Elk Island National Park
A fenced "island of conservation" with plains and wood bison, east of Edmonton.
About Elk Island National Park
About 35 km east of Edmonton on the Yellowhead Highway, Elk Island is Canada's largest fully enclosed national park. It's home to plains and wood bison, moose, elk and beaver, and has easy lakeside trails and dark skies.
A brief history
In 1906, five men from Fort Saskatchewan petitioned the federal government to protect a remnant elk herd, and "Elk Park" was created. It became a federal park in 1913 and a national park in 1930. Elk Island played an important part in saving the plains bison.
RV tips
- A Parks Canada pass is required. There's a campground in the park, so check Parks Canada for booking.
- Bison often walk on the roads. Stay in your vehicle and give them plenty of room.
- A short drive from Edmonton, so it's a good first or last night of a trip.
Before you go: Hours, road conditions, campground availability, passes and fire bans change. Check the official source below, 511 Alberta and Alberta Fire Bans before you travel. National parks need a Parks Canada pass, and Kananaskis needs a Conservation Pass.
Campgrounds nearby
- Astotin Lake Campground (Parks Canada, typical about $32/night)
Costs are approximate (checked October 2026). All Alberta campgrounds →
Sources & more information
Related trip planning: Alberta RV routes · Pre-trip checklist · Crown land camping