Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park
Quiet badlands and an ancient bison jump on the Red Deer River.
About Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park
Northeast of Trochu, the road drops into a hidden valley of badlands. A flat-topped mesa (the "dry island") rises about 200 m above the Red Deer River and still carries native prairie grasses.
A brief history
Plains peoples drove bison over the cliffs here to supply their communities. The isolated plateau has never been developed and is one of the reasons the park was protected.
RV tips
- The road into the valley is steep and gravel, so it's not ideal for large RVs. Check Alberta Parks for current conditions.
- A small, rustic campground. Check Alberta Parks for details.
- Very little shade or water in summer.
Before you go: Hours, road conditions, campground availability, passes and fire bans change. Check the official source below, 511 Alberta and Alberta Fire Bans before you travel. National parks need a Parks Canada pass, and Kananaskis needs a Conservation Pass.
Campgrounds
See Alberta campgrounds in this region for typical costs, hookups and booking links.
Sources & more information
Related trip planning: Alberta RV routes · Pre-trip checklist · Crown land camping