Our lake, our park and our community in Big Lakes County, Alberta.
Winagami Lake is a large, shallow, warm-water lake in northern Alberta's Big Lakes County, roughly north of McLennan and east of High Prairie in the Smoky River region. Ringed by boreal forest, cattail marsh and open prairie sky, it is known for its calm waters, abundant birdlife and spectacular sunsets that glow orange and crimson across the surface each evening.
Because the lake is shallow, the water warms nicely through the summer — making it a comfortable spot for swimming, paddling and pleasure boating. The surrounding wetlands are a rich habitat that draws ducks, geese, pelicans, grebes and many songbirds, giving Winagami a well-earned reputation as a birdwatcher's lake.
Adjacent to the cottage community, Winagami Lake Provincial Park protects part of the shoreline and provides year-round recreation. Visitors enjoy:
Cottagers and their guests are welcome to enjoy these park amenities. For official park, waste, septic and contact details, see the WLCOA Info Sheet (May 2026).
Boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming and summer fishing for northern pike, walleye and perch.
Winagami is a popular winter destination for ice fishing, with walleye a favourite catch.
Hiking, birdwatching and wildlife photography across the surrounding boreal landscape.
The Winagami Lake Cottage Owners Association (WLCOA) brings cottage owners together to share information, organize community events, and represent owners' interests with the county, the provincial park and local service providers. Membership is $25 per cabin annually, and all owners are encouraged to join and keep their contact information up to date.
Our biggest gathering of the year is the Annual General Meeting, held in spring and followed by a friendly hot dog roast — a great chance to meet your neighbours and hear what's happening around the lake.
