Alberta’s provincial parks have something to offer everyone, whether camping, hiking, skiing or enjoying informative programming. More than 228,000 camping reservations were processed this year, with about 2.3 million visitors enjoying an overnight stay in reservable camping spaces.
Camping in Cypress Hills Provincial Park. Photo courtesy Travel Alberta
Visitors to Alberta’s provincial parks continue to report high satisfaction rates of 87 per cent, due in large part to the hard work and dedication of Alberta Parks staff. This year, information officers, interpreters and park rangers recorded more than 670,000 interactions with visitors, ensuring safe, enjoyable and enriching experiences in our provincial parks and recreation areas.
“I’m incredibly proud of our provincial parks system which continues to support outdoor recreation, conservation goals and good-paying jobs for Albertans. Our parks remain accessible while providing so many people with the chance to experience our beautiful backyard.”
As demand rises for diverse recreation opportunities and improved accessibility, Alberta’s government continues to invest in the province’s outdoor spaces. Progress continues on creating additional campsites while enhancing those that already exist, and we continue to actively seek out opportunities to create new, exciting visitor experiences. This year, Albertans were able to explore the newly established Kleskun Hills Provincial Park and La Biche River Provincial Recreation Area.
In 2024, Alberta’s government also launched the Plan for Parks public engagement. The plan will guide recreation and conservation priorities for the next 10 years, ensuring Alberta’s provincial parks and recreation areas benefit for generations to come. The next phase of engagement will take place in 2025.
“Kananaskis Country is the crown jewel of our province, where the breathtaking mountain beauty inspires deep connections to nature, bolsters Alberta’s visitor economy and leaves a lasting and positive impact on all who visit.”
“It’s no secret that Albertans and visitors make the most of the summer months in our provincial parks and recreation areas, but don’t let the changing weather stop you from getting outdoors. Hinton and surrounding areas offer incredible opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing and plenty of other activities.”
As the months grow colder, Alberta’s provincial parks still have much to offer. Alberta is home to world-class winter recreation opportunities, including downhill skiing at Hidden Valley Ski Resort in Cypress Hills Provincial Park, cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre, winter camping and countless other experiences.
Quick facts
- Alberta is home to more than 470 provincial parks and recreation areas with more than 250 front-country campgrounds.
- More than 150,000 visitors participated in interpretive programs, including music events, guided hikes and special events.
- Concession sales at Alberta Parks this year included more than:
- 76,000 bundles of firewood
- 70,000 frozen treats
- 45,000 souvenirs
- 28,000 bags of ice
- 2,100 canisters of bear spray
- Alberta’s provincial parks contribute an estimated $1 billion annually to provincial GDP, provide $400 million in labour income and support almost 9,000 jobs for Albertans.