PROVINCIAL PARKS
Carson Pegasus Provincial Park
Located just 20 kilometres from Whitecourt, the picturesque Carson Pegasus Provincial Park provides the perfect setting for a variety of summer activities. Escape to this natural oasis, a scenic hour and a half drive from Edmonton.
Mixed-wood forests of aspen, balsam fir, balsam poplar, and white spruce provide the backdrop for your outdoor adventure - whether it be hiking the trails, fishing for rainbow trout in the waters of McLeod Lake, or viewing the variety of wildlife and bird species. Explore McLeod Lake via motor boats, rowboat, canoe, paddleboat, or kayak that are available for rent at the Park.
Park amenities include:
- 181 private campsites to accommodate RV or tent campers (41 powered sites)
- 80 reservation sites
- group camping, perfect for family reunions and large gatherings
- toilet and shower facilities
- a wide variety of hiking and nature trails
- boat launch and seawall fishing
- playground
For more information on Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park visit the website or call 780-778-2664 to reserve your site today.

REGIONAL PARKS
Centennial Park
Located on the south boundary of Whitecourt, this large green space has kilometres of trails for biking, hiking, and jogging. Before heading out on the trails, make sure to pick up a trail map from the Visitor Information Centre located at the Forest Interpretive Centre or download a trail map from this website.
E.S. Huestis Demonstration Forest
The Huestis Demonstration Forest was developed with a focus on demonstration and learning as it relates to the boreal forest. Since 2006, the Huestis Demonstration Forest partnership has worked hard to renew, repair, and revitalize the site and is pleased to unveil all new educational signage, kiosks, picnic tables, bear-proof garbage cans, and several new hiking trails for you to enjoy. It is a great place to stop, stretch your legs, and learn about our amazing wilderness.
The site is only minutes from Whitecourt, just north of the Highway 43/Highway 32 junction. The site includes a self-guided tour with information kiosks, hiking trails, a tree garden, day-use parking, and washroom facilities. The driving or walking tour follows a 7-kilometre road loop, embedded within 10 acres of working forest.
Groat Creek
Groat Creek is a quiet and beautiful day-use site located just off of Highway 32 south. The location is perfect for an afternoon picnic or a rest stop. Seven sites complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and outdoor washrooms are available for your enjoyment. A wood shelter is also available; however, you must supply your own wood.
Hard Luck Canyon
Hard Luck Canyon is a beautiful place nestled in the forests of Woodlands County. Located 20 kilometres from Whitecourt on West Mountain Road, the canyon makes for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's a perfect place to go and enjoy a breathtaking view of the ancient cliffs with the sound of the trickling falls and creek nearby. It is a prime location for visitors and local residents alike to relax for a picnic, or take some time to just relax under nature's canopy. Woodlands County has expanded the amenities located at the canyon in 2010 and has added new washrooms, picnic tables, a walking trail and bridge.
Heritage Park
Discover Whitecourt's roots at Heritage Park. Located on the grounds surrounding the Forest Interpretive Centre, this park features three visitor accessible heritage buildings and a number of assorted antique industrial equipment. Make sure to explore the 800 metre Interpretive Trail that winds throughout the forest.
Riverboat Park
Want to ride the rivers? Located on the west edge of Whitecourt, the boat launch located in Riverboat Park provides access to both the McLeod and Athabasca Rivers. The park also features a picnic area and shelter. This is a popular local fishing spot!
Rotary Park
Rotary Park is your outdoor destination for family, outdoor activities in Whitecourt. The park features a splash park, picnic areas, sports fields, a playground, Whitecourt's Off-Leash Dog Park, an asphalt trail, and a pond that is stocked for family fishing in the summer and cleared for skating in the winter. Rotary Park is also home to Whitecourt's most popular family attraction - the Whitecourt River Slides. For more information click here.
WILDLIFE
Wild and ruggedly beautiful.
Visit Whitecourt on your next bird watching expedition in the boreal forest.
Due to our diverse geographical location between boreal forest, foothills and parkland natural areas, Whitecourt and Woodlands County are home to numerous species of songbirds, birds of prey and water birds. Come see the majestic Trumpeter Swan, Great Blue Heron, Black-Throated Green, Cape May, Bay Breasted Warblers, Northern Goshawk, Northern Pygmy Owl, Bald Eagle, and Belted Kingfisher to name a few.
Viewing areas include:
- Hard Luck Canyon
- E.S. Huestis Demonstration Forest
- Forest Interpretive Centre and Heritage Park
- Groat Creek
- Carson Pegasus Provincial Park
- Riverboat Park
For more information call or visit the Whitecourt Forest Interpretive Centre at 1-800-313-7383.