News
Feds announce progress on campgrounds in Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park’s renewed Townsite Campground following
Federal Infrastructure Investment program improvements.
Credit: Parks Canada Agency (CNW Group/Parks Canada)

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK, Alta. — Parks Canada Agency announced $8.7 million towards the design work and first phase of reconstruction for the Crandell Mountain Campground, and highlighted improvements to the Townsite Campground’s visitor infrastructure as it reopens for the 2021 season.

“With the Townsite Campground fully open, there are now more opportunities for Canadians to do so safely in Waterton Lakes National Park,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, in a prepared statement. “In addition, rebuilding Crandell Mountain Campground with green, accessible infrastructure means an investment in both the park’s visitor services and in protecting its ecological integrity. When we are on the other side of this pandemic, we look forward to welcoming back visitors from all over the world to experience the beauty of Waterton Lakes National Park.”

The Crandell Mountain Campground was destroyed in the 2017 Kenow Wildfire, and is being rebuilt, along with over 30 other assets, as part of the Road to Recovery program. Funding includes the design work for phase one and two of the campground, rare plant salvage and hazard tree removal, as well as phase one of reconstruction which includes completing underground utilities and infrastructure, the water tank and water treatment building, wildlife corridor reclamation and rough grading the Crandell Lake Trail parking lot and trailhead. Construction for phase one is expected to begin this spring, with green infrastructure at the forefront.

The Townsite Campground reopened in time for the 2021 season on May 7. The Government of Canada has invested over $10 million in the campground as part of the Federal Infrastructure Investment program. Improvements include redeveloped campsites with new trees, landscaping and utility infrastructure, resurfaced roads and new washrooms. Work continues on the campground’s maintenance facilities. This investment ensures the quality and reliability of the campground’s infrastructure and an enhanced visitor experience.