Elk Island National Park of Canada

Winter Camping

Description

The Winter Camping Area is located in the boat launch parking lot in the Astotin Lake Area ( map ). This primitive site is available to individuals or groups who wish to camp during the winter months. Vehicles must park in the parking lot of the boat launch. Pump-out toilets are available at the north end of the parking lot. Flush toilets are available at the Astotin Theatre. A covered picnic shelter, outdoor picnic tables, fire pits, and firewood are available south of the parking lot; however, pathways are not cleared in winter. Your group may camp anywhere between the washrooms and the picnic shelter, either in the snow or in the parking lot itself (as long as cars can circulate in the parking lot). Bring your own supply of water as this is not provided during the winter.

Fees

There is currently no camping fee to camp in the Winter Camping Area, however, this may change in the future. A valid park permit (day pass or annual pass) must be displayed while in the National Park. Day permits are good until 4 p.m. the day after the permit is issued. ( Fees )

Regulations

Access: The map of the Park will direct you to the Astotin Lake Area from either of the three gates. The Winter Camping Area is designated on the map with a white tenting symbol.

Wildlife: Bison and other wild animals roam freely throughout the Park and can readily access this area in the winter. Review safety tips on the Safety & Hazards page.

Quiet time : Quiet hours are in effect between 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Clean up : Please ensure that your site is left clean and that you report any damage.

Emergency

• Dial 911 for emergency.
• Hospitals are located in Lamont (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and Fort Saskatchewan.
• A pay telephone is located by the men's washroom to the North of the main parking lot in the Astotin Lake Area. Cell phones can also be used though reception is not guaranteed.
• The Warden 24-hour emergency number is (780) 992-6389. Response time may be up to 1 hour.