Kinbrook Island Provincial Park sits on the eastern shore of Lake Newell, about 13 km south of Brooks, Alberta, along Hwy 873. Lake Newell is one of southern Alberta’s largest man-made lakes, offering warm water recreation and scenic wetland habitat.
The park is popular for camping, boating, swimming, wildlife viewing, and wetland exploration.
Check the official website here.
Plan Your Visit – Getting There & Access
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Access from Brooks via Hwy 873 heading south, then local roads leading into the park.
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The campground registration/booth operates daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM in the peak season.
Hours, Seasons & Facilities
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Camping Season: The park is open year-round, though many campground loops close in winter.
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Service Changes: Water in campsites is shut off in early October; showers / flush toilets are available until Thanksgiving weekend.
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Campsites:
• Total: 199 sites (185 powered, 14 unserviced)
• Winter Camping: 10 unserviced sites open in winter
• Rates: Powered ~$35/night, Unserviced ~$27/night; Winter unserviced ~$36/night
• Reservation Window: Up to 90 days ahead -
Amenities: Showers, flush toilets, playground, picnic shelters, boat launch, water taps, power hookups, sewage disposal, and concession (seasonal)
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Day Use: Boat launch, swimming, picnic areas, playground, firepits, water taps.
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Notes: Some loops are closed off in winter; firewood may not always be sold off-season.
Things to Do / Activities
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Boating & Water Sports: Canoeing, kayaking, sailing, power boating, water skiing, windsurfing (with posted speed restrictions).
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Swimming: The Beach on Lake Newell is popular; the lake is warm and inviting.
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Fishing: Permitted throughout the lake.
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Interpretive Marsh / Wetland Trail: A trail through wetlands for birdwatching and habitat observation.
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Birdwatching / Wildlife: Species include American white pelican, gulls, Caspian terns, herons, and marsh species.
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Camping / Overnight Stay: Stay inside the campground with full facilities when open.
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Picnicking / Day Use: Use the picnic shelters, firepits, playground, and beach for day visitors.
Visitor Tips
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Book early, especially for powered or beach-adjacent sites during summer weekends.
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Verify facility status, as water and showers are seasonal.
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Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, water, and shade gear.
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Launch only from approved ramps, and comply with the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) rules for watercraft.
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Boat speed limit in swimming zones: 12 km/h.
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Plan for wild prairie weather: wind, sun, and rapid weather changes are common.
Getting Back
Leave via the same road system back to Brooks on Hwy 873. Many visitors combine a stay here with trips to Dinosaur Provincial Park or the Brooks Aqueduct, both within drivable distance.
Final Note
Kinbrook Island Provincial Park is a gem for both recreation and nature lovers. On hot summer days, the lake offers welcome relief; for birders and naturalists, the wetland areas are a treat.
Whether you're boating, camping, swimming, or exploring trails, it’s a flexible destination well-suited for families and outdoor adventurers. Just plan with respect to seasonal closures and facility availability, and you’ll have a pleasant stay by Lake Newell.