Camping in Alberta

The Canadian Rockies are a no-brainer, but Alberta also offers badlands, Indigenous history, and dinosaur fossils.

95% (1206 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alberta

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds in Alberta

94%
(16)

Bragg Creek Glamping

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Calgary, Division No. 6
Located on 2,5 acres of forest in Wintergreen Bragg Creek, the land offers access to nearby trails at West Bragg Creek day-use area, golf, horseback riding, Elbow Falls, Forget-me-Not pond, and 11 awesome places to dine in Bragg Creek. We have 2 amenities: Shanti Yurt and Rustic Cozy Cabin with hot tubs.
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CA$140
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94%
(18)

Nature Alive Adventures and Camping

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Fort Assiniboine, Division No. 13
Our property is located in the heart of the boreal forest with plenty of birds, trees, peace and quiet. We have a mix of open spaces, walking trails, wetland discovery zones and dense forest, both on site and surrounding our land. We are near good fishing and swimming lakes and close to the Athabasca and Freeman Rivers. Our property is rated Class II on the Alberta Dark Skies Map. We welcome all campers, whether you are a newbie or a seasoned explorer of all outdoor places and spaces. We offer 2 cabins, 6 RV spots, and up to 10 tent sites Summer activities: Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, bird watching, star gazing, hot tub Winter activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, animal tracking, star gazing, hot tenting, hot tub Custom Activities: Hire our on site guides for Interpretive forest walks, edible and medicinal plant walks, knife skills and carving projects, animal tracking walks, canoe rentals and guided trips on nearby lakes or river, snowshoe walks, and bushcraft skills sessions Year round facility.
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CA$35
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(10)

Hidden Springs Retreat & Guesthouse

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Wetaskiwin County 10, Division No. 11
A place of restorative peace and relaxation. Located on 160 acres of rolling parkland east of Winfield, Alberta, Hidden Springs is a place to stay, play, and connect.Whether you’re seeking quiet time by yourself, or space to reconnect with friends and family, the Guesthouse is furnished to make you feel at home. Get cozy in front of the wood stove, spread a personal project out across the dining room table, settle into a puzzle or game, read on the deck, spend a day cooking, or watch the weather roll in across the valley.The Guesthouse is made up of two self-contained suites (upper and lower) connected by exterior stairs. The upper suite features a full kitchen (including stove, fridge, microwave and water cooler), a spacious living room, wood stove, and a large deck overlooking the valley. This suite sleeps up to four guests, with a queen bed in the bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the common space.The lower suite can accommodate up to six people, with two queen-size beds and an additional pullout. It features a kitchenette (including sink, small fridge, microwave, and water cooler.) Its small brick patio offers a serene view of the pond below.WiFi is free and available throughout the guesthouse.
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CA$35
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98%
(265)

The Secret Sanctuary

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Wetaskiwin, Division No. 11
We are passionate about nature and the environment. Living close to off-grid makes this area low in EMF, light and noise pollution. The well water is clean, pure and delicious. We are excited to share this Alberta wilderness with like-minded outdoor-type individuals who enjoy community camping. There are two beautiful lakes (Battle Lake and Pigeon Lake) within a 10-minute drive that offer boating, fishing, beaches, biking and walking trails. Our property is about 1 hour south of Edmonton, Alberta. We have 3 different listings to choose from. Our Tiny Home Cabin, Glamping tents, RVs and camping. Come enjoy this tranquil piece of nature with us - we look forward to hosting you!
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CA$30
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(5)

Sunrise cabin

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Edmonton, Division No. 11
The property is a beautiful 6 acres covered with mostly trees. Devon is a 15 minute drive away, where they have all kinds of walking and biking trails as well as access to the river where you can enjoy the beach, rent tubes and go floating, or kayak on the river. The property is pet friendly. Please note that our 2 year old Catahoula "Lexi" free roams the acreage and loves to play with other dogs. If you're bringing your furry friends please let us know when you will be arriving and we can properly introduce the pups. The property is about 18 minutes from West Edmonton and 10 minutes from Spruce Grove. Please note that cabin is off-grid and not heated. There is solar power for lights and so you can charge your phone or other small electronics.
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CA$70
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99%
(155)

Cattle Ranch in the Foothills

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · Division No. 15
We are a working cattle ranch about 10 minutes drive off of HiWay #1. You’re surrounded by wildlife and outdoor activities just as you step out of the door. We offer lots of privacy. During most of your stay, you will think there’s no one on the ranch but you! We’re close to a golf course, about 40 minutes to Canmore, one hour to Banff, and 40 minutes to Downtown Calgary. Perfect for day trips for activities other than camping. Our cows are tame, but not house pets, especially when they have their calves near by! They’ll be curious, but then go back to munching on grass.
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CA$40
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98%
(29)

Hempcrete Haven Farm

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Edmonton, Division No. 13
Surrounded by three big lakes, just off the Yellowhead, and nestled into a community of hobby farms and cattle ranches, Hempcrete Haven is a perfect hideaway. The 40 acre family farm has been wild pasture and forest for decades. Rolling pasture, ponds, forests and native berries galore. We steward this land with care. Stay tuned for more cabins! Including a smaller dome in the back 40, and dome greenhouses!
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CA$30
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(6)

Campino Natural

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Edmonton, Division No. 11
We are an Adult Only 25+ Naturist/Nudist Retreat on a Private Acreage minutes away from the City. We offer amenities such as heated above ground pool, Hot Tub, Sauna, Beach and Sports Field. You can Hike Freely 'naturally' on our 1.2 km Nature Path. Your Spacious Bell-Tent is equipped with a Queen Bed, Plenty of Comfy Blankets and Pillows. CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. Re-opening May long weekend 2023. Accepting Bookings April 2023
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CA$129
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Booked 3 times

Finnish Off-Grid Foothills Cabin

1 site · Lodging500 acres · Division No. 3
Off-grid experience (solar-powered and rainwater fed) for hikers, skiers or relaxers. This unique Finnish-inspired cabin has stunning views at all hours of the day and rich wildlife as well as Nature experiences in every direction. Steps away from the back entrance to the new Castle Provincial Park, and adjacent to thousands of acres of beautiful and accessible crown and park land. Many surrounding peaks from which to choose for the hikers and bikers, and two hills 40 minutes away for skiers. The cabin is situated on 480 acres of land on which there are no other houses, and adjacent to publicly-accessible land that spans thousands of acres. There is wildlife of all kinds and beautiful views right into British-Columbia and Montana. This is off-grid but there IS cell phone service :) DISCLAIMER: please be advised that the cabin situated adjacent to Park and Crown land and wildlife of all sizes frequents the area. We advise that you be bear-aware, proceed with knowledge and carry spray while walking on the property.
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CA$150
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98%
(24)

Rustic Riverside Camping

5 sites · Lodging50 acres · Bragg Creek, Division No. 6
Camp riverside at the gateway to Kananaskis! Onespot Crossing Campground is a family owned Indigenous campground that hosts powows and other cultural events on site. Revenue from your booking will go towards supporting Indigenous programming at the campground.Please be mindful that the roads at this campground are bumpy dirt roads.
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CA$175
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96%
(14)

Starry Nights and Northern Lights

2 sites · Lodging11 acres · Tomahawk, Division No. 11
COZY WOOD STOVE with all the wood you need to keep your cabin toasty; warm, clean linens and plenty of blankets - this cabin is next level glamping, and a perfect get away from the city. Dish service is also included; you don't have to wash a single dish! CABIN SLEEPS 2. Contact us for special group bookings over two people. Perfect for star-gazers or get away from the city for some rest and relaxation. Welcome to our little farm! We offer our guests a comfortable, affordable and unique off-grid, frontier style, private glamping experience with a micro cabin fit for two; and space to pitch a tent or RV for your loved ones. Up to 6 people max. No more than 2 people in cabin. Cabin is adults only. Warm up by the wood stove and enjoy a hot bevie. This site is well known for star gazing; meteor and northern light enthusiasts. The stars and northern lights have been amazing this year and our spot is perfect for the best starry views! Boone Frontier Homestead and Organics covers every aspect of off grid experience: driving distance to Wabamun lake and Pembina River, private country setting with no sharing. Listen to the tree frogs and bird song while dozing off with a good book. Take a look at our site to learn more about us, and book your stay today. WINTER: The cabin's heat source is wood stove. There is no heater. Shoes are not permitted in cabin, make sure to bring your comfy socks and slippers. Woodstove wood for inside the cabin is included at no additional cos, to help keep you toasty, until May Long weekend. Summer or outdoor firepit wood: Wood bundles can be purchased for $12 each Learn more about this land: - Big country field with beautiful views, and a forest to hike behind the pastures. - Cabin is a one room; open concept shed convert to micro cabin with wood stove. 2 guests only in cabin, MAXIMUM. - Small cook/food prep area in cabin. No sink, and no dishes either! Dishes provided are to be placed in sealed bin, that we take care of for you. - Cabin and site have NO POWER. This is an off grid experience in a well stocked cabin. Lighting is by candle and kerosene lamp, pioneer style! Caretakers are near by in case you need anything. - A healthy bundle of wood is included during check in. Need more, no problem. Text to order between 11am and 7pm at $12 a bundle. - Park an RV or set up a tent for the kids or friends; and stay in the cabin all to yourself or with a loved one. - No sharing with other guests, its' all yours. - Outdoor Firepit with seating area and sitting bench with table - Pergola and private and clean outhouse.   - Gravel driveway up to the site - Gravel parking pad and grass, mostly level. No stairs.   - Onsite Barnacle the BBQ (propane is an add on) - Potable water provided upon request - Check-in as early as 4pm; sleep in and check out at 12pm. - Request an early check in or a later check out, no problem if we aren't booked! Planning a romantic surprise? Let us know. We can help you coordinate a romantic evening. Check out our website for more info! Go hiking at close by provincial parks, crown land or nature areas a short drive away. Plenty of options a short drive away for ice fishing, cross country skiing in the winter. Or kick back, relax and enjoy nature therapy in the country. Pre-order farm fresh organics to cook on the wood stove or over the fire.  Order a picnic basket of snacks or bring your own. Warm complimentary beverages await being made by the kettle upon check in. This is a true hidden gem. *********************************************************** LOCAL AMENITIES AND ATTRACTIONS:  VISITOR GUIDE (Will be sent to you upon booking). . CHECK OUT Seba Beach!  SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS . The General Store, since 1912. Check out this historic building; and all the hidden treasures that wait within.  Also another next stop shop for ice cream; snacks, food, beverages, alcohol (beer/wine, liquor, ciders and more), and supplies.  ATM also inside.   . Open May long - Seba Beach Mini Golf and Ice Cream . The Gainford Hotel Burger Bar 'GET STUFFED' and Iron Lady Saloon (new) . RV Pub and Grill, Driving range (patio) . Mead tasting at the Grey Owl Meadery . Pine Ridge Golf Course with Los Toritos Mexican Grill (patio) . Star gazing and Northern Lights . Tomahawk Liquor Store.  Close by stop to pick up your spirits!  Summer hours 11am to 8pm.  Located at 4911 50 Street. . Race Trac Gas, Gas/Propane. Closest fuel stop, convenience store, hunting and fishing licenses and summer soft serve ice cream!  Located at 5102 50th Street, open until 8:30pm. . Wabamun Lake Provincial Park and Recreational Area. Swimming and paddle boarding, to Ice fishing, cross country skiing. Day use - picnic, hike, bike, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and more!  Head north on hwy 759 through the village of Seba, then take the Edmonton excit heading east on the yellowhead.  Located 25km east down the Yellowhead hwy 16.  OR take the road less travelled...  . Historic churches.  Many of them are closed, but still worth a stop to go on a drive.  The history of Horen (the quaint community you are staying in; located between Seba Beach and Tomahawk) was established by Ukranian settlers in the late 1940's/early 1950's. . Enjoy your stay!
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CA$110
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(14)

Avant Gardens

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Wetaskiwin, Division No. 11
Avant Gardens offers 2 separately rented sites: one is a small rustic cabin and the other is a tenting (or small RV/van) area nestled in the bush on 45 acres in rural Leduc County. The 2 sites share an outhouse. The property is 5 minutes down the road from Coal Lake which offers fishing, boating and more. There is no running water but drinking water is available on site. Group camping is welcome. Firewood is available for purchase.
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CA$35
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Star Hosts in Alberta

Under $50

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The best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in Alberta guide

The glacier-topped peaks, aqua lakes, and scenic campgrounds of the Canadian Rockies draw most of Alberta’s visitors, who come to explore Banff and Jasper national parks. And beyond those parks, this western province is worth visiting to hike through the Canadian Badlands’ unusual rock formations; delve into the region’s indigenous heritage; road trip along the Cowboy Trail; or visit Dinosaur Provincial Park. Alberta’s largest cities are Calgary, a 90-minute drive from Banff, and Edmonton, four hours from Jasper.

Canadian Rockies

Alberta’s most popular region includes Banff and Jasper national parks, drawing visitors from around the world to Lake Louise, the Icefields Parkway, and other scenic spots. The town of Canmore, 20 minutes’ drive from Banff’s south entrance, is a good place to get supplies. Waterton Lakes National Park borders Montana’s Glacier National Park south of Calgary and across the border in the U.S.

Southern Alberta & the Canadian Badlands

The gateway to the Rockies, Calgary is also a short drive from the Canadian Badlands, where you can explore unusual hoodoos and rocky canyons. The region around Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park, where Canada’s early dinosaurs were unearthed, has plenty to interest paleontology fans.

Central Alberta

The center of the province includes Alberta’s Cowboy Trail, where cattle ranches are still active and you can trace the area’s cowboy past. Visit Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site to learn about Alberta’s heritage as a fur trading hub, as well as its indigenous First Nations and Métis cultures.

Northern Alberta

Edmonton is the jumping-off point for both Jasper National Park and the province’s vast north, where remote Wood Buffalo National Park extends into the Northwest Territories. But you don’t have to go far to delve into the wild—just outside Edmonton, more than 1,000 bison roam the protected prairies of Elk Island National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Alberta, Canada, you generally need a permit or reservation to camp in provincial parks, national parks, and some other public lands. For provincial parks, you can reserve a campsite online through the Alberta Parks website. For national parks, such as Banff and Jasper, you will need to make reservations through the Parks Canada Reservation System. Some public lands and Crown lands may also require permits, so it's essential to check the specific regulations for the area you plan to camp in.

When camping in the Edmonton area, you can find a variety of campgrounds and parks, such as Elk Island National Park and William A. Sweny Campground, where you will need to make reservations or obtain permits as required.

Random camping, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed in Alberta on public lands, including Crown land and provincial forests, with some rules and guidelines to follow:

  1. Choose a site at least 1 km away from any designated or established campground, recreation area, or private land.
  2. Stay at least 100 meters away from any lakes, rivers, or streams to protect water quality and wildlife habitats.
  3. Only camp for a maximum of 14 days in the same location.
  4. Leave no trace; pack out all garbage and waste, and leave the site as you found it.
  5. Do not cut down trees or damage vegetation.
  6. Campfires are allowed in fire-safe containers or in rock fire rings. Check for fire bans and restrictions in the area before starting a fire.
  7. Use existing trails and roads to minimize damage to the environment.
  8. Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from them.
  9. Obey any posted signs and regulations.

It is important to note that random camping is not allowed in Alberta's provincial parks, national parks, or ecological reserves.

Yes, you can definitely camp in a tent in Alberta, Canada. The province offers a wide variety of camping opportunities, from well-maintained campgrounds in national and provincial parks to more remote backcountry sites. Some popular camping destinations in Alberta include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Elk Island National Park, as well as many provincial parks and recreation areas. Keep in mind that camping in designated campgrounds and obtaining the necessary permits is essential to protect the environment and abide by local regulations. Also, be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the season and location.

While some camping options in Alberta do require fees, there are also free camping sites available. These free sites are typically referred to as "random camping" or "dispersed camping" and are often located on Crown land or Public Land Use Zones (PLUZ). These sites usually do not have any amenities or facilities, so campers need to be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles. Keep in mind that regulations and restrictions may apply, so it's essential to research the area you plan to camp in before heading out.

Yes, random camping, also known as dispersed or backcountry camping, is allowed in Alberta on Crown land, which is public land managed by the government. It is important to note that random camping is not permitted in all areas, and you should always check local regulations and restrictions before setting up camp. Some popular locations for random camping in Alberta include the Kananaskis Country, the Bighorn Backcountry, and the Ghost Public Land Use Zone. When random camping, it is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment and wildlife.

To get a campsite in Alberta, you can follow these steps:

  1. Decide on the type of campground you want to stay at. Alberta offers a variety of campgrounds, including provincial parks, national parks, private campgrounds, and recreation areas.
  2. Research campgrounds in the area you want to visit. You can use websites like Alberta Parks and Parks Canada to find information about public campgrounds, or visit private campground websites for more options.
  3. Once you've selected a campground, check if reservations are required. Many campgrounds in Alberta accept reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For public campgrounds, you can make reservations through Reserve.AlbertaParks.ca or Parks Canada's reservation system. For private campgrounds, contact the campground directly to make a reservation.
  4. Before your trip, make sure you have the appropriate camping permits and passes. For example, you may need a National Park Pass if you're camping in a national park or a Provincial Park Pass for a provincial park. You can purchase these passes online or at park gates.
  5. Arrive at the campground, set up your campsite, and enjoy your stay in Alberta's beautiful outdoors!

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