Hidden Gems of the Central Peace

On Friday, July 10^th, the MD Transit Bus will be heading west to Cotillion Park Campground and Moonshine Lake where rolling hills meet vast forests and quiet waters, two of Saddle Hills County’s most treasured destinations offer visitors a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the beauty of the North. Cotillion Campground and Moonshine Lake are more than just recreational sites—they are places where memories are made and the natural landscape tells stories that span generations.

 

Cotillion Campground: A Riverside Escape

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Peace River, Cotillion Campground is one of Saddle Hills County’s most scenic treasures. The spectacular river valley views are said to be the very same that impressed explorer Alexander Mackenzie in 1793 as he travelled west in search of a route to the Pacific Ocean.

Today, visitors to Cotillion are greeted by rugged sandstone cliffs, towering forests, and abundant wildlife. Moose, deer, eagles, beavers, and even the occasional bear can often be spotted in the area, reminding guests that they are truly immersed in the wilderness.

The campground itself offers a peaceful retreat with overnight campsites, powered sites, picnic tables, fire pits, and modern amenities. Adventure seekers can explore the extensive trail network by foot or ATV, launch a boat on the Peace River, cast a fishing line from the riverbank, or venture out to discover the park’s secluded waterfall hidden among the trees.

Cotillion is also a gathering place for the community. Each summer, the campground hosts the popular Music in the Park event, bringing residents and visitors together to enjoy live entertainment against the stunning backdrop of the Peace River Valley.

 

Moonshine Lake: One of the Jewels of Saddle Hills County

A short drive north of Highway 49 lies Moonshine Lake, a destination beloved by locals and visitors alike for its year-round recreation and breathtaking natural beauty.

The lake itself has an intriguing history. Originally known as Mirage Lake, local folklore suggests that its current name dates back to the 1920s when two men, Jack Campbell and Harry Hanrahan, accidentally spilled their homemade moonshine while climbing the lake’s steep northern bank. The name “Moonshine Lake” has endured ever since, adding a touch of mystery and legend to this peaceful setting.

Established as a provincial park in 1979, Moonshine Lake Provincial Park has grown into one of the region’s premier outdoor destinations. Surrounded by boreal mixed-wood forests, the park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, birdwatching, and camping.

The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a favourite destination for anglers in both summer and winter. Families enjoy the sandy beach, playgrounds, and scenic trails, while winter visitors can often be found ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing through the snow-covered landscape. Nearby Jack Bird Pond provides an additional opportunity for wildlife viewing and peaceful walks.

In a world that often moves too quickly, Cotillion Campground and Moonshine Lake offer something increasingly rare: the opportunity to unplug, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.

Whether it’s watching the sun set over the Peace River, hearing the call of loons across Moonshine Lake, or gathering around a campfire with family and friends, these destinations remind us why the wilderness of the Central Peace is so special.

For residents and travellers alike, Cotillion Campground and Moonshine Lake are not simply places on a map—they are experiences waiting to be discovered and cherished for generations to come.