Our story
Not a company. A homestead.
We're not a company. We're a homestead, built with our own hands and run by three generations living on the land together.
The moment that changed everything
“I had never met happier people.”
I was 22 when I first saw the world through a different lens. An internship took me to Gambia, West Africa, and that experience radically changed my life. The Gambians I lived with had almost nothing, but what they did have was each other.
I returned home knowing one thing for certain: this is how I want to live. A life rooted in community, connection and self sufficiency.
Denika Piggott, founder
A partnership built on purpose
“What if we do this together?”
When Nic and I met, it was clear we shared the same vision. We spent a year abroad volunteering in intentional communities, and learned that the key to a thriving community is not just land. It is people.
We had the dream, the knowledge and the drive, but not the money to buy the land. That is when Veona, my mom, entered the picture. With her support, we secured the land that would become Secret Sanctuary.
Along the trail
How we got here
- 01
April 2021
We bought the land that would become Secret Sanctuary.
- 02
June 2021
Denika joined Hipcamp as a host.
- 03
June 4, 2022
Our official Launch Party, with communal dishes and dancing boots.
- 04
2025
Together We Thrive monthly gatherings, May to October, and named one of Hipcamp’s best glamping stays in Canada.
- 05
2026
Named one of the Best Hipcamps in Alberta.
Three generations on the land
The people you will meet
You will not just meet staff. You will meet like minded people living with intention, connection and care for the Earth.
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Denika Piggott
Founder · Mindset Coach · Face and Body Artist · Potter
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Nic
Denika’s partner, builder of the first compost outhouse and fire pits
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Veona Drennan
B.Sc., RMP, RM, CAP · Community Healer
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Sophie Cantelon
Yoga Instructor · Wellness guide
Why we are different
More than a stay
- 01
Real Homestead Life
From gardens to pigs and chickens, you’ll experience everyday life on a working, off-grid homestead, not just watch from the sidelines.
- 02
Multigenerational & Family-Run
We're not a company. We're a homestead, built with our own hands and run by three generations living on the land together.
- 03
Conscious Community
You won’t just meet staff. You'll meet like-minded people living with intention, connection, and care for the Earth.
- 04
All-Inclusive Nature Access
We believe nature should be for everyone, which is why we offer camping, glamping, and affordable options for all kinds of families.
- 05
Holistic Wellness
From massage and reiki to handmade body care and soul-nourishing experiences, our offerings support whole-body wellness grounded in nature and simplicity.
- 06
Playful Family Experiences
Explore trails, paddleboard the lake, visit animals, or walk barefoot through the woods. Here, play is sacred and connection is everywhere.
- 07
More Than a Stay. An Experience.
From hands-on workshops and wellness sessions to paddleboarding and forest play, this is a place to learn, relax, and experience life.
Hipcamp
98% of Hipcamp guests recommend us. Named one of the Best Hipcamps in Alberta (2026) and Best glamping in Canada (2025).
Hipcamp reviews
Your spot by the fire is waiting
Book a glamping tent, the Tiny Home Cabin or a forest campsite, just over an hour from Edmonton.