A Perfect Summer Getaway at Duck Mountain Provincial Park

Resting along Saskatchewan's eastern border, Duck Mountain Provincial Park feels like a world away from prairie highways. Dense forests, sparkling lakes, and wildlife-rich wetlands create a calm escape. Whether you're hiking to a scenic lookout, paddling across Madge Lake, or practicing your swing on the golf course, this park offers adventure for everyone.

Getting There

Duck Mountain Provincial Park is about 290 kilometres northeast of Regina and roughly 375 kilometres east of Saskatoon. As travellers leave the open prairie, the landscape changes into thick boreal forests and grassy hills.

Highways leading to the park are paved, with well-maintained internal roads connecting campgrounds and beaches. Some trailheads may involve short gravel stretches. A Park Entry Permit is required and can be purchased in advance or upon arrival.

Season
  • Summer
Time needed
  • Multi-day
Location
  • Duck Mountain Provincial Park

Morning

Ease into a relaxing morning at Duck Mountain with fresh air, forest views and time on the water.

  • Start at Madge Lake, the heart of the park, for a quiet beach walk or refreshing swim. The soft sand and cool water will be sure to wake up any sleepy campers.
  • If you are more into birdwatching try the Woodland Nature Trail which is a two-kilometre loop located near Pickerel Point Campground. Find shaded forest paths, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to spot wildlife. The park also features a three-mile paved trail connecting the Recreation Hall to the Pickerel Point Campground, for people of all ages and abilities.
  • Finish your morning with a tee time at the Madge Lake Golf Course for a round surrounded by forested fairways.

Pro Tip: Before you arrive, check for park events. If your pup is with you, take them to the Dog-Friendly Beach area and Off Leash Dog Park.

Midday

Midday is all about relaxing, refuelling, and enjoying lakeside views before choosing your next stop for adventure.

  • Visit the park's seasonal dining options:
    • Duck Mountain Lodge
    • The Grill at Madge Lake Golf Resort
  • For a quick grab-and-go snack, stop into Pickerel Point Concessions.
  • Head to Sweet Spot Mini Golf and Ice Cream for a fun and competitive round of mini golf. Afterwards, get a scoop of ice cream or a slice of pizza and head to the lake! Follow their social channels to see any upcoming special events.
  • Pack a picnic and settle in the day-use area in Jackfish Lake or Batka Lake which features picnic tables and beach access.
  • Visitors should plan ahead and bring snacks and water, as amenities are limited.

Pro Tip: Pack insect repellent as forested areas can attract mosquitoes, especially in early summer. A few quick sprays and you're good to go!

Afternoon

Afternoons invite more exploration and one last dose of fresh forest air before you wind down for the evening.

  • Grab your bike and cycle along park roads or designated trails such as Pelly Point. Make sure to keep your eye out for interesting wildlife.
  • Keep your heart pounding as you climb, jump, and run along Sask Aquatic Adventure's floating waterpark!
  • Or challenge friends to an 18-hole disc golf game on the Duck Mountain Disc Golf Course.

For supper, head back to one of the many delectable restaurants to try something new or prepare something delicious at your campsite. The golden-hour glow over the hills makes a memorable ending to the day.

Make It an Overnight Trip

Duck Mountain has so much to enjoy that it makes a great overnight getaway. What you miss on day one can fit into day two’s adventures.

The park features multiple campgrounds offering electric, non-electric, accessible, full service, and group sites perfect for sitting under the stars and laughing around the bonfire.

Visitors looking for a bit more comfort can book a fun Camp-Easy yurt experience or stay at one of the nearby accommodations.

What's Nearby

While exploring the region, visitors can extend their trip by heading to Good Spirit Lake Provincial Park, which is less than 100 kilometres southwest of Duck Mountain. Here, visitors can relax on purple sand beaches and splash around in the clear lake.

Located 13 km west of Kamsack on Hwy 5 (25 minutes from Duck Mountain), the community of Veregin is home to the National Doukhobor Heritage Village. In the late 1890s, Doukhobor immigrants arrived in the area and started establishing villages, but Veregin wasn't a typical Doukhobor community. It was a creation of the railroad with two rows of structures laid out along a single street. Extend your trip and check out this Provincial Heritage Building and property.

Good to Know

Maximize your trip with a little planning. Use these pro tips:

  • Purchase a Park Entry Permit in advance.
  • Bring groceries and essentials, as services are limited.
  • Borrow a free Discovery Pack from the Visitor Centre. Designed for families and visitors of all ages, Discovery Packs are a fun and engaging way to play, learn and interact with the natural environment. This year's new and exciting themes include:
    • Butterflies and Blooms
    • Cosmic Club
    • Creatures of the Past
    • Fungi Friends
    • Junior Ecologist: Forest Exploration
  • Recreation Packs are also free to borrow that are focused on outdoor activities and sports. Borrow a Disc Golf, Birding, Beach Adventure or Campsite Games Rec Pack from the Visitor Centre.