Blackstrap Provincial Park is nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan and offers a peaceful escape from the city life, just 53km south of Saskatoon. Originally known as a provincial recreational site, Blackstrap was established as a Provincial Park in 1968. Legend has it that the park’s name is derived from an incident involving the breaking of a barrel of blackstrap molasses during transport through the valley.
The park runs along the eastern shore of Blackstrap Lake. The man-made lake is fed by Saskatchewan’s largest man-made lake, Lake Diefenbaker. Created in 1967 as a water reservoir for agricultural, industrial, and recreational uses, today Blackstrap Lake is a hub for water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing. It even has an aquatic adventure park off the beach!
Within the park visitors can also enjoy hiking or biking around Mount Blackstrap, a man-made mountain that, considered more of a hill in other parts of the country, stands at just over 2,000 feet above sea level. Originally designed to host the 1971 Canada Winter Games, it continued to operate as a ski hill until it permanently closed due to declining ridership in 2008. There was a suspicious fire in September 2009, the provincial government announced that the remaining ski equipment at the hill would be dismantled and sold.
Over the last 10 years, the park has benefited from a combination of private and provincial funding to expand amenities, including a new marina, cabins, and 63 new camp sites. Beyond its natural beauty and recreational offerings, the park is also a great spot for camping. Blackstrap Provincial Park consists of three main campgrounds totalling over 150 campsites. Hazlenut Grove offers all-electric sites, half of which are along the lakeshore. Kevin Misfeldt Campground features a mix of powered and non-powered sites. Sunset Ridge consists of all full-service sites and overlooks the lake. To book your next camping trip at Blackstrap Provincial Park click here!
Blackstrap Glamping Resort is another option for accommodations within the park. They currently have four luxury domes. Each equipped with a kitchen space, full bathroom, loft for the kids, and a king-sized bed! To learn more, click here!
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Blackstrap Provincial Park promises an unforgettable experience!
