Visitors to Frog Lake could soon have more places to stay after the Municipal District of Bonnyville approved an expansion of Riel Beach Campground.

Council approved a development permit on May 26 that will allow the campground to add 10 new campsites and four cabins to the property, increasing accommodation options for visitors to one of the region’s popular summer destinations.

The campground, located along the north shore of Frog Lake, has operated seasonally since 2004. It currently features 36 powered campsites, six non-powered sites and a washroom and laundry facility added in 2016.

Senior Development Officer Kristy Poirier told council the owners are looking to expand to meet demand and continue growing the campground’s offerings.

“The applicant is applying for an intensive recreational use to expand their existing campground to add four cabins and 10 more campsites,” Poirier said.

Cabins already installed

Council heard that two of the proposed cabins had already been installed before a development permit application was submitted.

“The applicant added two of the four cabins prior to the application due to unfamiliarity with the process and would like to resolve this non-compliance and continue with additional development,” Poirier explained.

No concerns were received from neighbouring landowners following the notification process.

Emergency planning part of approval

As part of the application, the campground submitted an emergency response plan outlining procedures for wildfires and other emergencies.

The plan includes evacuation routes and identifies Frog Lake as a refuge area should the campground’s primary access road become inaccessible.

Council’s approval includes conditions related to fire safety, emergency vehicle access, lighting requirements, setbacks and compliance with FireSmart principles.

The campground must also maintain appropriate setbacks from the lake unless supported by further geotechnical analysis.

Tourism growth continues

The expansion comes as campgrounds, lakes and outdoor recreation destinations across the Lakeland region continue to attract visitors seeking local camping experiences.

Councillor Josh Crick introduced the motion to approve the application, which passed without opposition.

Once complete, the expansion will increase camping capacity at Riel Beach and provide additional cabin accommodations for visitors exploring the Frog Lake area.