Alberta provincial parks see strong year

Alberta is celebrating another successful year for their parks.

In 2024, more than 228,000 camping reservations were processed with over 2.3 million visitors taking in an overnight stay in reservable camping spaces.

Information officers, interpreters and park rangers recorded more than 670,000 interactions with visitors, ensuring safe, enjoyable and enriching experiences in our provincial parks and recreation.

“I’m incredibly proud of our provincial parks system which continues to support outdoor recreation, conservation goals and good-paying jobs for Albertans. Our parks remain accessible while providing so many people with the chance to experience our beautiful backyard,” said Todd Loewen, minister of forestry and parks.

This year saw some new things for residents and tourists to do. Newly established Kleskun Hills Provincial Park and La Biche River Provincial Recreation Area were explored last year. The provincial government also launched the Plan for Parks public engagement helping guide recreation and conservation priorities in Alberta.

Even with the winter months now firmly set in, provincial parks still have offerings. Alberta still has winter recreation opportunities like downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and winter camping.

Alberta has more than 470 provincial parks and recreation areas with more than 250 front-country campgrounds.

According to the province, provincial parks contribute an estimated $1 billion annually to provincial GDP. Last year concession sales included 76,000 bundles of firewood, 70,000 frozen treats, 45,000 souvenirs, 28,000 bags of ice and 2,100 canisters of bear spray.

Read more: RCMP stress safe swimming across province