Riverbend Wetlands
Lakes in Alberta
Update September 2026 – One of the common observations offered by newcomers and visitor to Southern Alberta is that the area suffers from a lack of lakes. Certainly compared to Minnesota, the “land of 10,000 lakes” or their neighboring Canadian province of Manitoba, we have fewer lakes. For most, the attraction of lakes is the recreational opportunities inherent in large bodies of water.
Because of the smaller number of lakes, bodies of water that wouldn’t qualify to carry the designation elsewhere are lakes here. This might beg the question, what constitute a lake? A threshold of 2 acre surface area is promoted by some. While the state of Montana states, a body of water has to be a minimum of 20 acres to be called a lake. But please grant us some license, for you see, it’s really no different from use of the word “mountain” here versus elsewhere. With our majestic Rocky Mountains giving us our perspectives, we sometimes marvel at the hills in other regions that locals feel earn the moniker, “mountain.”
No Shortage of Surface Water
In spite of having fewer lakes, we don’t have a shortage of water. From rivers and streams to a variety of water bodies. Southern Alberta has a number of reservoirs created to collect water for irrigation. As agriculture was the primary purpose, recreational use was considered secondary.
Wetlands in Alberta
In addition to lakes and reservoirs we have wetlands, a critical component of the ecology of our region. It might surprise you to learn that 20 percent of the surface of Alberta is covered by wetlands. The two types of wetlands in Southern Alberta’s wetlands are “Shallow Open Water Ponds” and “Marshes.” Here at Riverbend Campground we are blessed to have both types of wetlands features. Our “lake” is a Shallow Open Water Pond located on the west half of the property. Our Marsh is located east of the main road just below the hill.
The fountain on the lake adds a visually pleasing feature while promoting a healthy aquatic ecosystem. The fountain provides aeration of the water. The primary benefits of aeration are an improved fish habitat, a reduction in algae growth, and decreased mosquito activity.
Wetland Habitat
Our wetlands provide ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Bird watchers can spot many fascinating species here. Click here for a list of birds observed at Riverbend, including notes on those that have nested on-site. Explore these areas by walking our Nature Trails, which wind throughout the campground. Some trails climb the hill to the road from t00he East End, while others follow the creeks.
We continually add new trails and upgrade existing ones. The wood mulch we spread creates a comfortable walking surface, enhances the scenery, controls weeds, and reduces soil erosion. A new trail begins behind the main west washroom, follows the creek east, and exits near the new tenting sites. Because it crosses rough terrain, please use caution. For more details about our Nature Trails, visit our information page here.
Exploring the trails is a very quiet and pleasant way to see wildlife and different species of trees and undergrowth. You will be treated to several wild edible berries If you catch the season right, Start by picking up a trail map at the office and begin your firsthand introduction to the Riverbend Wetlands.
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