Red Rock Coulee Natural Area
Giant red boulder-like concretions scattered across prairie badlands.
About Red Rock Coulee Natural Area
Red Rock Coulee, south of Medicine Hat, is a small natural area where large, round, reddish concretions (some about 2.5 m across) sit on eroded badlands. It's an otherworldly place for photos at sunrise or sunset.
A brief history
The concretions formed within the Late Cretaceous Bearpaw Formation, when mineral cement (mainly calcite and ironstone) built up around bits of shell, bone and other debris. Erosion has since exposed them.
RV tips
- It's a natural area with no camping or services. Visit as a day trip from Medicine Hat or Cypress Hills.
- Access is via rural roads. Avoid after heavy rain, as the clay gets slick.
- Watch for rattlesnakes and bring water.
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