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Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area wilderness guide
Conservation Area · SK

Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area is a protected area in Saskatchewan dedicated to preserving natural prairie grasslands and supporting a diverse range of wildlife, including a herd of bison.

Conservation Area13,088

Designation

Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

13,088

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area is a protected area in Saskatchewan dedicated to preserving natural prairie grasslands and supporting a diverse range of wildlife, including a herd of bison.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area is a critical habitat located in southwestern Saskatchewan. This area is renowned for its expansive rolling plains that foster prairie grassland ecosystems. The conservation area serves as both a refuge for native species and a testament to the region's natural history. Perhaps one of the most captivating sights is the herd of bison, which roam freely and are managed to help restore this quintessential part of the prairie landscape. The land is steeped in Indigenous history, with its name derived from a prominent mound associated with local legend. Managed by the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the area provides vital ground for research in sustainable land management and biodiversity. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the site's open skies and opportunities for wildlife viewing, birding, and photography. The preservation of such areas is critical to maintaining the ecological integrity of the region, offering visitors a chance to experience the prairie's heartbreaking beauty and delicate balance.

Field Guide · Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Mystical Badlands of Writing-on-Stone★ 8.7⌖ 91 miHiking
Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Mystical Badlands of Writing-on-Stone

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park features mystical hoodoo formations and ancient petroglyphs. Explore the Hoodoo Trail or enjoy paddling. It's ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, offering serene views year-round.

Discover the Upper Missouri River Breaks★ 8.5⌖ 106 miPaddling
Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Discover the Upper Missouri River Breaks

Explore the Upper Missouri River Breaks, featuring deep canyons and rugged cliffs. Ideal for paddling and wildlife watching. Accessible by boat; best visited in spring or fall. Quiet and remote, it's perfect for adventure seekers.

Earth's Time Capsule: Dinosaur Provincial Park★ 9.4⌖ 132 miHiking
Dinosaur Provincial Park

Earth's Time Capsule: Dinosaur Provincial Park

Explore one of the richest dinosaur fossil sites in a unique landscape at Dinosaur Provincial Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 2 hours from Calgary. Discover various trails, join a guided tour, or enjoy panoramic vistas in this historically significant area.

Majestic Waters of Big Falls, Montana★ 8.5⌖ 137 miHiking
Big Falls

Majestic Waters of Big Falls, Montana

Explore Big Falls near Great Falls, Montana. Popular for hiking and fishing, this scenic waterfall offers a peaceful retreat. Best visited in spring or fall for pleasant weather. Suitable for photographers and nature lovers.

Waterfall Wonder at Rainbow Falls★ 8.8⌖ 142 miSightseeing
Rainbow Falls

Waterfall Wonder at Rainbow Falls

Experience the stunning Rainbow Falls near Great Falls, MT, part of the historic series of Great Falls on the Missouri River. Ideal for photography and nature activities, this spot offers amazing views and a peaceful environment. Best to visit in spring and fall.

SightseeingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bison viewing in natural prairie settings✦ Opportunities for birding and spotting diverse wildlife✦ Expansive views of the prairie landscape under vast skies✦ Interactive educational programs about sustainable practices
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Open access; no permits required but donations welcomed

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Robsart
⌖ 16.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Robsart, Saskatchewan

Quiet rural town offering access to Saskatchewan's wide open prairie landscapes and nearby natural areas for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and simplicity.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Eastend
⌖ 39.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eastend, Saskatchewan

A gateway to rugged badlands landscapes offering unique fossil hunting, hiking, and outdoor adventures in southwestern Saskatchewan.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Maple Creek
⌖ 43.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maple Creek, Saskatchewan

A cozy prairie town with a gateway to the sweeping landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Cypress Hills.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Manyberries
⌖ 49.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Manyberries, Alberta

A quiet prairie town offering access to unique badlands landscapes and wide open skies, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and rugged outdoor experiences.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Havre
⌖ 50.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Havre, Montana

A gateway community on the northern plains offering access to wide open spaces, river recreation, and nearby forested foothills with a mix of rugged and gentle outdoor settings.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Chinook
⌖ 51.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chinook, Montana

A quiet agricultural town on Montana's Hi-Line offering a peaceful gateway to open plains and nearby river and trail adventures.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Old Man on His Back Prairie and Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

19' Sea RayBigfork, Montana · 137.80 mi away
All Adventures· Blue Cat Boat Rentals - Montana

19' Sea Ray

Discover the thrill of exploring Flathead Lake with a private 19' Sea Ray boat rental in Bigfork. Perfect for relaxing, water sports, and scenic cruising, this experience promises unforgettable moments amidst Montana's stunning landscapes.

2–4 hours

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Outdoor Adventure: Good Trip Adventures - Full Day Hike in Arches NPBelgrade, Montana · 180.16 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Good Trip Adventures - Southwest

Outdoor Adventure: Good Trip Adventures - Full Day Hike in Arches NP

Join a guided small-group tour in Arches National Park and walk through some of the most spectacular geological formations in the U.S. Discover Delicate Arch, learn about the park's history, and enjoy gourmet snacks amid breathtaking scenery. Ready for a day of striking landscapes and expert insights? Keep reading to find out why this adventure stands out.

8 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.