Head to Northwest Alberta and Peace River Country to surround yourself with nature.
A small hamlet in the northwestern section of Alberta, Deadwood is very rural and all about pristine nature. Choose from provincial parks like Figure Eight Lake Provincial Park and Notikewin Provincial Park for a camping trip, or opt for wide open private campsites where you won’t see a single other person. The Peace River also runs nearby as a remote recreation corridor with excellent paddling and fishing. Deadwood is roughly a six-hour drive from Edmonton, but campers can head into Manning, 20 minutes from Deadwood, for restaurants and supplies for your next adventure. The Battle River Pioneer Museum is also worth a visit for its regional artifacts, including an albino moose and a 1,500-year-old arrowhead. In the County of Northern Lights, Deadwood lives up to the namesake during the dark winter months for those who wish to brave the cold.
Figure Eight Lake features both a campground and water access for paddling, fishing, and swimming. Just remember to be bear aware—keep a clean campsite and store all food in bear-proof containers.
About an hour’s drive north of Deadwood, Notikewin Provincial Park is another great park in the county that offers 19 campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities are limited to vault toilets and fire rings, so campers should bring their own water and pack out any trash. The area’s Peace River beaches are perfect for summer swimming, lounging, and fishing for pike and walleye. Additionally, hiking and biking trails make it easy to explore the park.
Although a hot spot for the northern lights in winter, Deadwood is primarily a summer destination for campers. Summer means the waters are open for boating and fishing, plus the golf courses are in prime condition. Fall is also worth considering, as the colors change and temperatures drop while still remaining in safe ranges. Winter campers should be experienced with a reliable heat source and cold-weather camping equipment at a minimum. Deadwood area campgrounds are largely seasonal and closed during the bitterly cold season. If in the area during the snowy months, visitors can take advantage of great cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.