Chain Lakes Provincial Park

Open year-round, Chain Lakes offers 122 campsites, many of which are secluded. On hot days, enjoy the beach, or many other water activities. The kids will love the playground and the seasonal on-site concession provides hot meals and specialty coffees as well as snacks. Cell service may not be available here but there is a payphone at the concession.

Located at the intersection of Hwys 533 and 22, just 75 minutes north of either the Crowsnest Pass or Pincher Creek, this park makes for a great stop from which your family can comfortably explore the southern leg of The Cowboy Trail.

Day trips to nearby towns and tourist attractions include: • The Historic Bar U Ranch (27 km north) • Longview (40 km north – jerky & restaurants) • Nanton (40 km northeast – antiques & Bomber Command Museum of Canada) • Frank Slide Interpretive Center (93 km southwest) • Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (120 km southeast) Nestled between Porcupine Hills and the Rocky Mountains, it provides some of the nicest views of Alberta’s rolling foothills. The lakes are stocked with rainbow trout so bring along your fly fishing gear and your licence. Native bull trout may also be found in the lakes but they are a catch-and-release species.

Numerous trails connect the camping loops to the lakefront, the main day use area and the boat launches. To stretch the legs, or to let the kids blow off some steam, grab the bikes or take a stroll across the dam to the group area then follow the road back up to the park office.

Bird watchers will be pleased that the lakes and geographical location make it an excellent venue for birding. Look for longeared owls, loons, great blue herons and trumpeter swans. Wildlife viewing opportunities are very good here, as well. You may spot cougar, lynx, elk, moose, grey wolf, and grizzly bears.

For more information phone (403) 382-4097. To reserve your campsite go to Reserve.AlbertaParks.ca.