Among one of the most unique landscapes in Canada, this area is home to fascinating paleontological history, unusual terrain, and adventures that are perfect for explorers of all ages. Whether you’re pitching a tent or staying in a powered RV site, Alberta’s Badlands, if you like dinosaurs and camping, the badlands is where to be this summer!
Let’s explore some of the options.
Badlands Campground
Situated in Drumheller, the Badlands Campground combines convenience and adventure. With its prime location along the banks of the Red Deer River, this campground offers a mix of serviced and unserviced sites, suitable for both RVs and tents. Families will appreciate amenities like washrooms, showers, a small store, and picnic areas.
Campers are just a short distance from local attractions such as the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the iconic Hoodoos. The campground also supports the Badlands Amphitheatre, with all proceeds going toward cultural events hosted on Canada’s largest outdoor stage. Activities like fishing, canoeing, bird watching, and hiking make this a hotspot for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
For a more immersive Badlands experience, Dinosaur Provincial Park—located about 48 kilometers northeast of Brooks—is a must-visit destination. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is teeming with fossil beds.
The Dinosaur Campground features 120 campsites, including unserviced, powered, and pull-through options. Shaded by cottonwood trees and situated near streams and the Red Deer River, the campground offers modern amenities like firepits, showers, potable water taps, a playground, and picnic shelters.
What makes Dinosaur Provincial Park truly extraordinary are its guided experiences. Visitors can join fossil tours, guided hikes, or adventurous excursions like the Centroaurus Bonebed Hike or the Fossil Safari. For something slower-paced, opt for family-friendly bus tours or night photography sessions that capture the park’s stunning golden sunsets.
Plan Your Badlands Getaway
Whether you’re learning about fossils, exploring breathtaking trails, or enjoying the comfort of well-equipped campgrounds, camping in Alberta’s Badlands is a bucket-list experience. This combination of nature, history, and adventure ensures memories that will last a lifetime. Be sure to book early, as campsites, tours, and museum visits can fill up quickly during the peak season.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
