We are in the hottest days of summer in Alberta.
These weekend getaway inspirations can help you to unwind on the hot days, help you to connect with family, or can even get the party started with a few festivals scheduled. If you’re in Peace River or Vegreville for the Stampedes and Fairs, you can find several affordable hotel options for the weekend.
Mountain Park Cemetery
Visit Mountain Park Cemetery and Historic Mining Townsite this weekend. Mountain Park is a former Alberta town that relied on the nearby coal industry. As mines slowly became abandoned, so too did the town of Mountain Park. The Mountain Park Cemetery is a short drive south of the town of Cadomin, and along the way are interpretive signs, the entrance to an abandoned mine, and an old, restored cart.
When: Summer to Fall
Where: Cadomin
How much: Free
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North Peace Stampede
This weekend is an exciting time in Peace Country with the North Peace Stampede and party going from Friday to Sunday in Lac Cardinal. You and your family can get the thrills of classic rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, and midway rides in one weekend. The area has several places to camp, stay, or explore outside of the Stampede as well like Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park: here you can find firs-come-first-served campsites, a beach, and boat launch.
When: August 5-7, 2022
Where: Lac Cardinal Sports Grounds – Grimshaw
How much: $10-$25 admission
Vegreville
The Vegreville and Deerland County Fair starts up this Wednesday, August 3rd, and continues until Sunday with midway rides, chuckwagon races, livestock displays, and nightly entertainment. Vegreville can make a convenient weekend trip for many in central Alberta, and Fair can keep you and your family busy during your entire stay. If you visit the Fair for a day, check out other nearby sites like the giant Pysanka and Elk Island National Park. The NP offers trails, canoe/kayak rentals, and epic stargazing.
When: August 3-7, 022
Where: Vegreville Fair Grounds – 4753 45 Avenue, Vegreville
How much: $5-$10
Trochu Arboretum and Gardens
Maintained by Arboretum and District Society, Trochu Arboretum and Gardens is home to many varieties of native flora and fauna. While exploring all the different trees and flowers, you will also enjoy the sights and sounds of many bird species.
Among the greenery, you will find picturesque pathways for wandering and meandering, as well as benches and gazebos for places to stop and smell the Alberta Wild Roses.
When: Summer Season
Where: 622 N Rd, Trochu
How much: $5
Pincher Creek
You have many reasons to visit Pincher Creek in August, with the foothills and Rocky Mountains surrounding the picturesque town. But this coming weekend, the Pincher Creek’s Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village is hosting their Summer Shindig- even more reason to visit! The annual event is an all-day celebration of everything summer like barbecue food, live music, outdoor markets, kids’ games, and more.
Where: Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village – 1037 Bev McLachlin Drive, Pincher Creek
How much: $6-$30
Unique Camping near Lethbridge
Finally, you found it! This is where you will be finding a unique little campground with several amenities to make your stay memorable and fun. In addition to the on-site activities, you also have Park Lake PP, the Little Bow River, and Lethbridge, just a short drive from camp. On the property, you can enjoy the above-ground pool, or paddle around the pond!
Where: 15 minutes east of Lethbridge, exact location provided upon booking
How much: $60 per night
Glamping near Cold Lake
Take the stress and work out of camping, and simply show up to these glamping tents near Cold Lake for a relaxing weekend in the woods. The beautifully decorated sleeping tent is on a 2km private pathway where you’ll also find a private shower/bathroom house. This is a perfect location for stargazing by a nighttime fire, enjoy some time with friendly farm animals, or enjoy some beach time.
Where: near Ethel Lake and Cold Lake, exact location provided upon booking
How much: $130 per night
Quaint Guesthouse near Red Deer
Take a load off this weekend with this adorable guesthouse stay in central Alberta. Your accommodations include the basics of a cabin, along with a private deck and firepit, and all the quiet of the countryside location. In addition to the city of Red Deer, you’re also near the Red Deer River, local beaches, and the Discovery Canyon lazy river.
Where: southeast of Red Deer, exact location provided upon booking
How much: $110 per night
Alberta Parks
If you are looking for last-minute camping options in Alberta Parks (provincial parks), you can check available options online. Enter the dates you want to camp and leave the Park and Campground area blank. Alberta Parks will show you a map of all the provincial campsites available for the selected dates; there are more than you think!
Some camping options:
- First Come First Served Camping Options
- 25 Places to Go Camping in and Around Calgary
- 25 Places to Go Camping In & Around Edmonton
- 20 Places to Go Comfort Camping & Glamping in Alberta
- 15 Provincial Park Day Trips From Edmonton
- 15 Provincial Park Day Trips From Calgary