Explore Nature at Elk Island National Park

Located in Alberta, Canada, Elk Island National Park was created in 1906, is completely enclosed, is approximately 74.9-square-miles, and was the first wildlife sanctuary in Canada. It has such a rich history and has made a significant positive impact on wildlife, especially bison. Without further ado, let’s discuss some more about Elk Island National Park and how you can visit.

The bison
Before we get into the rest of the details, how Elk Island National Park has helped bison is certainly worth a mention. In the early 1900s, with so few of these bison left, 410 of them were transported to the park from Montana, and since then, several of their disease-free bison have been transferred from the park thanks to significant efforts that have been made to help revitalize the bison population. If you want to learn more about the history of the bison, you can take a backstage tour or, during your visit, you may also come to a herd of bison while you’re driving the roads. If you’re particularly interested in the latter, it’s more likely to happen during the later summer months.

The animals
In addition to bison, there are several other animals that you can see at Elk Island National Park. For example, you may come across white-tailed deer, moose, and elk. There are also hundreds of species of birds to watch out for.

Camping
There are dozens of campsites in Elk Island National Park, so whether you stay in an RV or in the oTENTiks at the Astotin Lake Campground or you opt for somewhere else, if you’re looking to explore nature and get away from the busy hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, camping is an option you may definitely want to consider. Whether you prefer sleeping directly under the stars or something that comes with the comforts of a home away from home, there’s something for everyone. Camping reservations are recommended.

Activities
Want to have some fun in the great outdoors? There are plenty of activities you can do in Elk Island National Park in addition to camping and viewing wildlife. For example, you can take pictures, go on a picnic, or go for a hike, sit in front of a campfire, go canoeing, gaze up at the stars, or go golfing. When you have so many activities from which to choose, you’ll never have a second of boredom.

Admission
Take note that while it is free to enter Elk Island National Park, camping is not free. If you want to take guided tours, you’ll have to pay for those as well. If you have any questions about what is or isn’t going to require money or if you have any other questions, make sure to ask ahead of time before making any reservations.

Now that you know a little more about how you can get closer to nature and explore all the beauty the area has to offer, all that’s left to do is research the exact activities that you want to do and make your plans to visit Elk Island National Park. It’s an experience you certainly won’t forget.