Dinosaur Provincial Park

Imagine traveling through vast open plains and agricultural fields that extend as far as the eye can see until suddenly the landscape opens to a prehistoric world of rugged terrain, striated hoodoos, bluffs, and rock formations. The first people to cross Alberta’s expansive landscape discovered the Canadian Badlands with much the same excitement and bewilderment.

Dinosaur Provincial Park boasts one of the richest dinosaur fossil beds in the world, which led to it becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site. An entrance road follows a plateau until eventually the land drops and rips open into a breathtaking view of the park. A scenic overlook to the right allows visitors to stop and take in the beauty as well as read informational signs about the park.

Continuing down the road, views of the Red Deer River are visible. A visitor center, complete with exhibits, fossils, theater, and gift shop is nestled into the hillside. At the base of the road is the main entrance into the camping area. A small general store has daily necessities and a rudimentary café. Camping stalls are available for recreational vehicles, tents, and higher-end camping accommodations may be rented as well. Covered picnic areas are dotted throughout the camping areas. Not only does it provide direct access to the badlands and Dinosaur Provincial Park, but the camping area is situated adjacent to the Red Deer River.

The landscape combines an incredibly unique ecosystem of prairie grasslands, the Canadian Badlands, and riverside cottonwoods that grow along the Red Deer River. Trails can be found throughout in a variety of patterns making it hard to discern a designated, distance determined trail, but it still makes for a great adventure nonetheless. Where the topography gives way, or becomes difficult to scale, the park offers stairs to navigate. If guests choose not to hike, guided tours are available. For additional information, and booking reservations and tours, visit their website.