Campsite Rehabilitation Program
Willmore Wilderness (also known as Improvement District #25) has many of historic campgrounds. These stopping places were mapped by the Alberta Government Forestry Department in 1990. The maps show dozens of historic campsites. The Willmore Wilderness Foundation has been upgrading the fallen-in and broken-down campgrounds.
Campground restoration will be done using saddle and pack horses to comply with the Willmore Wilderness Act. Campgrounds are built with supplies that are packed in by packhorse, and with natural materials. Occupational Health and Safety standards are always met during the work.
Albertans, international tourists, family groups, hikers, hunters, fishermen, outdoor enthusiasts, nature photographers, artists, guides, and outfitters frequent the campsites. Willmore Wilderness Foundation trail crews ran into many hikers, guides, hunters, and outfitters who were thankful for the work we did on the campgrounds. One hunter’s wife stated that she was very grateful for the toilet, which made her wilderness stay more comfortable. Two hikers were pleased with their stay at the campground as the benches, table, toilet, and fire ring made their stay more comfortable. Many horseback travellers are grateful for the hitching rails, corrals, benches, tables, fire rings and washstands.
We are restoring the historic campsites so that it will minimize random camping. We feel that the preservation of the Willmore Wilderness Park’s historic campsites is a critical management strategy.