McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area
RV Guide
Introduction
McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area is a family-friendly RV camping park in Yellowhead County, Alberta, Canada. Set on the Mcleod River and surrounded by beautiful boreal forest, the campground is a scenic spot for camping in nature. Outdoor recreation abounds in this pretty park, from fishing and water sports to hiking, biking, and canoeing.
There is a choice of 51 shady campsites located in a northern or southern camping loop. Both campgrounds are set on the banks of the river. A group use area is also available for larger families and groups camping together.
As the park is set on the riverfront, campers come here to enjoy all sorts of exciting water recreation. Bring your own canoes or kayaks to paddle along the Mcleod River, try your luck at fly fishing for trout, or simply take a swim on a warm day - the temperatures reach an average of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 C) in the summer months.
Back on land, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails nearby as well as an interpretive trail to explore to the east of the campground. Don't forget your binoculars!
RV Rentals in McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area
Transportation
Driving
McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area can be found 14 miles (23 km) southeast of Hinton. If you're coming from Hinton, the entrance to the park can be found along the Range Road 232A, with the northern campground to your left and the southern campground to your right just after you cross the Mcleod River. If you’re taking the Robb/Hinton Road (also known as the “R” road), take care as it an active logging road.
The roads to the park are accessible by two-wheel drive cars. Once within the park, drive with caution and keep an eye out for low-hanging branches. Parking is available at the day use area as well as in the campground if you’re staying overnight.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area
Campsites in McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area
Reservations camping
North Loop Campground
The North Loop Campground has 22 campsites located along the banks of the Mcleod River. Facilities include a self-registration kiosk, restrooms, firewood, and garbage disposal. Water is available from a hand pump in the campground, but campers are advised to bring their own drinking water from home.
South Loop Campground
The South Loop Campground has 29 campsites located near the confluence of the Gregg and McLeod Rivers. Facilities include a self-registration kiosk, restrooms, firewood, and garbage disposal. Water is available from a hand pump in the campground, but campers are advised to bring their own drinking water from home.
The South Loop Campground is also close to the day-use area where there are five picnic tables overlooking the McLeod River.
Mcleod Group Use Area
A group use area is available for tents, RVs and trailers along the Mcleod River. It can accommodate a maximum of 10 camping units up to 50 feet in length. Facilities include pit or vault toilets, fire pits, a picnic shelter, and firewood. Water is available from a hand pump in the campground, but campers are advised to bring their own drinking water from home.
Seasonal activities in McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area
In-Season
Fishing
Try your luck fly fishing within the McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area - it's one of the most popular pastimes in the summer months! The McLeod River is home to a variety of fish such as rainbow trout, bull trout, or eastern brook trout and you can enjoy fishing whether you're a beginner or an expert. Please note that you may require an Alberta fishing license in order to fish in the park.
Swimming
The McLeod River is a fantastic spot for swimming and water recreation in the warm summer months. Temperatures reach a pleasant average of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 C) in peak summer, making it perfect for sunbathing and splashing about in the cool river. Bring a lilo or inflatable boat along for floating along the river banks - the views are gorgeous from the water!
Hiking and Biking
The McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area is a hiker's and biker’s paradise with all sorts of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore through the surrounding boreal forest. Take the short self-guided interpretive trail that leads through the forest to the east of the campground. With signposts along the way, you’ll learn all about the fascinating flora of the area.
Off-Season
Canoeing or Kayaking
The McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area and its scenic McLeod River is a great spot for launching a canoe or kayak and paddling upstream or downstream. Explore the banks of the Mcleod River or head further down into the Gregg River and admire the scenery along the way. Pack your binoculars as you can enjoy some epic bird watching from the water!
Winter Walks
There are some spectacular walking trails to discover through the boreal forest near the McLeod River Provincial Recreation Area. If you’re feeling energetic, take one of the nearby hiking trails. If you’re looking for something more leisurely, you can stroll the short interpretive trail located east of the campground. With signposts along the way, this self-guided trail explores the interesting plants and trees of the area.
Picnicking
While the summer months are perfect for picnicking along the Mcleod River, the off season offers a much quieter alternative. Pack a picnic and a flask of hot chocolate and enjoy a scenic lunch at one of the five picnic spots at the day use area. When the campground is quiet you’re much more likely to spot some rare winter birds and wildlife so keep your eyes peeled!
