Learn-to Camp - Edmonton

Elk Island National Park

Enjoy the outdoors with Parks Canada’s Learn-to Camp Program.

The Learn-to Camp program prepares visitors with the skills and experience to fully enjoy nature and the outdoors.

Explore the camping basics.

A group of people learning about nature in Elk Island National Park
A group of people playing giant Jenga at a campsite in Elk Island National Park

Public program opportunities

Learn-to Camp in-person and virtual programming is available for the summer 2026 season.

Overnight Learn-to Camp Experiences

Learn-to Camp overnights are family-friendly weekend events designed to teach the fundamentals of camping in the great outdoors. Campers will spend Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning taking part in hands-on workshops on how to pitch a tent, build a campfire, use a camp stove, and much more!

Tents, foam sleeping pads and camp stoves are provided.

Everyone is welcome!

The 2026 public overnight event dates are:

  • Saturday July 25 to Sunday July 26, 2026
  • Saturday August 1 to Sunday August 2, 2026

Reservations open Monday May 25, 2026! To register for the public Learn-to Camp overnight event at Elk Island National Park, please call 1-844-365-2646 from Monday to Friday, between 8-4pm MDT.

Online learning opportunities

Virtual programs are available upon request. Please contact ltc-iac-edmonton@pc.gc.ca for inquiries.

Previous workshop recordings at the Edmonton Public Library can be replayed by following the event links below.

Camping with Babies and Toddlers

Camping 101

Camping Conversation Club

Available for English language learners (virtual only)

Participants will practice their English conversation skills and learn about national parks in Canada in this conversation club style workshop.

Private program opportunities

In-person workshops are available to community organizations within Edmonton. They generally range between 60 to 90 minutes. A minimum of 15 participants is required.

To book or to learn more about private Learn-to Camp workshops please email: ltc-iac-edmonton@pc.gc.ca

Workshop Topics:

Choose Your Own Winter Adventure

Available for everyone
Everything you need to know to create a fun-filled camping itinerary, regardless of your skill level. Learn about nearby parks, types of camping and plenty of other outdoor recreational activities.

Camping 101

Available for everyone
Camping basics workshop for beginner and intermediate campers. From setting up a tent to cooking outdoors, participants will learn the camping skills to feel confident on their next trip!

Wild for Wildlife

Available for everyone
Become an expert in Canadian wildlife before your next adventure! In this workshop, learn about wildlife and explore ways to protect these special critters who call Canada home.

Nature at Night

Available for everyone
Winter nights are long, and those dark winter skies offer some fun nocturnal activities. In this workshop participants will learn how to best observe nighttime wonders like the Northern Lights, starry skies and nocturnal Canadian wildlife while staying safe and warm.

AdventureSmart: Hug a Tree and Survive

Suitable for ages 5 to 12
This is an AdventureSmart program that teaches children how not to become lost in the woods, and what to do should they become lost.

Yo Bear, Woah Bear

Suitable for ages 12 and up
Gain the skills to enjoy Canada’s outdoors while helping protect both yourself and the bears who live here. Learn how to be Bear aware and the best practices for co-existing with wildlife.

Learn-to Bird

Available for everyone
Curious about birdwatching? Join us for a beginner-friendly program where you'll learn to identify local bird species, and enjoy the sights and sounds of summer. Binoculars are available to borrow, or bring your own!

A Beary, Berry Good Day

Suitable for English language learners and youth 4 to 12
An interactive story that follows Ursa, a young grizzly bear cub living in Banff National Park. Find out if she can rely on her instincts to remain a wild and healthy bear. This workshop will introduce you to bears and their behaviour.

 
Public Drop-in opportunities

Interested in attending a public drop-in?
Visit us at:

Elk Island National Park

  • Wahkotowin Craft Market, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 to 5:00 pm
  • Canada Day, July 1, 2026 | 10:00 to 4:00 pm
  • Parks Day, July 18, 2026 | 10:00 to 4:00 pm

Interested in attending a public workshop?
Visit us at:

Fort Saskatchewan Public Library

Leduc Public Library

  • Camping with Babies and Toddlers, June 18 | 10:00 to 11:00 am
    Register at the Leduc Public Library

Spruce Grove Public Library

  • Camping with Babies and Toddlers July 9 | 10:30 to 11:30 am
  • Wild for Wildlife, July 16 | 1:30 to 1:30 pm
    Register at the Spruce Grove Public Library

Contact

For general inquiries about the Edmonton Learn-to Camp program email ltc-iac-edmonton@pc.gc.ca

Parks Canada App

Take all our great Learn-to Camp content on the go with the Parks Canada app. Download it today! Learn more about the Parks Canada app.

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