Kootenay Plains Provincial Recreation Area

Cavalcade Group Campground

Your Basecamp to Explore the Kootenay Plains

by | Published on April 16, 2017 | Last updated on April 16, 2017

Based on a visit to the area on July 15, 2013, September 29, 2014, September 13, 2015 and September 4, 2016

Despite its small size, the PRA is a great option to base your adventure in the area from.
The nearby Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve protects an area that is significant for historical, native and environmental reasons while the Provincial Recreation Area provides a basecamp from where to explore it. The PRA is relatively small in size, covering only an area somewhat bigger than the campgrounds and day use area that are within it.
Kootenay Plains PRA

Wildflowers on the edge of the campground

Kootenay Plains PRA

Great views from Two O’Clock Creek Campground

The Two O’Clock Creek Campground is one of our favourite in David Thompson Country and the nearby trails offer excellent hiking opportunities.

Things To Do

Other than camping there is not actually a lot to do within the PRA itself. As mentioned, it is a great basecamp to explore the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve, Bighorn Backcountry and Abraham Lake area.

Hiking

The Two O’Clock Ridge trail starts within the PRA, at Two O’Clock Creek Campground. Other nearby trails include Siffleur Falls, Survey Hill, Heritage Trail, Bridge Creek, Kinglet Lake and Tuff Puff Ridge.

Starry Nights

There are no towns nearby making it a great location for an evening of star gazing. We’ve often seen groups with telescopes in the field during the later parts of the season, when the days are getting shorter.

Climbing and Ice Climbing

For more information about local routes contact COE.

Camping

Two O’Clock Creek Campground offers great options with great views from every site. Calvacade Group Campground includes kitchen shelters and is a great option for groups large and small.

Day Use Area

Head to Two O’Clock Creek Campground for a small day use area at the trailhead for the Two O’Clock Ridge trail.

Plan Your Adventure

The information below is based on our numerous visit to the area, including on July 15, 2013, September 29, 2014, September 13, 2015 and September 4, 2016.

  • Activity: Camping, Hiking, Climbing, Ice Climbing, Geocaching
  • Services: Campgrounds, Day Use Area
  • Picnic Tables: Yes
  • Washrooms: Dry toilets
  • Season: May to October
  • Congestion: Moderate
  • Getting There: The Kootenay Plains Provincial Recreation Area is located on Highway 11 approximately 29 km east of Saskatchewan River Crossing and 64 km west of Nordegg. Access is at the Two O’Clock Creek Campground.
  • Management: Alberta Parks
  • Protection Status: Provincial Recreation Area
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes
  • Permits / Restrictions: None
  • Cell Reception: None

Outdoor Safety

  • For your safety and the protection of the area please follow trail signs, stay on the trail and respect all trail closures
  • Be respectful of wildlife and familiarize yourself with wildlife safety techniques including keeping your pet on a leash and keeping your group together.
  • Always use the bear proof garbage bin, keep a clean site and store your food in a bear safe fashion.
  • Always be prepared when travelling outdoors.
  • This area has no cell phone reception. We recommend carrying an InReach on your hikes. A pay phone is available near the trailhead at the highway pullout across from the Cavalcade Group Campground.
  • Information provided here may be inaccurate or outdated. Always make sure to obtain current information before going on your adventure.

Disclaimer

There are inherent risks in outdoor activities. Although we strive to provide accurate information and to alert you of potential dangers, trail conditions may change quickly due to weather conditions and other factors. Using the information provided on this site is entirely at your own risk and Pursuit Adventures is in no ways liable for any injuries or other damages that may be sustained by anyone using the trails or information described on this site.

Have you been to this campground? Let us know about your adventure in the comments below.

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