Best Camping Spots in Alberta
Alberta could see as many as 900 new campsites over the next 10 years due to high demand. It's one of the best locations for camping in Canada and outdoor enthusiasts have taken notice.
The province has many diverse camping destinations but choosing the right one isn't always easy. The following guide will help narrow down your list by covering the best camping spots in Alberta.
Read on and make your next Alberta camping trip an unforgettable experience!
Two Jack Lakeside Campground
Pack a dry bag and head to Two Jack Lakeside Campground for some of the best waterfront camping in Alberta. The beautiful lake resides inside Banff National Park and boasts amazing views.
You can set up your tent right beside the lake for scenic sights and easy access to the water. If you're into canoeing, rafting, or paddleboarding, it's a must-try campground.
It's also a great camping option for fishermen looking to catch whitefish, rainbow trout, brown trout, and lake trout. The campground also has access to hiking trails such as Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Trail.
Keep in mind that you'll need a pass because the campground is inside a national park. You can save a lot on your camping pass by going with an unserviced site rather than an equipped site.
The Lodge at Panther River
You'll find the Lodge at Panther Valley in the backcountry close to Sundre. Campers drive down a dirt road to get to the site and some catch glimpses of wild horses on their way.
With activities like white water rafting and horseback riding, It's the perfect spot if you're feeling adventurous. You can even sign up for a helicopter ride that takes you far into the mountains at night.
It's also an ideal location if you prefer to have restrooms and showers near your campground. The campgrounds at the lodge can accommodate both tents and RVs and include things like picnic tables, wood, and fire rings.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
Dinosaur Provincial Park makes for a great camping option for families. It's a UNESCO world heritage site and it has a lot of activities and history to explore.
The hiking trails aren't too rigorous, so they're great for all ages. It's also open all year which makes it easy to schedule a trip to the park. You'll also find fossil display houses and 2 outdoor displays within the park.
The campsites are near the Red Deer River and they're surrounded by giant cottonwood trees. If you're into biking, consider taking a ride through the scenic loop to get excellent views of the breathtaking badlands.
Pine Lake Campground
Consider Pine Lake Campground if you truly enjoy straying from the beaten path. It will require you to travel all the way to Wood Buffalo National Park located in Northern Alberta.
Wood Buffalo is the biggest Canadian national park, but Pine Lake is its' only campground. Though it's not as convenient to get to as other campgrounds, it's perfect if you're seeking isolation.
You'll still find picnic tables, wood, outhouses, tent pads, and fire pits at the secluded campground. Campers also have access to water, but they must boil it before filling their water bottles up.
The campground's day-use area includes a shelter for cooking, changing rooms, and fire pits. There's even a beach if you feel like taking a dip and a nearby playground if you plan on camping with your children.
Icefield Tent Campground
Imagine waking up in the morning to an Athabasca Glacier outside of your tent. The Icefield Tent Campground and its' 33 sites make that possible.
Because there aren't all that many sites available, it's a very calm and tranquil campground. Consider this option if you really want to immerse yourself in nature and find peace and quiet.
Of course, there are plenty of activities to do as well if you're looking for a faster pace. Campers can stop by the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre or take a hike along the Icefields Parkway.
The campground opens in June each year and makes for an excellent summer getaway. Even driving through the Icefields Parkway to get to the campground offers a unique experience for visitors!
Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
Sites at this park are often hard to book because they're in such high demand. But if you can reserve a spot, it's one of the most stunning camping spots in Southern Alberta.
From bird-watching and fishing to swimming and hiking, there are activities for all kinds of campers. Many visitors come for the ancient pictographs. They're carved into the sandstone rocks and there are guided tours available to explain their history.
Other notable activities include kayaking and tubing down the river. Just remember to plan ahead and book well in advance if you want to try out Writing-on-Stone.
Point Backcountry Campground
You'll have to hike for three kilometers to access Point Backcountry Campground. But don't worry, it's a laidback hike full of awesome views to take in along the way.
The campground is inside Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and has only 20 sites situated next to the Upper Kananaskis Lake. The campground provides fire pits, wood, dry toilets, and storage lockers for food.
You can fish for rainbow trout, bull trout, and cutthroat trout on the lake. Just remember to get your fishing license before your camping trip if you want to cast out.
Three Isle Lake Campground
If you're up for a challenge, consider Three Isle Lake Campground. It requires a lengthy hike to access the campground, but the lake views and seclusion are more than worth the effort.
Privacy is one of the biggest benefits of this campground found inside Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Just remember that the lake's water levels drop significantly later in the summer. You can access the campground between June 23rd and November 30th.
Experiencing the Best Camping Spots in Alberta
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly experience or a challenging hike to seclusion, now you know the best camping spots in Alberta. Keep this guide in mind and plan your next camping trip with confidence!
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