Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area
RV Guide

Introduction

If you find yourself longing for an RV getaway, why not consider a trip to Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area? It's an amazing place for your next outdoor adventure.

Situated near to Pincher Creek, AB, Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area offers families the opportunity to enjoy true wilderness-style camping in the heart of the Canadian prairies. This beloved recreational area and campground sits near to the southern portion of the Rocky Mountain range, affording families breathtaking views worthy of capturing on film.

An extremely remote park, Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area boasts of many outdoor activities for families to enjoy. The reservoir is home to a sand-lined beach that is the ideal spot for a refreshing dip on a hot day or a stroll along the sand. Watersports are also a popular attraction with many families making use of the on-site boat launch to engage in such activities as canoeing, power boating, waterskiing, sailing, and windsurfing.

Avid fishermen will love to try their hand at reeling in the catch of the day from the banks of the shore or a boat out on the water. When the temperatures start to plummet, ice fishing is a popular sport, with both locals and visitors from afar coming to enjoy the calm and peaceful nature of this beloved winter activity.

For an outdoor vacation you'll not soon forget, bring the family to spend their next RV stay at Alberta's Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area. It's the perfect place for a relaxing vacation.

RV Rentals in Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area

Transportation

Driving

The journey from Pincher Creek, AB, to Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area is 37 km (23 miles). To begin this route, make a right hand turn onto Waterton Ave/AB-6 S until you reach the exit for AB-505 E. Turn left at this sign and continue on this highway until you see the park ahead. The highways along this trek are kept in good condition and consist mostly of two lanes. Traffic moves fluidly with road construction occurring only occasionally. Motorists are encouraged to keep an eye for wildlife that crosses the road from time to time.

Travel from Ardenville, AB to the park and campground covers 41 km (25 miles) of terrain. Begin by heading west towards AB-810 N. At the exit for AB-810 S, turn left. Follow along this road until you reach the signs for AB-505 W and make a right hand turn here. Continue along this highway until you see the park just ahead. The roads along this route are in good condition and consist of two lanes. Infrequently, there is road construction which could cause some delays. Traffic moves well except when interrupted by wildlife crossing the highway.

Parking

Parking is available via the lot at the entrance to Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area.

Public Transportation

Due to its remote location, there is no public transportation available to Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area.

Campgrounds and parking in Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area

Campsites in Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area

First-come first-served

Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area

Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area is open from May 1st through October 14th yearly for tent and RV camping. There are 25 unserviced sites available, and they are provided on a first come, first served basis. Generator use is allowed, and dogs are welcome on the property but must remain leashed.

A rustic camping facility, this campground offers the following amenities: a boat launch, a pier, firepits, pit toilets, and a water pump. Though water is available through the pump, it is not suitable for drinking. For consumption purposes, you must bring water with you from home.

The most popular activities at this campground include swimming, paddling, waterskiing, hiking, windsurfing, and fishing.

Seasonal activities in Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area

Off-Season

Photography

Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area is an extremely scenic spot, making it the ideal haven for both amateur and professional photographers to work on their portfolio. As you meander the grounds, you will soon see that you will not want for worthy subject matter. You can capture photos of the Rocky Mountains lining the distance or the gentle waves lapping against the sandy coast.

The forested regions are also home to a number of species of plant and animal life that offer picture perfect opportunities for photographers to capture. Bring along your dog if you like, but be sure to keep them leashed and from disturbing any of the plant or animal life.

Beachcombing

Even when the weather is chillier, the beach at Waterton Reservoir remains a beautiful spot for enjoying a leisurely walk. Bring along your leashed dog or traverse the sandy shores on your own in search of seaside treasures such as seaglass or shells.

Be certain to wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet. You will also want to bring along drinking water and some snacks to keep hunger and thirst at bay.

Ice fishing

When the weather turns chilly, there are still lots of fun things to do at Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area. One of the most popular winter pastimes is ice fishing. Once the temperatures start to drop and the lake is sufficiently frozen solid, you can grab your rod, your reel, and a comfy chair and head out on the water in search of your next great meal.

Be sure to bundle up against the cold and bring along drinking water and hot coffee to be sure your hydration needs are met.

In-Season

Boating

Waterton Reservoir is home to a boat launch and a pier, making it a natural haven for families looking to enjoy watersports. The pier is a great place for avid fishermen to perch and cast out their lines in search of the catch of the day.

For families who enjoy boating, the on-site boat launch offers them the opportunity to deploy their canoe, power boat, or other pleasure craft into the crisp, clear waters of the reservoir.

Other popular activities at this outdoor oasis include paddling, waterskiing, windsurfing, and sailing.

Picnicking

When the sun is shining and the temperature is rising, is there anything more enjoyable than a picnic? Picnicking is a favorite activity at Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area. There are several different picnic areas where families can snag a table and enjoy a packed lunch from home. Prefer something a little more back to nature? Why not lay a blanket down on the ground and spread out your feast there for your family and friends to enjoy?

Bring along drinking water and a fully stocked picnic basket. Your dog may join you on your picnic adventure, but please take care to keep them leashed.

Swimming

Waterton Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area is home to a sand-lined beach that is the perfect place for cooling off on a hot summer's day. Just a few feet from the campsites, families can take a dip in the refreshing, clear waters of the reservoir where they can practice their best breast stroke or float their cares away. Lifeguard service is not provided here, so it is important to only swim when the water is calm.

The sandy coastline is an excellent spot for taking a stroll to search for seaside souvenirs. After your fun in the sun, relax in the sand with a good book and a cool drink while you work on your summer tan.