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Chain Lakes
Overview
Chain Lakes Provincial Park offers a serene escape nestled in the rolling foothills of the Canadian Rockies. This destination is defined by its sprawling reservoir, which serves as a central hub for outdoor recreation. Unlike high-traffic commercial resorts, this park provides a more traditional camping experience where the natural beauty of the Southwestern Alberta landscape takes center stage. It is an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the quiet rhythms of the prairies while remaining within reach of modern conveniences.
Location & Surroundings
Situated approximately 40 kilometers west of Nanton along Highway 22, also known as the Cowboy Trail, the park offers a unique transition between the flat prairies and the jagged peaks of the Livingstone Range. The surroundings are characterized by vast grasslands and clear horizons, providing spectacular views of both sunrises and sunsets. The high-altitude environment means the air is crisp, and the wind often sweeps across the reservoir, making it a favorite for water-based activities in a picturesque mountain-view setting.
Amenities & Park Features
The park accommodates RVers with a variety of site types, including those equipped with 30-amp power hookups in specific loops. While the facilities lean toward the rustic side, visitors have access to essential services such as a sanitary dump station and potable water taps. Families will appreciate the well-maintained playground and picnic shelters, while the boat launch provides easy access to the water. The sites are generally spacious and offer a mix of open areas and some light tree cover, emphasizing the park’s breezy prairie character.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Fishing is the primary draw here, as the reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, making it a year-round destination for anglers and ice fishers alike. Beyond the water, a short drive brings travelers to the charming town of Nanton, famous for its antique shops and the Bomber Command Museum of Canada. History buffs and those looking for a local treat at the famous candy store will find plenty to explore within a 30-minute radius of their campsite, making it a great base for day trips.
Who This Park Is Best For
Chain Lakes is a perfect match for RVers who prefer peaceful, nature-focused stays over amenity-heavy resorts. It is particularly well-suited for birdwatchers and photographers who want to capture the rugged beauty of the Alberta foothills. If you enjoy boating or windsurfing and appreciate a campsite that feels like a gateway to the mountains, this provincial park offers the quiet atmosphere and scenic backdrop you are looking for in a classic Alberta camping trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Juliana Fernandes
Wonderful views! Nice rig camping spots, just electrical but the campground offers a paid dump ($6 for 15 minutes of use, just accept coins) and free potable water to fill up the fresh tank. It also have community kitchens and it’s pretty handy for big cooking, gathering with friends and family and also campground has a common fire pit and they provide the wood! Bathroom is just the vault, no showers :( Beautiful lake great for kayaking, paddle boards, boats, inflatables, motor boats and fishing! We loved it!
Jess Gunn
3 Reservable campground loops, two of which are powered for RVs and trailers. Loop B has more of a view over the lakes. The pit toilets were particularly clean and didn't smell when we were there. Sani dump available. Boat launch and picnic day use area available as well, although not many trees around for shade. All in all not a bad spot especially if you are traveling through to or from Calgary
ACP MAHARASHTRA
Very best Provincial Park. The Camp site is very well organised and beautiful Camping site. There is Community Kitchen with cooking facilities for four families at a time with drinking water and Six families tables for dining. There are many Washrooms with cleanliness. Volunteer and staff are very cooperative and helpful. Lake is just near the campground. So you can play swim and do boating. Very clean and healthier environment. Must visit at least once to experience the beauty of nature. Thanks for reading this review
Richard Susik
Nice and quiet spot, water was calm. Plenty of spaces, free picnic tables or just benches around. One small drawback, no trees so no shades. Excellent service, informations from Visitors Centre.
Michael Parker
Nice sites not much for privacy though. Friendly neighbours but a little noisy the first couple night with partiers but quiet after that. When it got cold better have a heater because no flames are allowed. Even the propane firepit was banned. I wish Albertafirebans website reflected that would saved space in what I hauled out. Had to use my BBQ to warm up which coincidentally also had an open flame so not sure of the logic they are using to ban propane fire pits.