Pembina River Provincial Park — Attraction in Alberta

This campground has many beautiful sites and many not so great sites... overall a great typical camp ground. Our biggest frustration and complaint was arriving early to meet up with family who was already set up and camping (we came 2 days later) they informed us that the campers on our site had left and our site was available which is why we headed there early. We were informed at the gate that check in was 4pm, it was 12pm. We said we understood but knew our site was open as our family was already there. They said nope you can not come in you'll have to come back at 4pm as the sites needed to be cleaned at was run like a hotel. Early check in was not permitted. While we were frustrated we left and parked at the river run and returned at 4pm. Family informed us after we arrived that lots of trailers checked in after our attempt and they never came to check or clean our site. They did notice the staff going around and collecting wood that was left behind. (So if you think youre being kind leaving wood behind for the next person it is being picked up and I assume resold) it was frustrating that we were inconvenienced for no good reason. I understand rules but that seemed a bit ridiculous since the site was paid for by the people who.left early and again by us..and to find out this was not a standard rule we felt it was unjust. Also dissapointed to find our site was intact left with garbage and paper towels in the bushes...

Went camping here for a week with my family and my experience was Meh at best. Firstly, they reserved us into the rv sites when we all had tents (Which they knew since they asked). RV sites have zero privacy, very limited tree coverage which is needed for shade since we didn't have a camper to provide shade, or even space for 4 tents on 2 sites. Next, the outhouse by our campsite floor was rotting out. But the worst of all was that there was a huge wasp nest in the one few trees that we had. The staff couldn't be bothered to do anything about it telling us that it wasn't there responsibility and they never had the power to change our sites, that was parks Alberta's responsibility. So for a week we couldn't eat together as a family because everyone hid in their tents whenever there was food out to get away from the swarm of wasps. We had to go into town and buy wasp traps and wasp killer out of our own pockets. I then proceeded to fill a super soaker with wasp killer solution so I could shoot into the nest. It kind of decreased their numbers but didn't wipe them right out.

The river is nice because you don't get hives (swimmers itch) but the water isn't accessible to the disabled. But overall if you are considering going to Pembina Provincial Park go to Wabamun instead. Wabamun has a way nicer park, better staff who actually care about the enjoyment of the guests at the park, and their waterfront is accessible by...

Review of Pembina River Provincial Park

Pembina River Provincial Park is a fantastic spot for a family outing! Our group of seven families recently spent a day here, and we all had a wonderful time. The park offers a scenic and enjoyable environment that caters well to large groups.

The river is perfect for family fun; it's not too deep in most areas, making it accessible for kids and adults alike. However, be aware that some sections of the river have strong currents, and there are deeper spots without markings, so it's important to keep a close eye on where everyone is swimming.

One thing to keep in mind is the parking situation. Arriving early is key, as parking spaces fill up quickly, and finding a picnic spot can also be a bit crowded. Despite this, the overall experience is well worth it. There are no staff no direct you or help you at any point as they are too busy smoking or wandering off.

The natural beauty of the park, combined with the river’s playful challenges, made for a memorable day. It’s definitely a spot we’ll consider returning to for future family gatherings. If you’re planning a visit, just make sure to come early to snag a good spot and enjoy the day in...