Johnson’s Beach Campground near Ponoka is undergoing a series of upgrades as part of a revitalization effort led by Manager Jamie Grace.
The site, located between Bashaw and Ponoka on the south side of Red Deer Lake, has seen increased activity since Grace took over in the spring.
Grace has overseen improvements ranging from the cleaning of washrooms, the concession, and the main office to the addition of new recreation areas.
Campers now have access to facilities for badminton, volleyball, ladder golf, and bocce ball, alongside a refurbished playground.
“When I came in, I had a vision,” Grace said, noting that the campground has a history spanning about 40 years. Attendance has grown alongside the upgrades, with more visitors booking stays throughout the summer.
Owned by Ponoka County, Johnson’s Beach offers a mix of rental options. Campers can reserve sites for a single night, a weekend, or the full season. Larger parcels are also available for organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, and local businesses hosting group campouts.
The campground also maintains four sites for month-long rentals, giving campers flexibility depending on their needs.
Grace has expanded available options by developing additional sites in forested areas, offering both secluded and open settings.
The changes have drawn more long-term visitors. “At the start of next year, I should have 40,” Grace said, noting that seasonal renters grew from about six in previous years to 38 this past season.
The park currently operates from May 1 through Sept. 30, though Grace is considering extending the season. “I’m looking at doing an optional extension, because people have been asking if they can stay until the middle of October,” he said, as reported by Rimbey Review on September 18.
Events have also become a central part of the campground’s offerings. “When I took the job, it was about the challenge. I love camping myself,” Grace said.
On Canada Day, the park hosted a movie night featuring Jurassic Park. “I went and bought some costumes where I had three people come out as dinosaurs. The kids loved it!”
The following night, campers were treated to live music, and fireworks displays capped off both Canada Day and Labour Day weekends. Grace estimated that nearly 100 people attended the live music event.
Plans for future amenities include creating a small BMX area, building cabins for rent, and adding a splash park. Grace is also focused on upgrading electrical service to meet growing demand.
“We currently have 15 amps, and that works if you use power management,” he said. “We are upgrading any we can up to 20 amp.”
For more information, visit johnsonsbeach.ca.
