Just two hours northeast of Calgary, minutes from the dinosauric lure of Drumheller, is the old, mystic ghost town of Wayne, Alberta. A fabulous place to camp and visit, the Sandy Page LGBTQ Campout this May long weekend will once again be pitched on the same property as the 101-year-old Rosedeer Hotel and the infamous Last Chance Saloon.
"The Campout is such a great place to meet new friends, come relax, play games, socialize, go hiking in the gorgeous valley, be as crazy or quiet as you like," says Greg McDonald, Media Relations, Marketing and Co-Host of the annual event weekend. "There’s zero judgment and 100 per cent welcome... lots of laughs and great memories."
McDonald has been attending the Campout for six years now.
"The first year I was slightly nervous because I didn’t know what to expect," he describes. "I was blown away at the scenery as I never have been in that area before. The people I met, their friendliness, and the positive vibe I got was like no other gay camping experience I’ve ever been to."
The Campout was started by Sandy Page 34 years ago. The now 66-year-old continues to host the event, bringing to them her amazing stories and fun-loving nature.
"You will thank yourself for coming out and getting away from reality for three fantastic days," McDonald says, going on to say that one of his favourite things about the camp is that there is no cell service. One must hike up a few hills to receive signal.
A shuffleboard tournament will be played Saturday afternoon in the saloon, while Sunday afternoon a beanbag toss and horse shoes will take place on the north lawn, and a group bonfire will be blazing Sunday night. McDonald says musical instruments and voices are wanted, and at one past Campout a gigantic 50-foot slip ‘n slide was crafted.
"During the games people cheer you on, they don’t judge you because you threw badly," he says. "Sunday evening the bonfire is such a nice place to reflect, have one more night of partying and celebration, break out the guitars, bongo drums or simply chill by the fire."
McDonald says people love the Campout because it’s not over the top, huge or loud. There are no hook ups, and no electricity for tent and/or RV sites. Just beautiful scenery and great people. There is, of course, the restaurant and saloon on site, as well as coin operated showers, so one can still freshen up and grab a bite within a short amble.
"Drumheller is super close by, so if camping is not your thing you can get a hotel room there," McDonald offers to those who can’t stand roughing it, so to speak. "Then just come out for the full day. If you need more restaurants, liquor or grocery stores they are close by."
Rooms at the Rosedeer book up fast. Camp spots, however, will run you only $30 for the whole weekend – and registration is not necessary.
"Just show up, setup then come find Sandy or myself to give payment," McDonald says, adding that $30 per person "is the cheapest you’re going to get anywhere in Alberta during the May long."
The Sandy Page Campout has been the site of many friendships and relationships formed. McDonald states it’s "total fun, craziness, lots of laughs and good times."
"I look forward to this weekend ever single year," he says. "There’s only one like it."
