Saskatchewan Sand Hills – Part 2 – If you want to visit part 1 click here.
Small World – even in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Surprises
While sitting in the van eating supper, a passenger van suddenly peeled into the parking lot beside me. The driver hopped out and was checking if he needed bug spray before heading out for a photo shoot.
As he turned my way, we both said “Mike” at the same time. Turns out it was a couple I knew from Lethbridge who had moved to Calgary years ago — and here we were, bumping into each other in the middle of nowhere, Saskatchewan!
Considering the size of Canada, running into someone you know in a remote part of the province is very weird. But the Sand Hills seem to have a special draw — despite how remote they are, they attract photographers and nature lovers from everywhere.
Photography Tip:
If you’re heading out that way, bring your camera and a sense of adventure. The dunes, the wildlife, and especially the night skies offer some amazing photo opportunities. If you can swing it, spend a full day there — from before sunrise right through to after dark. It’s worth it.
Was the trip worth it?
Absolutely. A perfect Saskatchewan adventure — and I even managed to check three photo subjects off my bucket list:
✔️ The Saskatchewan Sand Dunes
✔️ A Common Nighthawk
✔️ A Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
(Okay… I didn’t know the last two were on the list until I saw them. But now they are, and they’re checked off!)
Should You Go?
Do I recommend heading to the Saskatchewan Sand Dunes? YOU BET I DO!
It honestly felt like being in Africa — without ever leaving Canada. The sand blowing across the trail, the dry air, the surprising life hidden in the dunes… it was surreal. Having a van from France parked nearby just added to the international vibe!
Would I go again?
Absolutely. Next time, I’ll try for slightly cooler weather. It wasn’t unbearable, but with lower temps, I think I’d see more wildlife and insects to photograph. If you’ve got a day or two, it’s well worth the drive.
The Van – White Turtle III
How did the White Turtle III handle the adventure? AMAZING!
It was a dream having cold pop and water on hand and a comfy bed waiting when the day was done. I packed enough food for several days, and with more than half a tank of fuel, I could’ve stayed out there longer without issue.
Heading south from the main parking area, the sand road softened quickly. I had to engage the limited-slip differential — and it handled like a champ.
Power-wise, I had lots of battery left the next day, but I’m considering adding a second battery, or maybe swapping in the four 6-volt batteries from the camper for winter trips. Once the furnace is running full time, it’ll be good to have a bit more capacity.
One thing I was really glad about? Not taking the bigger motorhome. The roads were narrow, rough, and torn up in spots. The van handled it perfectly — couldn’t have asked for better.
