There are multiple lakes named Birch Lake in Alberta, and paddlers should confirm which one they intend to visit before planning a trip. The information below pertains primarily to the Birch Lake located in the Sundre District (Clearwater County area, near Rocky Mountain House), which is accessible via Crown land.

This lake prohibits gas-powered motors, making it suitable only for non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. There is no formal boat launch; paddlers must carry their watercraft to the shoreline and hand-launch directly from shore. Overnight camping is not permitted at this location.

A separate Birch Lake exists near Innisfree, Alberta, approximately 144 km east of Edmonton along Highway 16. This lake also prohibits motorized boats and is suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. It is associated with the Birch Lake Campground and Recreation Park, which offers 28 campsites including powered and non-powered options, a private group camping area with a heated building, and various recreational facilities. A sani-dump is located nearby across the Yellowhead Highway. The campground is wheelchair accessible.

The Innisfree-area Birch Lake includes an island that paddlers can explore. The surrounding area features birdsong and natural forest, and the no-motor policy contributes to a quiet on-water experience. Wapasu Lake, located a few kilometers away, offers power boating and beach activities for those seeking additional options.

The Crown land Birch Lake near Rocky Mountain House is surrounded by natural forest and Crown land. The boat launch area on the north end of that lake is accessed via a path from a parking area, with a locked metal gate preventing vehicle access to the water's edge. The path can become slippery when wet. OHV traffic has been noted in the surrounding area on weekends.