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Island Lake Campground (Athabasca County Park)
Overview
Island Lake Campground, managed by Athabasca County, provides a serene lakeside retreat for RVers seeking a classic Alberta outdoor experience. Operating seasonally from May through September, this destination is well-regarded for its **scenic shoreline views** and a relaxing atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city. The park balances a natural forest setting with essential services, making it a reliable choice for families planning extended summer vacations or quick weekend getaways.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is positioned approximately 25 kilometers northwest of the town of Athabasca and is easily reached via Highway 2. It is situated within the **heart of the boreal forest**, where towering spruce and aspen trees provide excellent privacy and shade for the campsites. The landscape is defined by the tranquil waters of Island Lake, which offers a stunning natural backdrop and a sense of isolation from the hustle of daily life.
Amenities & Park Features
The facility offers **41 individual campsites**, with a selection of sites featuring 30-amp power connections to accommodate modern RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit for evening gatherings. Key features of the park include:
- A **large sandy beach** with a designated swimming area for all ages.
- A public boat launch and pier for easy lake access.
- A modern playground and a dedicated fish cleaning station.
These amenities ensure a comfortable stay while maintaining the rustic charm of a well-kept municipal park.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The lake itself is a hub for recreational activities, particularly for those who enjoy **paddling, water skiing, and fishing** for yellow perch and northern pike. Beyond the water, visitors can explore the nearby Athabasca Golf & Country Club or take a short drive into town to visit the Athabasca Riverfront. The region is also rich with **scenic hiking trails** that are perfect for birdwatching, photography, and exploring the local flora and fauna.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an excellent choice for **families with young children** who will appreciate the expansive beach and modern playground facilities. It is also well-suited for anglers and boat enthusiasts who want direct access to the water in a quiet setting. RVers looking for a **peaceful, rustic environment** with the convenience of electrical hookups will find this municipal gem to be a perfect, low-stress home base in Northern Alberta.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jeremie Parisien
Beautiful campsite. Always so nice and clean. And beautiful views of a few mountains
Tishia Johansen
Nice large area for parking or camping close to the road but has the middle of nowhere fill. Quiet and relaxing.
mrs bananaslug (mrsbananaslug)
A lovely uncrowded little spot, good for overnight or two. 23$ per night, picnic tables and designated sites. Kayak, paddleboard, swim. NOTE: there is a friendly, habituated to humans Raven near the lake who spends a lot of time on the ground. Please leash your dog.
carpe diem
The place is rather large and well positioned between BC and Alberta so if you're traveling and need a place to stay for the night it does the trick nicely. However, locals seem to take camping sites as day use areas so most good spots are temporarily taken so travelers can't camp there. Additionally, toilets could use a more frequent refresh and highway noise is omnipresent so if you have options you may want to consider going elsewhere.
Ken Stuart
The Alberta Government needs to do some housecleaning at this site, it's a neat site to visit though!