Getting out of the city and into nature has always been something we value as soon as it starts to get warm out. Summer for us is all about camping and exploring some new areas we have never been to before. While some people prefer to stay in hotels or Airbnb (which we do on occasion) we find that the most cost-effective way to explore an area is through nature and camping.

While we definitely have some favorite spots to camp, our goal this year (and going forward) has been to check out a new campsite every year, and this year we are lucky to have 3 new places to visit (Sandy McNabb, Chinook Lake, and Tofino) assuming covid-19 doesn’t impact any of our tenting reservations.

Below is my review of how our first camping adventure went at Sandy McNabb and what fun things you and your family can do in this beautiful provincial park. Keep an eye out for future camping posts as this summer unfolds.

Sandy McNabb Campsite & Area Guide

Find It On A Map

Sandy McNabb Campground is found in Sheep River Provincial Park, 21 KM west of Turner Valley on Highway 546.

Campsite Amenities

Reservable
Powersite (we normally try and avoid power sites when possible as it generally is more expensive)
Pit/Vaulted Toilets
Flush Toilets / Showers (closed due to Covid)
Water-Taps
Playground
Firepit & Picnic Table
Dirty Roads (packed down and useable with bikes )
Firewood available ($10 a bundle)
No Cell Service

Note: Starting June 1, 2021 you’ll need your NEW Kananaskis Conservation Pass. It’s a $15 per day, or $90 per year pass for vehicles stopping in both park and public land within Kananaskis and provincial day-use areas in the Bow Valley corridor.

Fun Things To Do

We normally plan our camping adventures around lake activities like paddleboarding and kayak fishing, but since this was our first time camping with our 1-year old nephew we wanted to make it as easy on mom and dad. This is why all our scenic adventures were manageable and timed perfectly around his nap schedule, and was only 40 minutes away from the campsite.

Bighorn Lookout | 25 Minute Drive From Sandy Mcnabb

Enjoy a short and easy stroll through lush green meadows to the bermed viewpoint of the Bighorn Sheep Meadow (0.5 km).

We brought a blanket and a few snacks to enjoy on the hillside while taking in the view. Sadly there were no Bighorns to see, but the unique and breathe taking view is worth the visit regardless.

Sheep River Falls | 40 Minute Drive From Sandy Mcnabb

Sheep River Falls is an easy out and back trail (0.5km), that is very popular, as it is good for all skill levels. It was moderately busy when we visited with lots of people enjoying the falls.

There are picnic areas, some flat rocks you can sunbathe on, and several parts of the falls and river you can explore.

The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is best used from May until September.

Things We Didn’t Get Around To Doing

Hard Knox Brewery | Black Diamond
Fahr Brewery | Turner Valley
Foran Grade Loop with Windy Point and Sheep Trail | 6.9 kilometer