Lake Diefenbaker, southern Saskatchewan’s largest lake and premier recreation area, boasts some of the most dramatic shorelines in the province. Ragged cliffs, rolling hills and big sandy beaches with shallow waters make it the perfect destination for your next stay and play vacation.
Camping, Glamping and more
Three provincial parks are located along the lake’s shores: Saskatchewan Landing, Douglas and Danielson, all with their own beaches, campgrounds and plenty of nearby amenities. Palliser Regional Park is another great choice for an afternoon at the lake. Park your RV, tent or enjoy a fully equipped camping experience in one of two Camp-Easy yurts at Douglas Provincial Park. Glamping Resorts Ltd. offers luxury safari tents at Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park. Some fixed-roof accommodations include Sarah’s Cove Condo Rentals at Harbour Inn in Elbow and Mainstay Inn at Riverhurst.
Like a Cowboy
Set in the Saskatchewan River Valley along the beautiful shores of Lake Diefenbaker, La Reata Ranch looks like it’s right out of a wild west movie. It’s an authentic family-run working cattle ranch where guests can experience the cowboy way-of-life. The daily rides lead through the open prairie landscape, over the rolling river hills with their countless canyons and over the gently sloping sandy beaches of Lake Diefenbaker. Those who need a break from riding, can relax by canoeing, fishing or swimming in the sparkling lake. The evenings are for gathering at the La Reata Saloon, roasting marshmallows over the campfire and stargazing.
On the water
Glide along the 800 km of shoreline as the wind catches your sail on Lake Diefenbaker. Living Sky Sailing School offers tours and excursions or sailing lessons. Launch your boat and spend the day on the lake. With wide-open water and secluded bays and coulees, it is the ideal spot for watersports enthusiasts.
Tee off!
In Elbow, hit some golf balls at Harbor Golf & RV Park, an 18-hole championship course situated on the bluffs overlooking the lake and marina. You can also enjoy scenic vistas and panoramic views while teeing off at Sask Landing Golf Resort and the desert-like, links-style Sage View Golf Course at Palliser Regional Park.
Reel one in
Head out for a day of fishing and reel in a record-breaking catch. Renowned for its trophy-sized rainbow trout, Lake Diefenbaker is also known for the diversity of species found in its waters, including walleye, northern pike, burbot, yellow perch, whitefish, and lake trout.
Did you know?
Lake Diefenbaker is a manmade wonder created by the construction of the Gardiner and Qu’Appelle Valley Dams in the late-1960s. Learn more at the Gardiner Dam Interpretive Centre, which is located in Danielson Provincial Park on Hwy 44. The centre features visual interpretive displays, souvenirs, tourist information, food service and a vintage film on the construction of the dam. Gardiner Dam is also a starting point for the 125-km Chief Whitecap Waterway (Trans Canada Trail) that takes visitors through the beautiful South Saskatchewan River valley to the city of Saskatoon.
Travel tip
If you are travelling from Lucky Lake on the west side of Lake Diefenbaker to Riverhurst/Palliser Regional Park on the east side, you (and your car) can hop on the seasonal Riverhurst Ferry. The ferry is toll-free and operates 24 hours a day.
Further information can be found at www.tourismsaskatchewan.com.