Activities and experiences

Elk Island National Park

Fill your cups with hot chocolate and look up at the stars or go behind the scenes of bison conservation at a bison handling facility. Elk Island National Park offers something for everyone looking to connect with the natural world around them, from day picnickers to overnight campers.

Free admission and discounted overnight stays

Parks Canada is offering free admission and discounted overnight stays at participating locations, from June 20 to September 2, 2025 inclusive.


Blue-green algae advisory - Astotin Lake

Parks Canada is advising visitors that blue-green algae is currently present in the waters of Astotin Lake. Avoid contact with the water in the lake or near the shores of this lake at this time.

More information

A young man looks out of his tent while a women reads a book at Oster Lake Backcountry Campground in Elk Island National Park.

Camping

Enjoy the nostalgia of camping in the very heart of Elk Island National Park.

a bison grazes beside the road in Elk Island National Park

Wildlife safety

Important information about staying safe while enjoying Elk Island National Park.

Visitors capture pictures of bison from a safe distance... Elk Island National Park

Wildlife watching

Keep an eye out for wildlife!

A couple captures photographs from the Living Waters Boardwalk... Elk Island National Park

Hiking

Enjoy a hike on a park trail!

A Parks Canada interpreter shows visitors a bison skull... Elk Island National Park

Tours and programs

Guided tours, programs, workshops, and learning experiences.

Silhouettes of a group of people on Astotin Beach at sunset. An island and a paddler are visible in the background.

Beaches

Astotin Lake offers a peaceful lakeside setting for your next picnic or family outing.

Keep the "wild" in wildlife.

Know how to prevent and handle encounters with them. For more information, visit Safety and Guidelines.

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