The Bodo Archaeological Site is one of the largest and most well-preserved archaeological sites in Western Canada. Located in East Central Alberta, the site is a large and rich complex of archaeological history of Indigenous Peoples that date back as far back as 5000 years ago. The site also includes evidence for the continued use over the last 500 years of a “bison pound”, a method of communal First Nations hunting where hundreds of bison were driven into a penned off area (a pound or corral) and hunted. Butchering and processing of the bison took place in the areas nearby the pound, resulting in a rich archaeological deposit of bones, stone tools, pottery, and campfires.
At Bodo, you have the unique opportunity to take part in the ongoing archaeological excavation at this important locale and to contribute to the discovery of Alberta’s exciting past. The Bodo Archaeological Interpretive Centre is a small but detailed archaeological museum, where you can learn about archaeology, Indigenous culture and history through guided tours and many amazing hands-on activities and experiences e suitable for all ages.
Indulge your explorer spirit and join us for one of our annual summer programs for adventure and discovery! Annual summer programs include: Adult Dig-It Camps where you can join us in ongoing research as a community archaeologist in fieldwork and excavation, Kids Day Camps where your little ones can experience hands-on learning and fun, and and Curriculum Based School Tours. Looking for work? We offer summer Archaeology Jobs in which you get to strengthen your skills with archaeology, museum interpretation, and education.
Find us on INGON.ca, the History Check App, RumbleAlberta.com, Go East of Edmonton, Travel Alberta, Atlas Obsucra and others. These are amazing resources that showcase points of interest and tourist attractions throughout Alberta!
We respectfully acknowledge that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, near Sounding Lake where a Treaty 6 adhesion was signed in 1879, and in Battle River Territory, District 2 of the Métis Nation of Alberta. This is the ancestral and traditional territory of the Cree, Blackfoot, Dene, Salteaux, Nakota Sioux, Métis, and many other diverse Indigenous peoples whose histories, languages and cultures continue to enrich our communities.
Bodo Archaeological Site & Centre 