Bear Lake
Bear Lake
- Boat Ramps
- 0
- Access Points
- 0
- Campsites
- 0
Bear Lake is a large, shallow lake located approximately 11 kilometres north of Grande Prairie, Alberta, near the community of Clairmont. The lake measures roughly four miles wide and six miles long, with a maximum depth of no more than 2 metres in most areas. Its shallow, expansive character makes it well suited for canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing, though paddlers should be aware that shallow water can be affected quickly by wind conditions across such a wide surface.
Access is provided from the north shore via Bear Lake Campground, which is managed by the County of Grande Prairie. A floating dock with a dedicated kayak launch is available for small hand-launched watercraft. To reach the site from Clairmont, travel north on Highway 2, turn west onto Township Road 730 at the top of Mercer Hill, then south onto Range Road 72. The final approach involves a rough gravel road to the parking area.
The campground operates from May 15 to October 15, which represents the primary paddling season. During this period, paddlers have access to a day-use shelter with a wood stove, outdoor restrooms, a picnic area, fire pits, and a playground. There is no potable water available, though a non-potable water tap is on site. Overnight camping is available at 11 powered sites (30-amp) and 5 unserviced individual sites, along with a group site.
There are no fish in the lake, so fishing is not a draw, but the lake is noted as a destination for birdwatching. The surrounding area includes a grass field and sandy beach near the boat launch. In winter, the lake freezes and is used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, but paddling is a warm-season activity here.
The County of Grande Prairie notes it is not responsible for any damages to watercraft, and visitors are expected to follow campground and parks regulations. No specific paddling restrictions apply beyond the use of small hand-launched watercraft from the dock.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Bear Lake. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Paddle smarter with real-time insights
Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.





Ab licenses and regulations
No licenses or regulations available for Ab.
Find Places to Paddle
Over 400,000 Places to Paddle
Every user gets free access to launch points, boat ramps, and public property parcels.
Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to paddle Bear Lake and check the forecast before you go.
No forecast data available.
Paddling near Bear Lake
Explore Ab waters
Top paddling waters
No waters available right now.
Popular Cities
Loading popular cities...
Explore near Bear Lake
More in Ab
Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.
Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.












