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Your new seasonal digital source for news, events, announcements, community highlights, and everything happening across the Lake Diefenbaker region!
Brought to you by Lake Diefenbaker Tourism
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Spring Awakens at Lake Diefenbaker
As winter loosens its grip, Lake Diefenbaker begins to stir back to life.
The ice slowly pulls away from the shoreline, revealing open water that sparkles under longer, warmer days. Fresh air carries the sounds of returning birds, and the quiet of winter is replaced with the energy of a new season. Along the hillsides and coulees, the first signs of spring appear, soft purple crocuses pushing through the earth, reminding us that brighter days are here.
Wildlife is on the move, the landscape is waking up, and there’s a feeling you can’t quite describe… only experience.
Spring at Lake Diefenbaker is a time of renewal, peaceful, beautiful, and full of possibility.
Start planning your first visit of the season and come experience the lake as it comes back to life!
In the Lake Diefenbaker area, prairie crocuses (also called pasqueflowers) typically bloom around early–mid April, with peak blooms shortly after.
They’re usually one of the very first flowers to appear often before everything else is green, which makes them such a special sign that spring has truly arrived!
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| History of Lake Diefenbaker | |
Lake Diefenbaker Tourism Reconciliation Statement
Lake Diefenbaker Tourism respectfully acknowledges that the lands and waters we promote and enjoy are located on the traditional territories of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Lakota, Nakoda, and the Métis Nation, within the homelands protected by Treaty 4 and Treaty 6.
Long before Lake Diefenbaker existed, these river valley lands supported thriving Indigenous Nations whose relationships to this place, through language, culture, stewardship, and knowledge continue today.
We recognize that the creation of Lake Diefenbaker, through the damming of the South Saskatchewan River, led to the displacement of Indigenous communities, the loss of important cultural and wintering sites, and the disruption of traditional practices. We acknowledge these harms and the continued impacts of colonial policies across the region.
We honour Indigenous sovereignty and the ongoing Treaty responsibilities that guide our work. As an organization committed to learning and meaningful action as we build respectful relationships, support Indigenous-led tourism, and share accurate history of this land and its original caretakers.
Reconciliation is ongoing, and we invite our partners, visitors, and community members to learn alongside us honouring the stories, cultures, and enduring presence of Indigenous peoples around Lake Diefenbaker.
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River Crossings
History Stories of Lake Diefenbaker written by Joan Soggie
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First there was the river. Then there was the lake. But all throughout the South Saskatchewan River’s long history, people have had to find ways of getting across it.
In 1800, Peter Fidler, leading a contingent of traders to establish a new trading post deep in buffalo country, paddled upstream from Cumberland House through the region now covered by Lake Diefenbaker. He called the south branch of the Saskatchewan the “Bad River” because of its erratic currents and numerous sandbars. By 1857, the Palliser expedition wisely chose to travel overland across the prairie. When they followed the Qu’Appelle to the elbow of the South Saskatchewan, Palliser found that “crossing the river was a problem. The stream was wide and deep with a sand-bar midway across.” They converted one wagon into a skiff and attempted to ferry themselves and their gear across. They eventually succeeded in crossing but lost one wagon in twenty feet of water.
On the other hand, winter crossing on the ice was relatively uncomplicated. From contemporary accounts it seems that the tag-end of winter, just before spring breakup, was sometimes the season for warfare. In March 1866, a raiding party of Blackfoot came up Snakebite Coulee and crossed on the ice to attack what seemed a small camp of Assiniboine. It turned out to be a well-armed encampment of Cree and Assiniboine. The resulting slaughter left a trail of bones visible for decades later.
Crossing the river had its perils for homesteaders as well.
Pearl Danroth wrote in Pioneer Trails to Demaine, “The South Saskatchewan River was the worst obstacle for the homesteader in the early days.”
“With the swift current and shifting sandbars, the river was dangerous at the best of times but freeze up and spring break up we dreaded the most. Men and women took unbelievable chances crossing the river. There were many accidents and some drownings. Just going up and down the winding trails through the steep river hills was risky.”
Also in Pioneer Trails to Demaine, a story of “Crossing at Elbow” was told by Ernest Johnson:
“On one early spring trip to Elbow (from their homestead near Demaine), the ice on the river was already honeycombed; we had to cross it with a team and sleigh. My mother and I took our chances. It was with determination, and the lash of the harness reins on the rear of the horses that we made it back across. The speed of the sleigh prevented it from breaking through the rotten ice. Water was coming up all over as we crossed the river. It seemed so much wider that day! Mother was saying her prayers I know! It was either go over then, or stay until the ice went out, and the ferry was in; maybe three weeks. Then the snow would be gone, and our sleigh would have to grow wheels before we could reach home!”
Pearl Danroth added, “everyone welcomed the ferries when they were installed by the Saskatchewan highways department and the municipal Road assistance branch.”
“Elbow ferry was installed and began crossing in 1905. But the next year, May 6, 1906, the cable broke and the ferry was inoperative for six weeks. Once the ferry was running again, there were lineups a mile long from the top of the hill and tents were pitched for overnighters. Some waited from daybreak until noon to cross. Others took all day and then had to pitch their tents on the west side for the night.”
There was a lot of traffic across the Elbow Ferry in those early days as the trading area for this small community expanded to homesteaders on both sides of the river. The pioneer hamlet of Riverview (three businesses and a post office) morphed into the village of Elbow in 1908 with the coming of the railroad.
The Elbow Ferry went the way of the dodo in 1926 with the opening of the double decker Elbow-Dunblane CNR bridge a few miles from Elbow.
Other ferries crossed the portion of the river that is now Lake Diefenbaker.
Log Valley Ferry (1908-1918) linked homesteaders with the CPR mainline to the south.
Billings Ferry (1908-present) was officially renamed Riverhurst Ferry in 1950. In 1967, after the filling of Lake Diefenbaker, the new Riverhurst Ferry was opened.
Herbert Ferry (1910-1965) gave residents of Beechy Demaine area access to Herbert. Jake F. Harder was ferry operator from 1939-1965.
Belhumeurs Ferry (1917-1948) next to the Belhumeur Ranch provided access to the towns of Gilroy and Riverhurst. In 1938 with the construction of Highway 42 the Billings-Riverhurst ferry became the preferred crossing and the Belhumeur Ferry closed ten years later.
Riverhurst Ferry, linking Highway 19 with Highway 42, now serves as the only 24-hour ferry service in Saskatchewan … when it is in operation. It is designed to operate from the time the lake opens in mid-May until freeze-up in the fall. It carries about 30,000 vehicles every year and has been a major crossing since the Elbow Bridge was dismantled in 1964.
The bridges at each end of the lake, Sask Landing and Gardiner Dam, provide year-round access. The first Sask Landing Bridge opened June 20, 1951, and was destroyed by ice April 7, 1952. The replacement bridge, in operation by July 10, 1953, was modified to accommodate the rising waters of Lake Diefenbaker and is still in operation today.
But come winter, there are still some who prefer to use the ice crossings rather than drive around by Gardiner Dam or Sask Landing.
References:
1 .” (page 72, the Palliser Expedition by Irene M. Spry)
2 (Elbow Homestead Days 1898-1910)
3 “Pioneer Trails” to Demaine pages 53-55
| | Elbow Ferry Photo Courtesy of Donna Daniluk, Backhome Bakery, Elbow SK |
| New feature of hidden gems every edition! | | |
Quiet Beaches
One of the best things about Lake Diefenbaker is that there are so many quiet places to discover along the shoreline. Beyond the main beaches and busy camping areas, there are countless small stretches of sand, quiet bays, and peaceful spots tucked all around the lake that feel like hidden gems.
With nearly 800 kilometres of shoreline, part of the fun is simply exploring. Sometimes the best lake days happen at the places you stumble across by accident, a quiet beach at the end of a gravel road, a calm shoreline for skipping rocks, or a peaceful place to sit and watch the sunset with hardly anyone else around.
Whether you’re looking for a place to launch a kayak, have a picnic, take photos, or just enjoy some quiet time by the water, there is always another beautiful corner of Lake Diefenbaker waiting to be found.
As more people continue to discover the lake each year, we encourage everyone to help keep these special places clean and beautiful by respecting private property, packing out garbage, and leaving the shoreline better than they found it.
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TOP 6 SPRING ACTIVITIES
AROUND LAKE DIEFENBAKER
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Take a Shoreline Walk
As the ice pulls back and the lake opens up, the shoreline becomes one of the most peaceful places to explore.
Take a slow walk along the water’s edge, listen to the waves, and enjoy the fresh spring air.
Access beautiful shoreline areas near Outlook & District Regional Park or venture toward quieter stretches near Coyote Springs Campground for a more secluded experience.
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Bird Watching
Lake Diefenbaker is a hidden gem for spring birdwatching. Its location along major migration routes, combined with a mix of open water, shoreline, wetlands, and prairie hills, creates the perfect habitat for a wide variety of species. As the ice melts, birds like pelicans, geese, ducks, and even eagles return to rest and feed.
Bring binoculars and find a quiet spot, or use apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird to see and identify what’s being spotted around the lake in real time.
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Explore Local Shops
After a morning outdoors, take time to explore the unique shops and stops around the lake communities.
Grab a coffee at Prairie Bean Roastery 219 Ltd., browse local finds at Jacqy Jayes Boutique & Espresso Bar, or stop in for essentials and hidden gems at Triple MMM General Store or Kens Lumber Home Hardware.
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Sunset Photography
Spring sunsets at Lake Diefenbaker are something special.
With wide open skies and reflections off the water, every evening offers a new colour palette.
Capture stunning views near Harbor Marina or along the shoreline at Sunset Beach - Prairie's Edge Development Corp or The Bays on Diefenbaker for that perfect golden-hour shot.
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Take a Scenic Drive
Take the long way around the lake and discover just how much there is to see.
Rolling hills, water views, and charming communities make every drive an experience.
Plan your route using the scenic drive map on our website and be sure to pass through welcoming stops like Village of Elbow and Village of Lucky Lake along the way.
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Enjoy a Spring Campfire
Cool spring evenings at Lake Diefenbaker are made for a classic campfire weiner roast.
As the sun sets and the air turns crisp, gather around the fire, roast your supper, and unwind by the lake.
Make a night of it by booking a stay at Crooked River Retreat, Wee All Stay, or Coyote Springs Campground, the perfect spots to relax and enjoy the full experience.
| | | Which Spring activity is your favourite on Lake Diefenbaker? | | | | |
Spring around Lake Diefenbaker brings warmer weather, open water and the return of camping, boating, fishing, and road trips around the lake region. While it’s an exciting time of year, spring conditions can still change quickly and it’s important to stay prepared while enjoying the outdoors.
Whether you’re heading out on the water, exploring beaches and trails, camping, or travelling around the lake, always check weather conditions before heading out, dress for changing temperatures, and let someone know your plans.
Cold water temperatures, strong winds, muddy roads, and dry grass conditions can all create seasonal safety concerns in the spring. Be sure to pack essentials like extra clothing, sunscreen, water, lifejackets, bug spray, and emergency supplies for both your vehicle and outdoor activities.
A little preparation goes a long way in helping everyone enjoy a safe and memorable spring season around Lake Diefenbaker.
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WEATHER
Spring weather around Lake Diefenbaker can change quickly with strong winds, rain, and sudden temperature drops. Check forecasts and road conditions before travelling and always be prepared for changing conditions.
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SUN PROTECTION
Even on cooler spring days, the sun reflecting off the water can cause sunburn and dehydration quickly. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and drink lots of water while outdoors.
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BOATING SAFETY
Spring boating conditions on Lake Diefenbaker can change quickly with cold water, strong winds, and rough waves. Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket, make sure required safety equipment is onboard, and let someone know your travel plans before heading out. Cold water temperatures can become dangerous very quickly, even on warm days. Ensure the boat operator has a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card before operating a boat.
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WATER SAFETY
Lake water remains very cold in the spring, even on warm days, and cold water shock can happen quickly if someone unexpectedly falls in. Always supervise children closely near water, docks, and shorelines, and ensure properly fitted lifejackets are worn during all water activities. Swimming lessons are an important way to help children build confidence and learn valuable water safety and rescue skills that could one day help save both themselves and others in an emergency.
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FIRE PREVENTION
Dry grass, warm temperatures, and strong prairie winds can quickly spread fires in the spring around Lake Diefenbaker. Always use designated fire pits, keep fires small and manageable, and never leave a campfire unattended. Before starting a fire, check with the campground, provincial park, local Rural Municipality, or nearby town for any fire bans or restrictions that may be in place. Always fully extinguish fires with water before leaving the area, even if the fire appears out.
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WOOD TICKS
Wood ticks become active in the spring throughout Saskatchewan, especially in grassy, brushy, and wooded areas. To reduce the risk of tick bites, wear long sleeves and pants when hiking, use insect repellent, and check yourself, children, and pets after spending time outdoors.
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SPRING FISHING ON LAKE DIEFENBAKER | |
Spring marks the return of open water fishing around Lake Diefenbaker and anglers from across Saskatchewan eagerly head back to the lake for another season on the water.
As temperatures warm and the ice disappears, the lake comes alive with opportunities to fish, explore, and enjoy some of Saskatchewan’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you’re fishing from shore, launching the boat for the first time of the season, or simply spending time outdoors with family and friends, spring fishing is one of the best ways to experience the lake.
Where to Fish in the Spring on Lake Diefenbaker
Many anglers look for areas with:
- Boat launches and shoreline access points
- Warmer shallow bays where fish begin to feed
- Points, drop-offs, and moving water areas
- Access near communities, parks, and marinas
Spring weather and water conditions can change quickly, especially with wind, cold water, and rising water levels, so always check forecasts and local conditions before heading out.
Gear & Supplies to Bring
Spring fishing conditions on Lake Diefenbaker can change quickly, so being prepared helps make your trip safer and more enjoyable.
Recommended gear and supplies include:
- Properly fitted lifejackets
- Rain gear and waterproof clothing
- Warm layers for cool mornings and changing weather
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats
- Fishing rods, tackle, bait, and extra line
- Boat safety equipment and emergency supplies
- Waterproof boots or extra dry clothing
- Snacks, drinking water, and a first aid kit
- Charged phone or communication device
- Bug spray for early tick and mosquito season
Strong winds, cold water, rain, and rapidly changing prairie weather are all common during spring around the lake, so it’s always best to prepare for a variety of conditions before heading out.
What You Can Catch
Lake Diefenbaker is known for the following species:
- Walleye
- Northern Pike
- Burbot (Ling)
- Rainbow Trout
- Perch
- White Fish
- Gold Eye
Each species has its own habits and preferred water depths, which is part of the excitement of fishing on such a diverse lake.
Spring Fishing Safety
Spring water temperatures remain extremely cold, even on warm days.
Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket while boating and use caution around shorelines, docks, and launching areas that may still be slippery or unstable after winter.
Ensure your boat has all required safety equipment onboard and that operators carry a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
Conservation Matters
Catch-and-release plays a big role in protecting Lake Diefenbaker’s fish populations especially large female species that are essential for future generations. Winter fishing can be tough on fish, so using proper techniques helps ensure they swim away strong.
Use barbless hooks, a rubber landing net, and tools like pliers or line cutters to reduce handling time. Land fish quickly, avoid fishing deeper than 9 metres (30 ft), and use artificial lures to prevent deep hooking. In winter, keep fish in the water as much as possible, handle them gently with wet hands, and limit air exposure, freezing temperatures can damage eyes, gills, and fins within seconds.
Support fish horizontally, never by the gills, and revive them slowly until they swim off on their own. If a fish is bleeding or cannot be revived, regulations require it to count toward your limit.
If you catch a tagged fish, report the tag number and details to help support ongoing research and monitoring on Lake Diefenbaker.
By practicing mindful catch-and-release, you’re helping protect the lake’s fishery, supporting healthy populations, and ensuring great fishing for years to come. Every careful release makes a difference!
Packaging your Fish for Transportation
In order to enforce limits, conservation officers must be able to count and measure your fish. Approved methods of transporting fish include: (1) whole (round); (2) headless dressed; and (3) fillets.
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Leave No Trace
Please help keep our lake clean:
- Pack out everything you bring
- Remove food scraps and fishing line
- Do not leave garbage, wood, or waste on the ice
A clean lake benefits wildlife, anglers, and future visitors.
Fishing Licenses
In Saskatchewan:
- Anyone under 16 or over 65 does not need a fishing license.
- Anyone 16 to 64 requires one.
Angling licenses are available:
If purchasing online, you will require a Hunting, Angling and Trapping License (HAL) system account. If you have an existing account, use your HAL number or your previously registered secondary identification number.
Season Dates
For Lake Diefenbaker:
- Fishing Season Opens May 5, 2026, and closes March 31, 2027.
- Irrigation bay of Coteau Bay closed to angling March 1st to May 14th.
- Stocked trout limit 1 on river section between Gardiner Dam and Enbridge pipeline crossing at 51°21’ 106°59’.
Regulations
- Ensure you have a valid Saskatchewan fishing licence before fishing.
- You must stay within 25 metres (27.3 yards) from your fishing line and be able to see it at all times.
- Ensure that you do not fish with more than one line in open waters.
- You must stop and submit to an inspection station when transporting watercraft.
- It is illegal to:
- Collect crayfish for any purpose, including consumption.
- Use more than four hooks on one line (a lure with a gang of hooks is considered one hook).
- Take fish by snaring or snagging.
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Limits
- Goldeye (includes mooneye) – Limit 8
- Lake Trout – Limit 3 (only one may exceed 65 cm)
- Northern Pike – Limit 5 (only one may exceed 75 cm)
- Stocked Trout (brook, brown, rainbow, tiger trout, splake) – Limit 5 total, all species combined
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Sturgeon – Limit 0 (Protected Species)
- Walleye (includes sauger & saugeye) – Limit 4 (only one may exceed 55 cm)
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Want a Hassle-Free Experience?
If you want to enjoy spring fishing on Lake Diefenbaker without worrying about bringing all the gear, planning locations, or navigating changing lake conditions, consider booking a guided fishing experience.
Local guides and outfitters can provide:
- Fishing gear and tackle
- Boats and safety equipment
- Knowledge of current fishing conditions
- Guidance on where fish are active
- Local expertise and lake access information
It’s a great way to experience Lake Diefenbaker, especially for first-time visitors or anyone looking to spend more time fishing and less time planning.
Look into our webpage directory for featured Lake Diefenbaker Tourism Business Partners who offer guided fishing experiences!
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Cooking Your Catch
Spring fishing on Lake Diefenbaker is not only about the experience on the water, it’s also about bringing home fresh fish to enjoy with family and friends.
Walleye and perch remain local favourites and are known for their mild flavour and flaky texture.
Popular ways to prepare fresh spring fish include:
- Light pan-frying
- Baking with lemon and herbs
- Fish tacos
- Breaded fillets with simple seasoning
- Grilling on the BBQ
One of the easiest and most popular ways to enjoy fresh Lake Diefenbaker fish is a simple pan fry after a day on the lake.
Pan Fried Fresh Walleye or Perch
Ingredients
- Fresh Lake Diefenbaker walleye or perch fillets
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2–3 tbsp seasoning mix
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- Canola oil for frying
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse fillets and pat dry with paper towel.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, seasoning, and pepper together.
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.
- Coat fish fillets lightly in the flour mixture.
- Place fish into the hot pan, ensuring pieces are not overcrowded.
- Fry for a few minutes per side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the pan and place on paper towel to remove excess oil.
Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, fries, or your favourite lake-side sides. Fresh fish after a day on Lake Diefenbaker is hard to beat.
| | | UPCOMING EVENTS AROUND THE LAKE | | Click on any of the events below for more details or use the orange button to view all upcoming events and submit your own local happenings around Lake Diefenbaker! | |
| Whitecap/ Dakota Dunes Area | | Riverhurst/ Central Butte Area | | LAKE DIEFENBAKER TOURISM BUSINESS PARTNERS | | We’re proud to work alongside these amazing business partners who help make the region so special. Visit our online business directory for more information on each partner and everything they have to offer! | | High Plaines Outfitting - 406-240-4078 | | |
Tom Agencies Ltd. - 306-859-2157
Riverbend Coop - 306-859-2136
Prairie Centre Credit Union - 306-859-2262
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Hitchcock's Hideaway - 306-573-4446
Lake Diefenbaker Fishing Charters - 306-222-3442
| | Terrace Dining Room - 306-867-2216 | | NipNap's Fishing Tackle - 306-587-7215 | | |
Galloway's Pharmacy Ltd. - 306-796-2040
Farmcraft Beverage Co. - 306-796-4509
| | Chaplin Nature Centre - 306-395-2770 | | Triple MMM General Store - 306-856-2020 | | |
Prosperity Credit Union - 306-846-2052
Tom Agencies Ltd. - 306-846-2177
| | Demaine Hotel - 306-858-2027 | |
Living Sky Sailing School - 306-260-0180
Village of Elbow - 306-260-0180
Coyote Springs Campground - 306-867-7199
Resort Village of Mistusinne - 306-854-4637
The Bays on Diefenbaker - 306-854-4637
Harbor Golf Resort - 306-854-2300
Harbor Marina - 306-854-2211
Sarah's Cove and Condo Rentals - 306-854-2003
Lakeside RV Trailer Park Ltd. - 306-221-0740
Lakeview Lodge Motel - 306-867-1202
Elbow Sunset Suites and RV Park - 306-854-2144
The Store by the Shore - 306-854-4630
Elbow Hotel - 306-854-2214
Fisher Outfitters - 306-220-3839
Sunset Beach - Prairie's Edge Development Corp - 306-231-4895
Douglas Provincial Park - 306-787-8676
Village of Loreburn - 306-644-2097
Boho Flower Co. - bohofarmco@gmail.com
Elbow Prosperity Credit Union - 306-854-2118
Loreburn Properity Credit Union - 306-644-2118
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Beachside Burgers - 306-221-8224
Danielson Provincial Park - 306-857-5510
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Sask Landing Golf Resort - 306-375-2233
Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park - 306-375-5525
Prosperity Credit Union - 306-375-2213
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The Trial Inn Motel - 306-400-6060
Ken's Lumber Sales Ltd. - 306-858-2233
Village of Lucky Lake - 306-858-2234
Meadow Bay Estates - info@meadowbay.ca
Wild West Steelhead - 306-858-2208
Wee All Stay - 306-313-5085
The Carousel Cookie Co. - 306-313-0228
B' N Bar Inc. - 306-858-2008
Tom Agencies Ltd. - 306-858-2622
Riverbank Cooperative Gas Bar - 306-858-2660
| Macrorie Gas Station - 306-243-2141 | Crosswinds Landscaping and Concrete Ltd. - 306-831-8110 | | |
Crooked River Retreat - 306-867-3326
Outlook Motor Hotel - 306-867-8636
RE/MAX Shoreline Reality - 306-867-8380
Outlook Vet Clinic - 306-867-8777
Outlook Medical Pharmacy Ltd. - 306-867-1202
Outlook AG Foods -306-867-9444
Outlook & District Regional Park - 306-867-8846
Town of Outlook - 306-867-8663
Prosperity Credit Union - 306-867-9914
Highland Outfitters and Lodge - 1-866-453-9270
Mid-Sask Community Futures - 306-867-9566
Outlook and District Heritage Museum - 306-867-8285
A&E Enterprises Limited - 306-867-9300
Prairie Bean Roastery 219 Ltd. - 306-361-2881
Jacq'y Jaye's Boutique & Espresso Bar - 306-867-8695
Outlook Riverview Golf Club - 306-867-8266
Riverbend Cooperative Food Store - 306-867-9995
Riverbend Cooperative Home & Agro - 306-867-9957
Riverbend Cooperative Gas Bar - 306-867-8687
Dynamic Autobody - 306-867-2266
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Don’t see your business featured here yet?
We’d love to partner with you!
Join the growing network of partners today and help showcase everything our region has to offer.
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A Free Spring Colouring Book Just for You!
Looking for something fun to do on a rainy spring day around Lake Diefenbaker?
Lake Diefenbaker Tourism has created a FREE printable spring colouring book filled with lake-themed fun, local scenery, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly activities perfect for families visiting the region this season.
✨ Click the button below to download your free copy!
Enjoy colouring pages inspired by camping, fishing, boating, wildlife, beaches, ferries, flowers, and spring adventures around beautiful Lake Diefenbaker.
It’s a fun way to keep kids entertained at the campground, cabin, camper, or at home during those cooler or rainy spring days.
Thank you for supporting our local communities, businesses, and everything that makes the Lake Diefenbaker region such a special place to explore. Happy colouring from all of us at Lake Diefenbaker Tourism!
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Tourism: An Investment in Community
Tourism Saskatchewan recently released an inspiring video titled Tourism: An Investment in Community (Shown Below), highlighting the powerful impact tourism has on communities across our province. We encourage you to take a moment to watch and share this message, it speaks directly to the heart of what makes the Lake Diefenbaker region so unique and full of potential.
Why Tourism Is Critical for the Lake Diefenbaker Region
Tourism isn’t just about visitors, it’s about community growth, local pride, and economic resilience. Around Lake Diefenbaker, tourism plays an especially important role, and its impact is felt in many ways:
Strengthening Small Communities
Many of our surrounding towns and rural communities depend on visitor spending to support:
- Local businesses
- Seasonal operations
- Community programs and events
- Recreation facilities and attractions
The dollars visitors bring in circulate through our region, helping keep businesses open, creating jobs, and supporting long-term sustainability.
Collaboration = Bigger Impact
Now more than ever, it’s essential for municipalities, businesses, and community groups around the lake to work together. By joining forces, we can:
- Share marketing and promotional expenses
- Increase visibility for ALL communities
- Build stronger regional experiences
- Offer more value to visitors
- Strengthen shoulder seasons and year-round visitation
Collectively, we can do far more than any one community or business can do alone.
Tourism as an Economic Driver
Tourism is one of the fastest ways to inject new money into local economies. Visitors:
- Spend at restaurants and stores
- Book accommodations
- Purchase fuel and supplies
- Explore attractions, parks, marinas, and shops
- Attend events, tournaments, and markets
Every visit creates a ripple effect that benefits our entire region.
Why It Matters Today More Than Ever
With many small communities facing challenges in population shifts, rising costs, staff shortages, reduced government funding, tourism is becoming a critical lifeline. Investing in tourism helps maintain vibrant communities where people want to live, work, raise families, and visit.
The Lake Diefenbaker region has tremendous untapped potential, and continued collaboration through partnerships, shared marketing, and regional leadership will help us grow not only tourism, but community strength.
Let’s Keep Building Lake Diefenbaker Region Together!
Thank you to our business partners and community leaders who continue to invest in the future of this region. By working together, we can build stronger experiences, attract more visitors, and ensure Lake Diefenbaker remains a thriving destination for generations to come.
If you’d like help promoting your business, listing events, or participating in regional initiatives, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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| PIRATE MAPS OF LAKE DIEFENBAKER | | |
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Lake Diefenbaker Tourism has modernized and recreated everyone’s favourite map of Lake Diefenbaker as local fundraising event for the continuation of Lake Diefenbaker Tourism Non-Profit Organization.
Lake Diefenbaker Tourism is offering Pirate Map orders for retail to all business partners!
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WHERE TO PURCHASE PIRATE MAPS:
- Danielson Provincial Park Visitor Centre (Gardiner Dam)
- Resort Village of Mistusinne
- Riverbend Co-op (Beechy Location)
- RE/MAX Shoreline Realty
- Outlook & District Heritage Museum
- Outlook Medical Pharmacy
- Hitchcock's Hideaway
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2026 PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Become a Business Partner with Lake Diefenbaker Tourism!
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Thank you for your interest in supporting and being part of Lake Diefenbaker Tourism.
Whether you’re a returning Business Partner or considering joining us for the first time, we’re excited to share updates as we prepare for an impactful 2026 tourism season. We’d love to work with you and help showcase your business across the Lake Diefenbaker region!
To plan effectively for the upcoming year for tradeshows, print materials, visitor guides, online content, social promotions, and regional campaigns, we’re aiming to confirm as many 2026 partnerships as possible by December.
Early sign-up ensures:
- Your business is featured from the very beginning of the season
- You’re included in all opportunities, not just those later in the year
- We can plan content around your specific offerings, deals, and events
Purchase Your 2026 Partnership Online
We’ve made the process easier than ever with a simple form and e-transfer payment option.
Use the link below to:
- Confirm your 2026 partnership
- Update your directory listing
- Upload new photos
- Add new deals or offerings
- Provide info for your 2026 social intro post
Updated 2026 Partnership Pricing
To support fair access and encourage more municipal participation, we’ve refreshed our pricing structure:
Business Partnerships
- Regular Business – $150
- Non-Profit – $50
Municipal Partnerships
- Small (<300 population) – $250
- Medium (300–500 population) – $500
- Large (500+ population) – $1,000
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We Appreciate You
Your collaboration helps us grow tourism across the region and bring more visitors and potential customers, into our communities. We truly value your support and look forward to another great year working together.
If you have questions, new ideas, or content you’d like us to share, we’d love to hear from you anytime
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