Camping and cottages have a long history in Sylvan Lake. They’re the foundation of the community and one of the things that make this lakeside destination so unique!
From Homesteads to Holidays
Arriving almost alongside early homesteaders, summer visitors quickly gave Sylvan Lake its reputation as a resort town. Drawn by the lake’s beauty and wooded surroundings, settlers chose the name “Sylvan Lake”, meaning “wooded,” to reflect the area’s lush trees.
By the early 1900s, Sylvan Lake was becoming a favorite summer getaway.
Cabins, Regattas, and Dance Halls
Families built homes and cabins along the shoreline, often commuting to Red Deer for work during the week and returning to the lake for weekends. As the visitor population grew, so did the attractions:
- Swimming regattas
- Seasonal businesses
- Boarding houses and lodges
- Famous dance halls that became social hubs
From Village to Town
- 1913 – Sylvan Lake officially became a village.
- 1946 – With a population of about 900, it earned town status.
Surrounding the lake are also four of Alberta’s 51 remaining summer villages, a designation for resort areas that remained active until 1995.
A Tradition That Lives On
Today, Sylvan Lake continues to be a favorite summer destination for visitors from Red Deer, Calgary, Edmonton, and beyond. People come for the lake, but stay for the community, the memories, and the vibrant energy that makes Sylvan Lake special.
Cottages and Campgrounds
Sylvan Lake’s cottages and campgrounds still offer that classic “cabin by the lake” feeling – a chance to connect with nature, spend time together, and embrace the simple joys of summer.
Sylvan Lake’s resort roots run deep, and every visit is a chance to experience the charm that started it all.