Fans of the show are eager to know where Back to the Frontier was filmed, especially given its sweeping landscapes and authentic frontier aesthetic. The game-show-style reality series created by Joanna Gaines follows a bold social experiment in which modern-day families leave behind the 21st century to live like 1800s pioneers. With zero modern comforts, the experience tests their strength, stamina, and sense of humor, one challenge at a time.
So, where was Back to the Frontier filmed? Here’s a closer look at the actual location.
All filming locations where Back to the Frontier was shot
The production team filmed Back to the Frontier entirely in one place: the stunning grassy plains near Calgary, Alberta (via Country Living).
Located about an hour from the city, this picturesque setting recreated the 1880s, immersing three American families—the Halls from Florida, the Lopers from Alabama, and the Hannah-Riggs family from Texas—in frontier-style cabins without modern amenities. Let’s explore the unique aspects that brought this setting to life.
The Rural Prairie: Untamed and Stunning
Set designers and producers picked the Canadian prairie for its pristine beauty. This wild expanse, alive with grasshoppers and covered in tall grasses, became both a home for families and a test of survival throughout the summer. Without electricity, plumbing, or air conditioning, families lived in hand-built shelters and kept farm animals. They also relied on their ingenuity to withstand the elements.
Cabin Living & Rustic Decor
Each family resided in handcrafted log cabins adorned with beautiful rustic decor that truly embodied the spirit of the frontier. Craftsmen expertly crafted the interiors, featuring wood-hewn furniture, simple storage solutions, and straw-filled bedding, to reflect the charm of the 1800s. The meticulous attention to detail in the decor not only captivated viewers but also transported them completely back in time.
Gilbert’s General Store
Another important part of the show is Gilbert’s General Store, a fully operational trading post constructed on set. Here, families bought essentials they couldn’t produce themselves. The store offered items like penny candy for the kids, whiskey and wine for the adults, and supplies for homesteading.
Big Shirley & the Milk Supply
Big Shirley, the show’s cherished cow, became a crucial part of the families’ everyday lives. She provided a reliable source of milk that nourished the participants and highlighted the show’s dedication to self-sufficiency. Shirley and the other animals actively contributed to the show’s authenticity and played a key role.
Subscribe to Magnolia Network or HBO Max to watch all the latest episodes of Back to the Frontier.
