All information presented
should be verified by contacting Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump at the e-mail
address listed, or by phone at (403) 553-2731, or fax (403) 553-3141.
The Experience
This is an adventure for all ages, but may appeal most to families or recreational groups. Spend the night in canvas tipis and, upon request, be part of camp set-up to learn the traditional methods of assembling tipis, part of an authentic Blackfoot experience. Then, learn first-hand about "Living off the Land" from a knowledgeable Blackfoot guide. Enjoy storytelling around the campfire; hear native legends passed down for generations. Book ahead to ensure a satisfying Blackfoot camping experience in the shadow of the World Heritage Site at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.
Please note: In all our camping experiences, guides do not stay overnight with the campers or in the campsite. The campground is often one or two tipis occupied by the visitors, alone with their group. For your security, a campground attendant sleeps on site. Campers are sheltered, sleeping on air mattresses in sleeping bags, around the warmth of a woodburning stove inside the canvas tipi beneath the breathtaking beauty of a prairie night. For those looking for a peaceful solitary retreat from urban busy-ness, this roughing-it experience is unparalleled.
Equipment/Facilities:
- Canvas tipi, air mattress, water, wood stove set inside tipi and all split wood supplied for all camping experiences.
- You may bring your own camping gear (sleeping bags, air mattresses, camp chairs, water, food cooler) but tents are not allowed in our tipi campground.
- A limited supply of cleaned sleeping bags are available for your use, upon request.
- For a fully enjoyable experience, we recommend you bring warm clothing, flashlight, rain gear, day pack, sturdy walking shoes and water bottle.
- Security for valuables is available upon request at the Interpretive Centre.
- Guided tours of the interpretive centre with native interpreters are available for large groups or by special arrangement.
- Gift Shop with a wide selection of native crafts, jewelry, art, books and souvenirs.
- Ample parking for commercial tour buses and recreational vehicles.
- Both the consumer and the wholesaler can expect courteous, reliable and safe service.
- Smoking is not permitted within the tipi.
- Alcohol is not permitted on site.
- Sorry no pets allowed.
How to Find Us:
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is located 15 minutes north & west of Fort Macleod on secondary Highway #785 (paved). Approximately 1.5 hours from Calgary, heading south on route #2.
When to Visit:
Tipi Camp season runs from May 15 through September 15th. In the
event of poor weather, we reserve the right to provide an alternate program
schedule for the Buffalo Trails and Evening Star packages. We offer one-night and two-night package experiences, in a small tipi campground overlooking the Oldman
River Valley and adjacent to the buffalo jump.
Evening Star Tipi Camp Package
This tipi camping package will provide visitors with an authentic Blackfoot experience, including campfire story telling by a knowledgeable Blackfoot guide. There are opportunities to walk the trails and take part in interpretive activities that enhance your appreciation for this ancient culture. This package includes all meals..
Retail Price is $325.00 (GST included) flat rate per tipi for a group or family of 4 or less, for the complete overnight program.
- Includes 1 night in tipi plus evening meal, campfire program with native guide, breakfast next morning
- Check in by 2:00 pm and Check out by noon the following day
- Additional fee of $30.00 per person will be charged for every additional person, for groups of 5 or more, up to a maximum of 8 people per tipi
- There is no charge for children under 7 years of age
- Admission to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is included
Buffalo Trails Tipi Camp Package
This tipi camping package will provide visitors with an authentic Blackfoot experience, including campfire storytelling, games, guided walks, interpretive programs and accommodation in tipis. A knowledgeable Blackfoot guide will enhance your appreciation of this ancient culture. This special package includes all meals.
Retail Price is $750.00 (GST included) flat rate per tipi for a group or family of 4 or less, for the complete 2 overnights program.
- Includes 2 nights in tipi plus 2 evening meals, 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch plus all interpretive programs, walks, guide hikes and evening campfire programs
- Check in by 2:00 pm on day 1 and Check out by noon on day 3
- Additional fee of $60.00 per person will be charged for every additional person, for groups of 5 or more, up to a maximum of 8 people per tipi
- There is no charge for children under 7 years of age
- Admission to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is included
Making a Reservation for Tipi Camping
Method of Payment
Cash, Visa, Mastercard, certified cheque or travellers cheque.
Booking Policy
- Bookings should be made at least 45 days in advance to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (HSIBJ) office (403-553-2731)
- Confirmation forms are faxed to the client. Credit card numbers and details are to be filled out BY THE CLIENT and faxed back to the Site office (403-553-3141)
- To guarantee bookings, a 50% deposit must be received at time of booking. The remainder of the payment is due upon arrival at the Site
- A one sheet pdf file of Emergency Procedures is available for Risk Management planning. Click here.
- Tipi camping means minimal modern conveniences, sleeping on the ground (with an air mattress) and sleeping in an isolated setting. Fire restrictions may be in effect. In the event of poor weather, HSIBJ reserves the right to provide an alternate program schedule to outdoor activities.
Cancellation Policy
- If you cancel within the 14 days prior to arrival the 50% deposit is non-refundable.
- If the booking is cancelled before the 14 day period commences, a 10% administrative fee will be charged by HSIBJ. The balance of the deposit is then refunded.
Need more information? Want to book a package for Tipi Camping today?
Phone 403-553-2731 and ask for Tipi Camp Bookings or email info@head-smashed-in.com
