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Prince Albert National Park

Boreal · Saskatchewan

Prince Albert National Park

Where the boreal forest, aspen parkland and prairie meet.

Province

Saskatchewan

Established

1927

Size

3,874 km²

Coordinates

53.97°, -106.07°

9/10

Family friendliness

7/10

Hidden gem

8/10

Photography

Overview

About Prince Albert National Park

Centred on the resort townsite of Waskesiu, Prince Albert National Park is a Saskatchewan summer institution — long lake paddles, free-ranging bison in the Sturgeon River plains, and Grey Owl's cabin reachable only by canoe.

Why visit

  • Grey Owl's cabin canoe trip
  • Sturgeon River plains bison herd
  • Waskesiu Lake — a true cottage country lake
  • Boreal birding (over 230 species)

Things to do

Plan your days.

Multi-day canoe to Grey Owl's cabin

kayaking

Beaver Glen and Red Deer campgrounds

camping

Waskesiu Lake paddling

boating

Sturgeon River plains bison drive

wildlife

Camping

Camping in the park.

FrontcountryBackcountryRV friendlyRecommended
  • Beaver Glen — closest to Waskesiu
  • Red Deer — quieter and shaded
  • Backcountry: Kingsmere Lake to Grey Owl's cabin

Best time to visit

Spring
May–June: green-up, cool nights, bird migration.
Summer
July–August: warm lake, peak Waskesiu season.
Fall
September: golden trees, calm water.
Winter
December–March: cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
Peak
July through August.
Shoulder
June or September.

Wildlife

What you'll see.

Sturgeon River road at dawn for bison; Kingsmere Lake for wolves.

Common species

Black bear · White-tailed deer · Beaver · Common loon

Signature species

Plains bison · Wolf · Lynx

Wildlife safety

Bears and bison both — keep distance and store food in lockers.

Nearby communities

Where to base yourself.

Nearby attractions

  • Lac La Ronge Provincial Park
  • Batoche National Historic Site

Suggested itineraries

Pick a length.

weekend

Waskesiu beach weekend

Townsite, lake paddle, evening campfire.

camping

Grey Owl canoe trip

Three days canoeing Kingsmere Lake to the historic cabin.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Prince Albert National Park.

Can I camp in Prince Albert National Park?+

Yes. Prince Albert 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 Prince Albert 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 Prince Albert National Park family friendly?+

Our family score is 9/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.

When is the best time to visit Prince Albert National Park?+

July and August. 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 bison, black bears, wolves and loons. 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?+

Two days for the townsite; four to five for the backcountry canoe trip.

Verify current conditions on Parks Canada