
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area
A versatile recreation area offering championship golf, summer water fun at Discovery Canyon, and winter cross-country skiing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for tubing and water play

River Bend Golf and Recreation Area
Best Time
Perfect for tubing and water play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile recreation area offering championship golf, summer water fun at Discovery Canyon, and winter cross-country skiing.
"Our favourite summer spot in Red Deer! Discovery Canyon is SO much fun for all ages."

Pack Your Own Snacks! 🍎
Concession prices can be a bit high, so bring your own picnic and snacks to save money.
Tube Rental Value 💰
Tube rentals are affordable for a full day of fun at Discovery Canyon. Consider bringing your own if you plan frequent visits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Discovery Canyon
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area
A summer paradise with a lazy river for tubing, a wading pool, and a themed playground. Perfect for family fun!

Championship Golf Course
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area
An immaculately maintained 18-hole course with perfect fairways and greens, offering a BC-like golfing experience.

Cross-Country Ski Trails
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area
Enjoy 15 km of groomed trails in winter, including 4 km of lighted paths for evening skiing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Fun at Discovery Canyon
Year-Round Recreation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Your Own Snacks! 🍎
Concession prices can be a bit high, so bring your own picnic and snacks to save money.
Tube Rental Value 💰
Tube rentals are affordable for a full day of fun at Discovery Canyon. Consider bringing your own if you plan frequent visits.
Golfers' Paradise ⛳
The 18-hole course is praised for its immaculate condition, comparable to BC courses. Great for all skill levels.
Winter Wonderland ❄️
Explore 15 km of groomed cross-country ski trails, with 4 km lit for evening adventures. Rentals available!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Your Own Snacks! 🍎
Concession prices can be a bit high, so bring your own picnic and snacks to save money.
Tube Rental Value 💰
Tube rentals are affordable for a full day of fun at Discovery Canyon. Consider bringing your own if you plan frequent visits.
Golfers' Paradise ⛳
The 18-hole course is praised for its immaculate condition, comparable to BC courses. Great for all skill levels.
Winter Wonderland ❄️
Explore 15 km of groomed cross-country ski trails, with 4 km lit for evening adventures. Rentals available!
Event Venue Recommendation 🎉
Highly recommended for weddings and events, with exceptional service and delicious customized menus.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area is a highly-rated destination, particularly praised for its summer family fun at Discovery Canyon and its well-maintained golf courses. Visitors love the affordability and natural beauty, though some note concession prices can be high. It's considered a gem for both recreation and events.
"Our favourite summer spot in Red Deer! Discovery Canyon is SO much fun for all ages, the kids love the swimming pond, lazy river and to play at the beach. The playground is super nice as well and there is so much grass to play all kinds of games.
The concession is a little expensive but the staff is always super friendly. And 7$ for a tube for a whole day is super reasonable. We, however, just buy a tube and bring it with us, as well as a picnic/some snacks. This place is SO much fun!"
Ramona Haase-Rüdebusch
"We recently had our wedding (outdoor ceremony & indoor reception) at River Bend and we could not have asked for a better experience! Ryan, the chef/event coordinator, was a dream to work with - he was a huge help throughout the planning process answering a million of our questions, and our customized menu that he created was incredible & delicious! If you’re considering having an event there of any kind, I would HIGHLY recommend doing so. Thank you RB crew!!!"
Victoria Steenwyk
"This place blew my expectations away. I traveled from Calgary to play with a buddy from Edmonton. I didn't know what to expect. This course is so immaculately taken care of. The fairways are cut to perfection and greens are smooth. This course reminded me of BC. They have a great 18 along with a pitch and put for the younger kids. Or a quick little outing for a double date. 2 practice greens and gorgeous driving range"
Sean Walters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area is located within the Waskasoo Park System in Red Deer, Alberta. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. The area is well-connected to other parts of the city via local roads.
While specific bus routes directly to the recreation area might be limited, Red Deer Transit serves the general Michener Hill area, which is nearby. It's advisable to check the current Red Deer Transit schedule for the most convenient options.
The park is quite extensive. For golf, follow signs to the clubhouse. For Discovery Canyon, head towards the river access points. For winter activities, trailheads are clearly marked.
Yes, Red Deer offers a range of hotels and motels. Many are located a short drive from River Bend, providing convenient options for visitors staying overnight.
Yes, there is parking available at various points within the River Bend Golf and Recreation Area, including near the golf course, Discovery Canyon, and trail access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there's a nominal fee for entry to Discovery Canyon, which includes tube rentals for the entire day. It's a very affordable option for a full day of family fun.
Discovery Canyon is a seasonal attraction, typically open during the summer months. It's best to check the official River Bend Golf and Recreation Area website or their social media for the most up-to-date operating hours and dates.
Green fees vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and whether you're playing the 18-hole course or the mini-links. It's recommended to check the River Bend Golf course website for current pricing and booking information.
Access to the cross-country ski trails is generally free, though there might be a small fee for equipment rentals if you don't bring your own.
Absolutely! River Bend has facilities for events and weddings, and reviews highly recommend their services, especially mentioning the chef/event coordinator. Contact them directly for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
River Bend offers a wide range of activities including championship golf, mini-links, a driving range, tubing and swimming at Discovery Canyon, and cross-country skiing in winter. There are also walking and snowshoeing opportunities.
Yes, Discovery Canyon is a huge hit with families, featuring a swimming pond, lazy river, and a great playground. The mini-links golf course is also suitable for younger children.
The Red Deer River valley is known for its wildlife. Visitors often spot various birds, and sometimes deer or other small mammals, especially during quieter times.
Yes, the Grill Restaurant & Patio is available at the golf course, offering dining options. For Discovery Canyon, packing your own food is recommended due to concession prices.
For Discovery Canyon, weekdays and early mornings are generally less crowded. For golf, booking tee times during off-peak hours or weekdays can offer a more relaxed experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Red Deer River valley offers scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The golf course itself is picturesque, and Discovery Canyon provides fun, candid shots of families enjoying the water.
Yes, the area is home to various wildlife. Be respectful and maintain a safe distance. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best for spotting animals.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's essential to check with the River Bend Golf and Recreation Area management or local aviation authorities for current drone policies before flying.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh, especially at Discovery Canyon.
Capture the unique tubing experience at Discovery Canyon, the well-manicured fairways of the golf course, and the serene river valley views, especially during the fall colors or winter snow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a quicker family activity, the Mini-Links golf course is a great option. In winter, the groomed cross-country ski trails are perfect for introducing kids to the sport, with rentals available. The park's natural setting also provides opportunities for simple nature walks and exploration.
⛳ Golf Enthusiasts
Beyond the main course, the driving range and practice greens are excellent for honing your skills. The Mini-Links course provides a fun, shorter option for a casual game or for those looking for a quick round. Booking tee times in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
❄️ Winter Sports Lovers
Ski rentals are available on-site, making it easy to try out the sport without a significant gear investment. Even if skiing isn't your preference, the park offers beautiful scenery for winter walks and snowshoeing, allowing you to appreciate the tranquility of the Red Deer River valley.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Discovery Canyon: A Summer Must-Do
While the concession is available, many visitors recommend bringing your own picnic and snacks to maximize value and enjoy a leisurely day by the water. The sandy beach area is also great for relaxing and playing games. It's consistently described as one of Red Deer's best-kept summer secrets, offering hours of entertainment without breaking the bank.
Key features include the lazy river for tubing, a wading pool for toddlers, a themed playground, and beach access. It's an ideal destination for a fun-filled, budget-friendly family outing during the warmer months.
Golfing at River Bend
Beyond the main course, River Bend also offers a Mini-Links course, which is great for families, beginners, or a quick, fun outing. There's also a spacious driving range and practice greens, providing ample opportunities to hone your skills. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting along the Red Deer River valley contribute to a memorable golfing day.
Golfing highlights include the pristine 18-hole championship course, the family-friendly Mini-Links, a well-equipped driving range, and beautiful river valley scenery. It's a top choice for golfers looking for a high-quality experience in Red Deer.
Winter Activities and Year-Round Beauty
Cross-country ski rentals are available, making it easy for families and individuals to try out the sport. The scenic beauty of the river valley provides a stunning backdrop for your winter adventures. Beyond skiing, the park is also a peaceful spot for off-season walks or snowshoeing, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural landscape throughout the year.
Winter offerings include 15 km of groomed cross-country ski trails, 4 km of lighted trails for evening skiing, and equipment rentals. The park's natural beauty makes it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit