Oster Lake Backcountry Campground

Elk Island National Park

Oster Lake Backcountry Campground offers a truly unique and wild camping experience. With no city lights and no vehicle noise, this hike-in campground is perfect for individual or group camping needs.

Located on the west shore of Oster Lake in one of the most picturesque and serene areas of the park, this tenting-only site provides a truly unique and wild camping experience. Oster Lake is a waterfowl sanctuary offering a place to catch a glimpse of plains bison, coyotes and many of the 250 species of birds found in the park.

Oster Lake Backcountry Campground has five reservable campsites, making it ideal for:

  • Tent campers
  • Hikers and backpackers
  • Wildlife watching
  • Visitors seeking a rustic camping experience
Features:
  • Pit toilets available
  • Picnic table and fire pit provided at each site
  • Fire permits can be purchased at the Visitor Centre. Firewood is available at the campground

Potable water is not available at the Oster Lake Backcountry Campground.

Know before you arrive:
  • Potable water is not available at the Oster Lake Backcountry Campground. Visitors must bring their own water for drinking and washing.
  • Be aware of bison. Bison are free roaming and frequently visit this area of the park. Learn more about being bison wise.
  • File a trip plan with a trusted adult and prepare to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 24 hours in all weather conditions and emergency situations as help may not be immediately available.
  • Review all camping safety, regulations and etiquette before departure.
  • Cellular telephone coverage varies by carrier and may not be available in all areas of Elk Island National Park.
  • Before starting campfires, find out if a fire ban is in place: check the important bulletins or call the Visitor Centre: 1-780-922-5790.
  • Fee information
Access the campground:
  • Park your vehicle at the Tawayik parking lot and hike in using Shirley Lake Trail (4 km). All trails in Elk Island National Park are multi-use. Be prepared for encounters with hikers, cyclists, trail runner, horses and wildlife on all trails.

Reservations are mandatory. In-person registrations are required. Review the campground hours of operation for more information on the operating season dates.

Reserve by phone or online:

Call 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783). Available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local park time

Outside of North America: (519) 826-5391

For more information call the Parks Canada national information line at 1-888-773-8888.

Campground Check In / Check Out

  • Check in at the Elk Island National Park Visitor Information Centre upon arrival
  • Check in time is 2:00 pm.
  • Check out time is 11:00 am.

Emergency:

  • For incidents involving wildlife call Parks Canada Dispatch 1-877-852-3100. Response times may vary
  • In case of an emergency dial 911
  • Hospitals are located in Lamont and Fort Saskatchewan. The Lamont Hospital closes at 8:00 pm; after-hours emergencies must be taken to Fort Saskatchewan

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