Scenic Views · Fishing · Camping & Hiking · Alberta
Chip Lake
A big, shallow lake near Wildwood in west-central Alberta, ringed by forest and farmland, known for pike and ice fishing. Weeds and low water make it better for small boats than swimming.
What visitors say
Chip Lake is a wide, shallow lake about halfway between Edmonton and Edson, near the hamlet of Wildwood. Trees and farmland run right to the shore, and visitors describe the setting as quiet, a bit remote and pretty in a low-key way. Birders and plant lovers find plenty to look at along the weedy edges.
Most people come to fish. The lake is open to angling under Alberta's sportfishing regulations, which list northern pike and burbot here, and it has a seasonal spring closure, so check the current regulations before you go. Reviewers report fast action on pike, often on the small side, with the inflow and outflow of the Lobstick River a popular spot. It's a well-liked ice fishing lake, and some visitors recommend it for taking kids or newcomers out in winter.
Chip Lake Park, a small campground and day-use area near Wildwood, sits on the lake with a boat launch and a fish cleaning stand. Campers describe the sites as secluded and reasonably priced, and the stores in Wildwood are handy for supplies.
The lake itself has limits. Water is very shallow in places, weeds get thick in summer, and a few anglers found the launch and dock awkward. It isn't a swimming lake and there's no real beach. A canoe, kayak or small boat suits it better than anything large.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 81 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.