The best camping near Buffalo Pound Provincial Park

First Nations peoples once corralled bison in this park, which is how it got its name and part of why Buffalo Pound maintains a captive herd today. Just 20 minutes from Moose Jaw with easy access to the city, Buffalo Pound offers great hiking, mountain biking, and fat-biking trails, a heated pool, beaches, and a boat launch with rentals, kayaking, and fishing. Birders love the boardwalks at the Nicolle Flats Interpretive Area and the range of wildlife viewed from the many trails. All listed campgrounds are really just loops of the same campground, which offers a full suite of services, including a store and laundry.

1. Because of this park’s proximity to Moose Jaw, Buffalo Pound is popular with locals, meaning some campsites may be booked out far in advance. To secure your site on your chosen dates, check the Saskatchewan Parks online booking site or call the park.
2. First-come, first-served sites are also available, and it’s sometimes possible to walk up at 1pm and get one, especially midweek or outside of the summer months. Just don’t take it for granted that you’ll snag a spot this way.

The park is open year-round, and if you’re into crisp cold winters with lots of snow (and all the activities that go with that) you may well want to consider a winter trip. If you’re a fair-weather camper, then plan to travel from mid-June through to October, bearing in mind that the park can get busy around major Canadian holidays (especially Canada Day on July 1, which can get rowdy with day-use visitors flocking to the beach).

• Wifi and cell reception can be patchy or non-existent in the park.
• Buffalo Pound Provincial Park offers barrier-free campsites, washrooms, showers, and full wheelchair access for campers. The pool also offers barrier-free access.
• In the summer months, black flies and mosquitoes can be a major issue, so pack extra-strength bug spray. 
• You’ll need a vehicle to get around the park and explore its surrounding areas.
• Park pass fees and camping fees both apply.