Big Knife Campground Alberta

Location: 130kms east of Red Deer next to the Battle River Alberta.

Description: Big Knife campground contains 50 campsites located on well kept grass and treed sites that offer some privacy. The campground is well suited for both RV’s and tents. Amenities include horseshoe pits, picnic tables, fire pits, water, dry toilets, refuse containers and boat launch. The Battle River offers good Northern Pike, Walleye and Perch fishing, you’ll need a fishing license to try your luck. Boaters will find a well designed boat launch for smaller water craft. The adjoining estuaries are perfect for canoes and kayaks.

There are also a few nicely groomed trails that follow the river valley offering good wildlife viewing. One trail leads towards the Big Knife Hoodoos. This is somewhat unusual for the prairies and it adds a nice sense of wilderness to the campground. According to the Alberta Government, long ago this park was the home of “One Eyed Nelson” and his moonshine operation.

The Electric Battle River Generating Plant is a few kms east and the Luscar Paintearth Coal Mine is located a few kms south of here. Both operations offer guided walks and tours. Another nearby point of interest is the Diplomat Mine Interpretive Site that is well worth the visit. You’re kids and mechheads will love the big diggers on display there. Night skies here rank # 2-3 on the Bortle Scale. See the official web site link below for fees, opening and closing dates.

Big Knife Campground Layout Map in PDF