About Chinchaga
Chincnaga Wildland Provincial Park is a large WPP located in Northern Alberta about 140km west of Manning, Alberta. The park is about 800 square kilometers and covers boreal forest, wetlands, and lakes.
The Chinchaga Firestorm of 1950
The Chinchaga area was the site of one of the largest wildfires in North American history. The fire started north of Fort St. John, British Columbia and burned eastward to the Keg River, Alberta area. It started as the likely result of Imperial Oil surveying of the Fort St. John region making them the likely cause of the fire – either through a controlled burn becoming uncontrolled (agriculture clearing), or an accidental spark in dry brush by machinery or ever cigarettes.
The fire burned through the summer and fall of 1950 and by October, more than 10 square kilometers of the Chinchaga area had been burned. The total area of the fire was estimated at about 17,000km2 by the time it was extinguished.
See All Alberta Wildland Provincial Parks
Activities at Chinchaga
Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park is a remote and rugged wilderness area located in northern Alberta, Canada. The park is one of the most pristine and untouched natural areas in the province, and it offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the true wilderness of Canada. With no road access, the park can only be accessed by foot, horseback, or by air, making it a true backcountry destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park is spread over a vast area of over 1.5 million hectares, and it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, mountain lions, and more. The park is also home to a variety of fish species, including Arctic grayling, brook trout, and lake trout, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
One of the best ways to explore Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park is by camping in the park’s backcountry. The park has several primitive campsites that are located throughout the park, and they offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the true wilderness of the park. The campsites are accessible only by foot or horseback, and they provide a peaceful and secluded environment for camping enthusiasts.
Birding is another popular activity in the park, with over 200 species of birds found within its borders. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, golden eagles, ospreys, and a variety of waterfowl. Birding enthusiasts can explore the park’s wetlands, forests, and grasslands to spot these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Canoeing and kayaking are not recommended in the park due to the fluctuations in the water levels of the rivers and lakes.
Fishing is another popular activity in the park, with several lakes and rivers offering a variety of fish species. Visitors can fish for Arctic grayling, brook trout, lake trout, northern pike, and more. However, visitors should make sure to obtain the appropriate fishing licenses and follow all fishing regulations in the park.
Hunting is also permitted in Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park, and it is a popular activity among local residents and visitors. The park offers a variety of big game species, including moose, black bears, and grizzly bears. However, visitors should obtain the appropriate hunting licenses and follow all hunting regulations in the park.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, the park offers a variety of motorized activities, including OHV riding and snowmobiling. The park has designated trails for OHV riding and snowmobiling, and visitors can explore the park’s rugged terrain and snow-covered landscapes.
Winter activities are also popular in the park, with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, skijoring, and winter camping all available to visitors. The park’s snow-covered landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop for these winter activities, and visitors can experience the park in a completely different way during the winter months.
Overall, Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park is a true wilderness paradise that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and discover the natural beauty of Canada’s backcountry. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Camping at Chinchaga
The camping at Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park is random backcountry camping. There are no facilities in the park
| Campground | Amenities | Type of Site | Amount Available | Cost/Night |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Random Backcountry Camping | None | Random Backcountry | N/A | $0.00 |
Day Use at Chinchaga
There isn’t any designated day use areas at Chincaga Wildland Provincial Park.
Distances to Alberta Cities
Distances are unavailable as the park is a remote destination. There are no roads leading into the park.
Coordinates: 57°10’39.3″N 119°34’36.4″W
