MOONSHINE LAKE

Located 27 km west and 7 km north of Spirit River, Alberta, on Highway 49 is Moonshine Lake Provincial Park which opened on April 9, 1959. Spirit River is 72 km northwest of Grande Prairie.

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Moonshine Lake Provincial Park, Alberta was established in 1979 and covers an area of 847 hectares.
The campground is located on the north and northeast side of the lake, while the day-use area and group camping is located on the south side of the lake.

As early as 1910, this small lake was located on what was known as the Moonshine Trail. The lake was originally called Mirage Lake. Local folklore tells of two men, Jack Campbell and Harry Hanrahan, who while climbing the steep bank of the north shore of the lake in the 1920's, spilled their home-brewed moonshine. It has been known as Moonshine Lake ever since.

MOONSHINE LAKE - PARKS DAY July 16, 2011: Rain doesn't seem to keep away campers at Moonshine Lake who want to take advantage of one of the Peace Countries finest campgrounds. Many took part in the Park Day activities which happens once a year through-out Canada. View the video for more information. Includes interview with Officer Kirtley-Wark of Alberta Parks. View VIDEO> (2:15min) or View FLASH VIDEO>

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In 1998 Moonshine Lake Provincial Park was expanded to include Jack Bird Pond. This area was donated to the province by the estate of Jack Bird in 1978 and is located 1km east of the Moonshine Lake turnoff, and 3km north of Highway 49 on gravel road. Many species of birds can be seen here. It has two bird viewing platforms connected by an interpretative trail.