Arctic · Manitoba
Wapusk National Park
One of the world's largest polar bear maternity denning areas.
Province
Manitoba
Established
1996
Size
11,475 km²
Coordinates
57.80°, -93.17°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Wapusk National Park
Wapusk ('white bear' in Cree) is accessible only by guided tour from Churchill. It protects critical denning habitat for polar bears and a vast subarctic muskeg landscape where caribou, wolves and over 200 bird species share the tundra.
Why visit
- Polar bear maternity dens (February–March guided tours)
- Cape Churchill polar bear gathering (October–November)
- Beluga whales in the Churchill River estuary (July–August)
- Northern lights from the tundra
Things to do
Plan your days.
Tundra buggy or lodge polar bear tour
wildlife
Aurora photography from Churchill
photography
Beluga snorkel/kayak tours
kayaking
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Visitor stays are guided lodge-based — no public camping infrastructure
Best time to visit
- Spring
- February–March: polar bear cubs emerge from dens.
- Summer
- July–August: belugas in the estuary, wildflowers.
- Fall
- October–November: polar bears congregate awaiting sea ice.
- Winter
- Aurora-prime; extreme cold.
- Peak
- October–November for polar bears; July–August for belugas.
- Shoulder
- Not applicable — visitation is operator-driven.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
All wildlife viewing happens through licensed operators.
Common species
Caribou · Snowy owl · Arctic fox
Signature species
Polar bear · Beluga whale · Wolverine
Wildlife safety
Polar bear country — never enter without a trained guide.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
Nearby attractions
- Churchill Northern Studies Centre
- Hudson Bay coast
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
7 day
Churchill polar bear week
Fly to Churchill, multi-day tundra buggy or wilderness lodge stay.
photography
Beluga and aurora trip
Late August for both belugas and early aurora.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Wapusk National Park.
Can I camp in Wapusk National Park?+
Wapusk National Park does not operate traditional drive-in campgrounds. Backcountry camping or stays in nearby communities are the standard options.
Do I need reservations to visit Wapusk National Park?+
Yes — campsite reservations are required during peak season and open via the Parks Canada Reservation Service in mid-winter.
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 Wapusk National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 6/10. Good for families with school-age kids; some activities require planning and gear.
When is the best time to visit Wapusk National Park?+
October–November for polar bears; July–August for belugas. 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 polar bears, beluga whales and Arctic fox. 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?+
RV access is limited or unavailable; this park is best explored by tent, backcountry travel or day trips from nearby communities.
How many days should I spend here?+
Five to seven days based out of Churchill.
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