Prairies · Alberta
Elk Island National Park
Free-roaming plains and wood bison on Edmonton's doorstep.
Province
Alberta
Established
1913
Size
194 km²
Coordinates
53.62°, -112.85°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Elk Island National Park
A short drive east of Edmonton, Elk Island is the only fully enclosed national park in Canada and a critical conservation site for both plains and wood bison. The aspen parkland and lake-dotted landscape is a Dark Sky Preserve.
Why visit
- Almost-guaranteed bison sightings
- Dark Sky Preserve close to a major city
- Astotin Lake beach and paddling
- Easy day trip from Edmonton
Things to do
Plan your days.
Astotin Lake drive and beach
scenic drive
Wood Bison Trail loop
wildlife
Astotin Lake Campground
camping
Dark sky stargazing
stargazing
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Astotin Lake — full-service with lake access
- Backcountry: Oster Lake (hike-in)
Best time to visit
- Spring
- April–May: new calves, fewer mosquitoes.
- Summer
- June–August: warmest, busiest, mosquitoes peak.
- Fall
- September–October: rut, golden aspens, clear nights.
- Winter
- November–March: cross-country skiing, snowy bison photography.
- Peak
- July through August.
- Shoulder
- May or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Bison are visible from the road most days — observe from a vehicle and never approach.
Common species
Plains bison · Wood bison · White-tailed deer · Elk
Signature species
Wood bison · Plains bison · Beaver
Wildlife safety
Bison are unpredictable and dangerous; keep 100 m distance.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Edmonton
- Lamont
- Fort Saskatchewan
Nearby attractions
- Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
- Edmonton's River Valley
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Edmonton weekender
Day in the park, evening in the city.
family
Family bison weekend
Camp Astotin, walk Wood Bison Trail, stargaze.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Elk Island National Park.
Can I camp in Elk Island National Park?+
Yes. Elk Island National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Elk Island National Park?+
Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends; a portion of sites may remain first-come, first-served.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Elk Island National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 10/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Elk Island National Park?+
May, June, September. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include plains and wood bison, elk and beaver. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
Yes — designated loops accommodate RVs and trailers. Check site dimensions and service availability (electrical/water/sewer) when booking, as not every site offers full hookups.
How many days should I spend here?+
One to two days as a weekend escape.
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