A unique way to experience the wonders of the opimihāw Valley.
Over six thousand years ago, Wanuskewin echoed with the thundering hooves of bison and the voices of Indigenous peoples from across the Northern Plains.
Today, visitors can relive the stories of the peoples who came to hunt bison, gather food and medicines, and escape the winter winds. Walking in their footsteps, you will understand why this site has always been and continues to be a place of celebration, renewal, and deep spirituality.
Wanuskewin is pleased to offer our visitors an evening interpretive experience and overnight accommodation at our outdoor Tipi Village with four 18 foot Plains Cree style tipis.
Bookings for the 2023 Tipi Sleepover season are CLOSED!
2024 season dates to come
Packages
Choose between our Regular and Deluxe Tipi Sleepover packages. Both include your choice of interpretive programming and an unforgettable evening for all ages.
NOTES:
- Because Wanuskewin is an Indigenous ceremonial and gathering place, there is a strict no drugs or alcohol policy in effect at all times.
- There are no shower facilities available on site.
Regular Tipi Sleepover
- Minimum charge of 15 participants
- Bring your own supplies (bed rolls and anything you may need for staying the night)
- Up to two hours of programming
- A Bannock Bake with Hot Chocolate in the Tipi Village
- Breakfast (waffles, sausages, juice; coffee available at an additional cost)
Extra programs and customized menus available at an additional cost.
Sample Itinerary*
Day 1
- 5:30 p.m. — Arrive at Wanuskewin for meet and greet and camp set-up
- 6:30 p.m. — Choice of 45-60 minute program
- 7:45 p.m. — Choice of 45-60 minute program
- 9:00 p.m. — Bannock Bake and hot chocolate around the campfire, along with a discussion of traditional Plains life (pending fire ban)
- 10:00 p.m. — Self-guided free time at Tipi Village
Day 2
- 8:00 a.m. — Rise, shine, and clean up Tipi Village
- 8:30 a.m. — Breakfast
- 9:00 a.m. — Option to stay on-site for self-guided touring or additional programming (must be arranged in advance at an additional cost; additional programming based on guide availability)
*Timing is flexible based on booking requirements
Deluxe Tipi Sleepover
Elevate your overnight visit with an in-depth exploration of Wanuskewin’s world-famous conservation bison herd before sleeping under the stars.
- Minimum charge of 6 participants (maximum of 12 participants)
- One 45-60 minute Tipi Teachings and a 2-hour specialty program, wahkohtowin: Bison Kinship
- A Bannock Bake with Hot Chocolate in the Tipi Village
- Dinner (Bison Stew and Bannock, Iced Peach Muskeg Tea)
- Bedding equipment (cots, sleeping bags, pillows)
- Breakfast (waffles, sausages, juice, coffee)
Extra programs and customized menus available at an additional cost.
Sample Itinerary*
Day 1
- 5:00 p.m. — Arrive at Wanuskewin – orientation to site
- 5:30 p.m. — Dinner at Tipi Village
- 6:15 p.m. — Tipi Teachings
- 7:00 p.m. — wahkohtowin: Bison Kinship
- 9:00 p.m. — Bannock Bake and hot chocolate around the campfire, along with a discussion of traditional Plains life (pending fire ban)
- 10:00 p.m. — Self-guided free time at Tipi Village
Day 2
- 8:00 a.m. — Rise, shine, and clean up Tipi Village
- 8:30 a.m. — Breakfast
- 9:00 a.m. — Option to stay onsite for self-guided touring or additional programming (must be arranged in advance, at additional cost and pending availability)
*Timing is flexible based on booking requirements
Tipi Sleepover Pricing 2023 season
| Minimum Charge of 15 participants | n/a | $975 |
| Additional Participants | Per person | $65 |
| Adult Chaperones | n/a | $30 |
| Additional 45-60 Minute Program/Guide | Per group | $100 |
| Early Arrival or Late Departure – Self-guided | Per group | $150 |
| Minimum Charge of 6 participants | n/a | $750 |
| Additional Participants (up to a maximum of 12 participants) | Per person | $85 |
| Additional 45-60 Minute Program/Guide | Per group | $100 |
| Early Arrival or Late Departure – Self-guided | Per group | $150 |
Sample Programs
Native Plant Walk
Learn about the medicinal and edible plants in the opimihāw Valley that Indigenous peoples use for sustenance, shelter, and tools.
Tipi Teachings
Join us as we share the Plains Cree style tipi teachings gifted to Wanuskewin by Elder Mary Lee, and the life lessons that go along with each of these fifteen poles.
Traditional Games
Try your hand at playing some traditional games to practice your hunting, physical, and social skills during this interactive program.
FAQ – Regular Tipi Sleepover
What to Bring:
- sleeping bag appropriate for the weather, pillow, and other bedding (bedroll)
- foam or small mat to sleep on (wooden base in tipi)
- personal effects (toothbrush, deodorant, etc. – UNSCENTED – please note we have NO shower facilities)
- appropriate clothing and footwear for weather conditions, and extra layers!
- bug spray
- flashlight
