (56 reviews), Aspen Grove (37 reviews), and Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley) (25 reviews). With popular amenities such as pet-friendly accommodations, potable water, and clean toilets, you'll have everything you need for a refreshing and enjoyable camping experience. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to make a splash in Central Alberta!

99% (426)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping spot in Central Alberta, Canada? Look no further! Hipcamp offers over 250 options tailored specifically to your swimming preference. Dive into the crystal-clear waters at top-rated campsites like The Secret Sanctuary (56 reviews), Aspen Grove (37 reviews), and Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley) (25 reviews). With popular amenities such as pet-friendly accommodations, potable water, and clean toilets, you'll have everything you need for a refreshing and enjoyable camping experience. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to make a splash in Central Alberta!

99% (426)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley)

99%

(146)

1 site · Tent, RV · Drumheller, AB

Learn more about this land: Crowned the best all-around campground in Canada for 2024, based on 2023 bookings, reviews, and ratings by Hipcamp members! Also Crowned best RV and Van Spot Award for 2024! Welcome to the ultimate outdoor adventure in the heart of the Drumheller Valley! Have you been looking for a unique and unforgettable camping experience in the Badlands of Alberta? Look no further than our campsite, located just 40 feet from the Red Deer River and camping is available all year round. Imagine waking up to the sound of the river flowing and the sun rising over the breathtaking Badlands. You can experience all of this and more when you stay at our campsite. Whether you are a nature lover, an avid hiker, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our campsite offers a secluded, peaceful retreat. Located on the world famous 30 mile Dinosour Trail, our campsite offers unparalleled access to some of the most stunning scenery in the area. From the towering hoodoos to the winding river, the beauty of the Badlands is truly unmatched. And when you stay at our campsite, you can experience it all up close and personal. But our campsite offers more than just stunning views. We also provide a range of amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. The site is equipped with a picnic table, fire pit, and outhouse and can accommodate three RV’s up to 29 ft. in length ($44 per unit per night) or 4 tents up to a maximum of 12 people total. (Also $44 per night per tent) So why wait? Book your stay at our campsite today and start planning your unforgettable outdoor adventure in the heart of the Drumheller Valley. We guarantee that you won't regret it.

2. Rough Diamond Ranch Alberta

97%

(127)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Calgary, AB

Quiet, majestic back to nature spot! This is a place to get away from a busy life. With close proximity to Winchell Lake, this land is ideal for fishing, hiking or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery. We have 4 campsites available for tent or RV/trailer campers. If you're bringing an RV, we have two power outlets and water available. You will be parking on a field and the site requires levelling. Electricity and firewood are both available for purchase (see extras below). Please add this to your reservation at the time of booking. Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome. Potable water, picnic table, and outhouse are all available. We have cows, goats, chickens, horses and dogs on the property that generally love people. :) I have only one dog and typically allow dogs to run off leash. We do have to be careful that it doesn't turn to a dog gang as this happened once and they took down one of my goats. The goats Hon and Chewy are okay but it took months for poor Hon to heal. I also worry about the chickens so please keep and eye on your dogs! Lots of treed areas for private camping, horseback riding hiking and walking! Bird watching is big around here as we are on a bird migratory path. We are just above Winchell Lake and less than 10 km from Water Valley Golf Course and Saloon. Please recognize that you are visiting a Ranch not a campsite. We are sharing our piece of heaven with you and you are helping to support our animals and their heaven. Chickens are "True" Free Range and hand fed every morning. Eggs are $10 a dozen to pay for their feed. :) Every spring the rain tends to cause ruts and washes out some of the road on the way to the back forty where the meadow is. We gather rocks on the property to fill the ditches but the early part of the year the roads can be bumpy. Please ask the conditions of the road when you book if you have concerns. Thanks!

3. 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!

4. Aspen Grove

97%

(241)

3 sites · Tents · Red Deer, AB

This property is one of the last remaining natural areas around Sylvan lake. Our family has spent over 120 years as stewards of the land and are excited to share what we have protected. Enjoy Private Tent Camping in a Pristine Aspen Forest with a fire pit and picnic table. All within 500 feet of Sylvan Lake. This is the perfect place to disconnect yourself from the city! Your fee includes free access to 120 acres of forest, excellent wildlife viewing and unlimited deadfall to use as firewood, if you don't mind some manual labour. My kids cut and split firewood if you would like some waiting at your site when you arrive. We have seasoned and split bundles for $10 and you can pre-purchase them when you complete your checkout. It's like a lemonade stand for them...just more work. ;) A professionally maintained porta-potty is on-site for your comfort. We are pet-friendly! If you enjoy the water, this is an ideal location for Kayaking, Paddleboarding or just lounging on an air mattress. With its picturesque scenery and shallow shoreline, Sylvan Lake is a great place to spend some time. Sylvan Lake's laid back nature and small-town charm are warm and inviting and have all the amenities that you could ask for. We look forward to hosting you!

5. Hidden Springs Retreat & Guesthouse

100%

(61)

8 sites · Lodging · Wetaskiwin County 10, AB

A place of restorative peace and relaxation. Located on 160 acres of rolling parkland east of Winfield, Alberta, Hidden Springs is a place to stay, play, and connect.Whether you’re seeking quiet time by yourself, or space to reconnect with friends and family, the Guesthouse is furnished to make you feel at home. Get cozy in front of the wood stove, spread a personal project out across the dining room table, settle into a puzzle or game, read on the deck, spend a day cooking, or watch the weather roll in across the valley.The Guesthouse is made up of two self-contained suites (upper and lower) connected by exterior stairs. The upper suite features a full kitchen (including stove, fridge, microwave and water cooler), a spacious living room, wood stove, and a large deck overlooking the valley. This suite sleeps up to four guests, with a queen bed in the bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the common space.The lower suite can accommodate up to six people, with two queen-size beds and an additional pullout. It features a kitchenette (including sink, small fridge, microwave, and water cooler.) Its small brick patio offers a serene view of the pond below.WiFi is free and available throughout the guesthouse.

6. Raptor Valley Farm

95%

(28)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Drumheller, AB

Located on a private country setting. 34 acres of quiet and relaxing space set back in the hills of Drumheller. Out house and potable water close to pad. 7 min from Drumheller, on 70 million year old land. Lots of wildlife. Owners on premise. Positioned next emus and ostrich. Working farm with chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, emus, ostrich, cats etc. Birds for sale.

7. Riverside camp with Highland Cows

100%

(57)

1 site · Tent, RV · Red Deer, AB

Nestled into a Valley alongside a winding riverbed, our campsite offers guests a peaceful stay in nature. With a secret beach only a short walk away, guests will be able to have fun floating on the river on hot days or simply enjoy the breathtaking views through the stunning forest leading up to the shore. Our highland cows can also be seen grazing in the pastures nearby! There are ample walking trails with scenic views all over the property- we invite you to explore. Our 160-acre regenerative agriculture family farm came to be in May of 2021. After previously homesteading on a humble 1-acre property our family had dreams of owning more land where we could establish a farm to call home for many years to come and farm in ways that would be sustainable for generations to follow. Upon first look, the heart and soul that the original owners poured into this property shone like the sun glaring on the water of the river. We knew this was the perfect place to call home for our growing family, and a place so beautiful we could not wait to share it with others.

8. DNA Gardens

90%

(10)

10 sites · RVs · Red Deer County, AB

RV camp spot within our beautiful orchard, inside our game fence! We can accommodate vehicles up to 45 ft in length and the sites are flat. Only a 10-minute walk to our farm store, outdoor licensed cafe. We have self guided nature trek trails, 4 Km hike, bat walk, antique trail. We produce lovely wines and spirits which are available for purchase. Friday nights in the summer you can reserve a spot for our Bootlegger Brisket Dinner, Beef Rib Dinner or Long Table Dinner. We have Wine tasting tours in our orchard you can also make a reservation for. Saturday evening is pizza night and Sunday Ultimate Pancake breakfast, Special events such as night bat walk, UPIK fruit . Check us out online or on Facebook. Easy to explore the badlands of Alberta from here. Just an hour away from the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller. Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park only 15 minutes as the crow flies. DNA Gardens grows 19 varieties of Saskatoons and is the oldest commercial grower of this berry in the world. At the garden, couples, families, and the like can enjoy fruit picking and plenty of fun! Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome on a leash. Orchard gates need to be opened and closed at all times. We are a working orchard We look forward to hosting you!

Camper favorites in and near Central Alberta

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Aspen Grove

97%

(241)

3 sites · Tents · Red Deer, AB

This property is one of the last remaining natural areas around Sylvan lake. Our family has spent over 120 years as stewards of the land and are excited to share what we have protected. Enjoy Private Tent Camping in a Pristine Aspen Forest with a fire pit and picnic table. All within 500 feet of Sylvan Lake. This is the perfect place to disconnect yourself from the city! Your fee includes free access to 120 acres of forest, excellent wildlife viewing and unlimited deadfall to use as firewood, if you don't mind some manual labour. My kids cut and split firewood if you would like some waiting at your site when you arrive. We have seasoned and split bundles for $10 and you can pre-purchase them when you complete your checkout. It's like a lemonade stand for them...just more work. ;) A professionally maintained porta-potty is on-site for your comfort. We are pet-friendly! If you enjoy the water, this is an ideal location for Kayaking, Paddleboarding or just lounging on an air mattress. With its picturesque scenery and shallow shoreline, Sylvan Lake is a great place to spend some time. Sylvan Lake's laid back nature and small-town charm are warm and inviting and have all the amenities that you could ask for. We look forward to hosting you!

Hidden Springs Retreat & Guesthouse

100%

(61)

8 sites · Lodging · Wetaskiwin County 10, AB

A place of restorative peace and relaxation. Located on 160 acres of rolling parkland east of Winfield, Alberta, Hidden Springs is a place to stay, play, and connect.Whether you’re seeking quiet time by yourself, or space to reconnect with friends and family, the Guesthouse is furnished to make you feel at home. Get cozy in front of the wood stove, spread a personal project out across the dining room table, settle into a puzzle or game, read on the deck, spend a day cooking, or watch the weather roll in across the valley.The Guesthouse is made up of two self-contained suites (upper and lower) connected by exterior stairs. The upper suite features a full kitchen (including stove, fridge, microwave and water cooler), a spacious living room, wood stove, and a large deck overlooking the valley. This suite sleeps up to four guests, with a queen bed in the bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the common space.The lower suite can accommodate up to six people, with two queen-size beds and an additional pullout. It features a kitchenette (including sink, small fridge, microwave, and water cooler.) Its small brick patio offers a serene view of the pond below.WiFi is free and available throughout the guesthouse.

Raptor Valley Farm

95%

(28)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Drumheller, AB

Located on a private country setting. 34 acres of quiet and relaxing space set back in the hills of Drumheller. Out house and potable water close to pad. 7 min from Drumheller, on 70 million year old land. Lots of wildlife. Owners on premise. Positioned next emus and ostrich. Working farm with chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, emus, ostrich, cats etc. Birds for sale.

Riverside camp with Highland Cows

100%

(57)

1 site · Tent, RV · Red Deer, AB

Nestled into a Valley alongside a winding riverbed, our campsite offers guests a peaceful stay in nature. With a secret beach only a short walk away, guests will be able to have fun floating on the river on hot days or simply enjoy the breathtaking views through the stunning forest leading up to the shore. Our highland cows can also be seen grazing in the pastures nearby! There are ample walking trails with scenic views all over the property- we invite you to explore. Our 160-acre regenerative agriculture family farm came to be in May of 2021. After previously homesteading on a humble 1-acre property our family had dreams of owning more land where we could establish a farm to call home for many years to come and farm in ways that would be sustainable for generations to follow. Upon first look, the heart and soul that the original owners poured into this property shone like the sun glaring on the water of the river. We knew this was the perfect place to call home for our growing family, and a place so beautiful we could not wait to share it with others.

DNA Gardens

90%

(10)

10 sites · RVs · Red Deer County, AB

RV camp spot within our beautiful orchard, inside our game fence! We can accommodate vehicles up to 45 ft in length and the sites are flat. Only a 10-minute walk to our farm store, outdoor licensed cafe. We have self guided nature trek trails, 4 Km hike, bat walk, antique trail. We produce lovely wines and spirits which are available for purchase. Friday nights in the summer you can reserve a spot for our Bootlegger Brisket Dinner, Beef Rib Dinner or Long Table Dinner. We have Wine tasting tours in our orchard you can also make a reservation for. Saturday evening is pizza night and Sunday Ultimate Pancake breakfast, Special events such as night bat walk, UPIK fruit . Check us out online or on Facebook. Easy to explore the badlands of Alberta from here. Just an hour away from the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller. Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park only 15 minutes as the crow flies. DNA Gardens grows 19 varieties of Saskatoons and is the oldest commercial grower of this berry in the world. At the garden, couples, families, and the like can enjoy fruit picking and plenty of fun! Campfires are permitted, pets are welcome on a leash. Orchard gates need to be opened and closed at all times. We are a working orchard We look forward to hosting you!

Stories from the community

Sabrina

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Aspen Grove

Beautiful spot! Very close to the water, beautiful trails, and very peaceful. Drank my tea and watched birds and deer hang around me. Camped here in the fall, will for sure be back in the summer.

L

Lauren

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley)

Lovely location, just close enough to Drumheller and the museum but far enough for some unplugged fun. Very easy to communicate with the hosts and wonderful little set up!

V

Veronica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Aspen Grove

Lovely place in an amazing location! The walking trails straight from the campsite are beautiful. The boat launch nearby is a nice place to sit and reflect as well. Great communication from the host.

M

Marina

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley)

LOVED THIS! It was so private and beautiful. We had a fantastic, unplugged weekend in a gorgeous setting. At night the only sounds were the coyotes and the owls. I would totally book this spot again.

A

Abdul

September 2025

1 night at The Secret Sanctuary

An amazing private, quiet and clean hidden gem. Denika and her family were more than amazing and hospitable. The aspen tent is well equipped and very neat. I’m adding this spot to my favourite list and encouraging everyone to catch a break at this place.

Debbie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley)

Beautiful spot. Clean outhouse, wood platform and picnic table. Private. Better than most campgrounds!

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Raptor Valley Farm

Gorgeous views from tent pad and amazing stars at night. My daughter loved meeting Peanut the ostrich and emus. Thanks!

very private, lots of tree coverings, shade if needed.

J

Ji Soo

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at The Secret Sanctuary

Great experience! Very helpful and kind. I really liked how they set up the toilet with a sink nearby, so convenient! The llama and the dog they have were absolutely lovely as well.

K

Katie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rough Diamond Ranch Alberta

The host was very nice and friendly, and the campsites were private and tucked right into the outdoors. Perfect spot for a peaceful stay!

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Aspen Grove

For the second time this year an amazing stay at the Hideaway, made even better by host Gordon who kindly left a propane fire pit for us to use during the fire ban, lots of wildlife to be seen and the vintage trucks and farm equipment are a great touch on the walking trails, and to top it off a private fishing spot with picturesque views at the rocky lockout trail, we will be back next year.

S

StarMariaStorm

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside camp with Highland Cows

We have been here multiple times and everytime i’m more amazed with the beauty of this site. Super great amenities for family entertainment! Thank you Brooke for allowing us campers to stay on your beautiful property!

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!

M

Marlene

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Secret Sanctuary

The weekend was wonderful. The glamping tent was beautiful and the bed was cozy warm. The morning breakfast was amazing. We enjoyed sitting around the campfire being visited by a llama! We walked the trails and hugged a tree. Great time. Thankyou you Denika and family.

T

Teghan

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Aspen Grove

Beautiful site! Tucked away with easy beach access, Will definitely be back:)

K

Katie

September 2025

24 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Rough Diamond Ranch Alberta

The meadow site was breathtaking! Long marked path heading to site. The perfect spot for a quiet, remote vacation. Laura was very helpful and accommodating. Beautiful horses and long horned cows. My family will definitely be back! 👩🏽‍🌾

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Badlands River View (Drumheller Valley)

I had a great 2 nights here, it was very hot but there's a little trail down to the river where you have your own private spot! Beautiful area, quiet campsite and clean outhouse. Close to Drumheller for all the tourist attractions. Amazing sunsets at camp! We saw a deer, 2 bunnies, a squirrel and many birds. Host was very nice and hospitable. Definitely will return.

R

Roberto Antonio

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Aspen Grove

I loved the camping tent on the Gordon’s land. His hospitality was such a nice. The campground is incredible, charming landscape nearest to the lake. We for sure swing by again. Thanks Gordon 🙏🏼♥️

C

Cat

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Raptor Valley Farm

Wonderful location! The birds were fantastic and unique neighbours for the night. The hosts were lovely, too.

R

Riley

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Aspen Grove

Had an amazing time camping here, would recommend 100%

M

Mitch

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Rough Diamond Ranch Alberta

Really unique and fun camping spot. We stayed in the forested portion of the property and it was quiet and well treed. It was fun driving through pastures and watching the cows feed in the evening. Laura was really friendly and accommodating with my 2 kids while they helped do some small chores and pet/played with the horses.