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McGregor Lake Real Estate
Community Information
May 15, 05:56am
Find McGregor Lake community information for Rural Vulcan County
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McGregor Lake real estate is home to the Lake McGregor Country Estates resort community, which looks down on the south end of the lake. Search McGregor lake real estate listings homes for Sale in Alberta. Mcgregor lake homes listings on the MLS® System find real estate statistics, Open Houses, REALTORS®, zone maps, news. More McGregor Lake real estate housing statistics
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McGregor Lake Community Overview
Find answers to the most common questions about McGregor Lake, a stunning 40-kilometer reservoir in Vulcan County offering year-round recreation, affordable lakefront living, and exceptional fishing opportunities just over an hour from Calgary.
Where is McGregor Lake located?
McGregor Lake is located in Vulcan County, Southern Alberta, approximately 100 km southeast of Calgary. The lake is an elongated reservoir stretching 40 km in length and about 2 km in width, created in 1920 by the completion of two dams bracketing Snake Valley. The lake sits at an elevation of 868 metres and has a surface area of over 5,000 hectares. The nearest community is the village of Milo, located on the east shore of the lake.
How did McGregor Lake get its name?
McGregor Lake was named after J.D. McGregor, the Canadian manager of the British-owned Canada Land and Irrigation Company that built the reservoir. McGregor later became Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba in 1929. The reservoir was constructed as a ten-year project beginning in 1909, with the lake beginning to fill in 1920.
What types of properties are available at McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake offers a variety of affordable real estate options including:
- Lake-view lots: Starting from $85,000 for a 5,228 sq ft lot at 10 Lake McGregor Drive
- Village lots in Milo: 0.23 acre residential lots from $112/month financing, with lake privileges and fishing access
- Acreage properties: 2.99-acre parcels with existing water wells and utilities at the property line, from $209,000
- Cottage developments: Growing cottage community on the east shore of the lake near Milo
What is the average home price in the McGregor Lake area?
The McGregor Lake real estate market offers very affordable entry points. The average listing price is approximately $339,333, with prices ranging from $74,000 for entry-level lots to $675,000 for luxury estate properties. Lake-view lots start as low as $85,000, making this one of the most affordable lakefront communities within driving distance of Calgary.
Are there lots available for sale near McGregor Lake?
Yes, there are several lots available in the McGregor Lake area:
- 10 Lake McGregor Drive, Vulcan – 5,228 sq ft lot listed at $85,000
- 104 McGregor Close, Milo – 0.23 acre residential lot with lake privileges
- Township Road 194, Rural Vulcan County – 2.99-acre parcel with existing water well and utilities at the property line, listed at $209,000
What camping is available at McGregor Lake?
Lake McGregor Provincial Recreation Area offers approximately 100 unserviced campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground operates seasonally from May to October. Amenities include a boat launch, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and water from hand pumps (for fire use only—bring your own drinking water). The campground qualifies for Alberta seniors' camping fee discounts.
What fishing is available at McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake is renowned for excellent sport fishing. Species include:
- Walleye – Stocked regularly, popular with anglers
- Northern Pike (Jackfish) – Local residents have reported catching pike up to 22 lbs
- Lake Whitefish – Spawning whitefish visible in October at the sluice gate
- Yellow Perch and Rainbow Trout
The lake was commercially fished for northern pike (since 1938) and lake whitefish (since 1948), with annual catches historically reaching 200,000 pounds worth close to a million dollars.
What water sports and recreation are available at McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake offers a wide range of water sports and recreational activities:
- Sailing and wind surfing – The lake's size and prairie winds make it ideal for wind sports
- Water skiing and power boating – Motorized boating is permitted
- Canoeing and kayaking – Explore the 40 km length of the reservoir
- Swimming and picnicking – At the Lake McGregor Recreation Area beach
- Bird watching – American white pelicans, cormorants, snow geese, Canada geese, blue-winged teals, marbled godwits, and long-billed curlews
- Wildlife viewing – Prairie plants including cushion cactus and prickly pear cactus bloom in June
Is there a boat launch at McGregor Lake?
Yes, there are two boat launch locations:
- McGregor Lake Recreation Area – At the northwest corner of the lake (Milo Campground), featuring a boat launch, playgrounds, and picnic shelters
- Lomond Crossing – Secondary Road 531 crossing the lake, accessible for small boats
What amenities are available in Milo?
The village of Milo is located on the east shore of McGregor Lake and offers essential amenities:
- Grocery store
- Restaurant and bar
- Alberta Treasury Branch (ATB)
- K-9 school
- Curling rink
- Community hall
- 24-hour access Cardlock fuel station
- Various local businesses
What schools serve the McGregor Lake area?
The McGregor Lake area is served by schools in the nearby communities. Milo has a K-9 school within the village. For high school, students typically attend schools in Vulcan or other nearby towns. The area falls within the Grasslands School Division.
Being approximately 100 km from Calgary, residents also have access to all of Calgary's educational options, including post-secondary institutions.
What healthcare options are near McGregor Lake?
The nearest healthcare facilities are in Vulcan and High River:
- High River General Hospital – Approximately 45-50 minutes northwest
- Vulcan Community Health Centre – Local medical services in Vulcan
- Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary – Approximately 60-70 minutes north for specialized care
How far is McGregor Lake from Calgary?
McGregor Lake is located approximately 100 km southeast of Calgary, about a 60-75 minute drive. Access is via Highway 24 to Milo or via Secondary Road 531. The drive provides scenic prairie views and is an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the city. Vulcan is approximately 30 minutes northwest, and Lethbridge is about 90 minutes south.
What is the history of McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Prehistorically, Snake Valley was a thoroughfare for members of the Blackfoot Confederacy. The first European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, with ranching well established by the 1880s. Construction of the reservoir began in 1909, taking ten years to complete, with the lake beginning to fill in 1920. The Canada Land and Irrigation Company built the North and South McGregor dams. The reservoir was administered privately until 1950, when the federal Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration assumed control. In 1973, McGregor Lake and its control structures were transferred to Alberta Environment.
Is McGregor Lake dog-friendly?
Yes, McGregor Lake is a dog-friendly destination. The Lake McGregor Campground allows pets, and the many walking trails and open spaces around the lake are perfect for enjoying with your dog. As always, keep pets on a leash and clean up after them to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Is McGregor Lake a good place for families?
Yes, McGregor Lake is a popular family destination. The Lake McGregor Recreation Area features playgrounds, picnic shelters, a boat launch, and a swimming beach. Fishing, boating, and wind surfing offer activities for all ages. Nearby Milo has a K-9 school, curling rink, grocery store, and other amenities. Year-round activities include camping, fishing, bird watching, and water sports.
Is the water quality good at McGregor Lake for swimming?
McGregor Lake has attractive, clear water with generally low algal concentrations that do not interfere with recreational use. The lake is suitable for swimming, boating, and other water activities. The water is part of the Carseland-Bow River Headworks System, which delivers irrigation water to the Bow River Irrigation District, supporting agriculture in the surrounding area.
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Frequently Asked Questions About
McGregor Lake Housing Market
Get instant answers to the most common questions about living in McGregor Lake, real estate housing market trends, and community amenities. Updated with current market data.
Is McGregor Lake a good place to live?
Yes, McGregor Lake is considered one of Rural Vulcan County's best neighborhoods. It offers an exceptional quality of life with a walkable main street, local shops and restaurants, and a strong sense of community. The area features excellent schools, parks, and is known for its safe, family-friendly atmosphere. With its central location, residents enjoy convenient access to downtown Rural Vulcan County while having direct access to pathway systems and parks.
What types of properties are available in McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake offers a variety of property types including single-family detached homes, townhomes, condominiums, duplexes, and new construction developments. The community has options for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and downsizers. Housing styles range from character homes and bungalows to modern luxury infills and townhome complexes.
Is McGregor Lake expensive?
McGregor Lake is considered a desirable inner-city neighborhood in Rural Vulcan County. Due to its walkability, mature character, and convenient location, home values reflect the premium of inner-city living while offering a connected, amenity-rich lifestyle within reach of downtown Rural Vulcan County.
What amenities are available in McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake features parks, walking trails, playgrounds, shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, and recreational facilities. The community is also served by several highly-rated schools and is conveniently located near major transportation routes. Popular local businesses include coffee shops, bakeries, breweries, and boutique retail stores that create a vibrant main street atmosphere.
What schools are in McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake is served by several highly-rated public and private schools. The community falls within the Rural Vulcan County school district, which is known for its strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and diverse educational options including regular programming, French immersion, Catholic education, and private school alternatives.
What is the commute time from McGregor Lake to downtown Rural Vulcan County?
Commute times from McGregor Lake to downtown Rural Vulcan County typically range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and mode of transportation. The community has excellent access to public transit including bus rapid transit routes, as well as major roadway connections that make driving into the downtown core convenient.
What public transit options serve McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake is served by multiple Calgary Transit bus routes and rapid transit lines that connect directly to downtown Rural Vulcan County and LRT stations. The community's transit hub provides frequent service during peak hours, making it a popular commuting option for professionals working in the city core. Travel times to downtown are typically under 20 minutes.
How did McGregor Lake get its name?
McGregor Lake has a unique history tied to the local community. The name reflects the area's heritage and the families who helped shape the neighborhood. The community's main street festival and local landmarks continue to honor this legacy, making it a distinctive part of Rural Vulcan County's cultural fabric.
Is McGregor Lake dog-friendly?
Yes, McGregor Lake is extremely dog-friendly. The community is home to several parks with off-leash areas featuring walking trails and scenic views. Many local cafes, breweries, and restaurants welcome dogs on their patios, and the area has pet supply stores and grooming services within walking distance. It is common to see residents walking their dogs along the main streets and pathways.
What is the main street festival in McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake hosts a popular annual street festival during the summer months, typically held in July or August. This signature community event is one of the longest-running street festivals in the region, closing down the main avenue for a pedestrian-friendly celebration. The event features local vendors, food trucks, live music, street performers, kids' activities, and family entertainment, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
What parks and green spaces are near McGregor Lake?
McGregor Lake is surrounded by excellent parks and green spaces. The community features multiple playgrounds, sports fields, off-leash dog parks, and a major river pathway system that connects cyclists and pedestrians to other parts of the city. These green spaces offer stunning views and year-round recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
McGregor Lake Housing Market
Explore market trends and available properties in McGregor Lake.
Average Price: $339,333
See Market StatsLocal McGregor Lake Schools
Learn about educational options and school ratings in the area.
Public & Catholic schools available
View SchoolsFeatured Area Resources
McGregor Lake REALTOR® Referral
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McGregor Lake Neighbourhood Profile
McGregor Lake is a residential neighbourhood in Rural Vulcan County offering:
- Diverse housing options from single-family homes to condominiums
- Walk Score of 50/100 - Somewhat Walkable
- Proximity to major employment centers and transportation routes
- Active community association with year-round events
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Schedule a Neighbourhood TourMcGregor Lake Emergency Resources
& Phone Numbers
Important emergency contacts and resources for McGregor Lake residents:
Calgary Police Service
The Calgary Police Service provides law enforcement and public safety services to the Calgary area.
Alberta Health Services
Emergency medical care and health information.
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Contact Today's Featured AgentSchools in McGregor Lake
McGregor Lake offers quality educational options for families:
Public Schools
- Elementary: McGregor Lake School
- Middle: Rural Vulcan County Middle School
- High: Rural Vulcan County High School
Catholic Schools
- Elementary: St. McGregor Lake
- High: Bishop Rural Vulcan County
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