Camping in Kananaskis, Alberta: Best Kananaskis Campgrounds 2025

The Kananaskis Region holds some of Alberta’s most dramatic mountains, and as a whole, the area is loaded with great camping and wild spaces. You can wild camp, find one of many private campsites, or seek out the public campgrounds—no matter which you choose, trails are prolific, as are clear, cold rivers that flow from the peaks to the prairie. Trout fishing is excellent and visitors love mountain biking, skiing and sightseeing in the open spaces, too. Banff is just to the north of the region as well, and Calgary is the largest city, just east of Kananaskis.

93% (200)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Kananaskis Region holds some of Alberta’s most dramatic mountains, and as a whole, the area is loaded with great camping and wild spaces. You can wild camp, find one of many private campsites, or seek out the public campgrounds—no matter which you choose, trails are prolific, as are clear, cold rivers that flow from the peaks to the prairie. Trout fishing is excellent and visitors love mountain biking, skiing and sightseeing in the open spaces, too. Banff is just to the north of the region as well, and Calgary is the largest city, just east of Kananaskis.

93% (200)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Vacation rentals in Bragg Creek

92%

(25)

2 sites · Lodging · Calgary, AB

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.

2. Rustic Riverside Camping

99%

(50)

5 sites · Lodging · Bragg Creek, AB

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.

3. Trappers Hill Lodges & Campground

96%

(25)

4 sites · Lodging · Bighorn No.8, AB

Trappers Hill Lodges & Campground, a unique off-grid glamping and camping adventure amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Canadian Rocky Mountains overlooking, the Ghost River, 1.5 hours from Canmore. Nested in the heart of picturesque land, it offers 16 cozy cabins and 6 spacious campsites, each offering a tranquil retreat for families, friend and couples alike. We are located 1 hour from Canmore, 45 minutes from Cochrane.

4. Stonewood Ranch

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · AB

Come and enjoy our beautiful ranch just 15 minutes from Calgary city limits! Our trailer is parked in the woods on our 153 acre property. The perfect place to relax in nature, meander through our 10km maze of trails, bird watch and pick unlimited amounts of wild raspberries. We are 35 minutes to downtown Calgary, 90 mins to Canmore and 10 minutes to Bragg Creek. Our trailer is fully equipped with bedding, kitchen supplies, water, heat, and bathroom services.

5. Onespot Crossing Campgrounds

84%

(76)

46 sites · Tents, RVs · Calgary, AB

Learn more about this land:OPEN ALL YEAR!Our campsite is the perfect city escape. We’re 40 minutes away from downtown Calgary but completely surrounded by nature.With over 50 acres, we offer very large, open, and spacious campsites to accommodate all. If you want a group gathering or a quiet secluded weekend, we are here to accommodate everyone and are very flexible with our customers' needs - feel free to message me with any questions. Picnic tables and firepits are provided in all of our unserviced natural sites. There is a toilet available.Onespot Campground is all-natural and has no power or water campground. Generators are permitted. Trailers need to fill water and dump trailer before arriving (we have no water and no dump site yet).Close to West Bragg Creek Provincial for hiking and mountain biking in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter.We are a family-friendly and pet-friendly campground. To ensure that we respect all guests, we have an 11 pm curfew. We look forward to hosting you!

6. Gardiner's Land

92%

(6)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Foothills County, AB

All are welcome even your horse can stay here lots of land to walk around geocaches close by

7. Willow Hill Lodge

100%

(13)

2 sites · Lodging · Calgary, AB

The property is located in the beautiful Alberta Foothills on a hillside overlooking the valleys, hills and with breathtaking views of the Alberta Rocky Mountains. There are 67 acres to explore with trails, a Wild West town boardwalk, a garden for munching and a multitude of local wildlife including deer, moose, eagles, great horned owls and even the odd black bear sighting. The are wild berries to pick in late July all over the property and firepits to sit around and watch a billion stars at night. This property is a small Bed and Breakfast with only 2 glamping units and one luxury suite. That equals no crowds! But don't fear, we are within a 1 to 25 minute drive of 5 different towns all with their own charm. The area is known for ranching, hiking, the film industry, great food and award winning distilleries and breweries.

8. Secluded Cliffside Paradise

95%

(11)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · AB

This secluded cliffside paradise overlooks the legendary Bow River known for its fly fishing and breathtaking views, we also have river access for kayaking. Only 12 min from Calgary, and quick access to the transit system, you'll want to extend your stay!

9. Wolf Corral

100%

(6)

1 site · RV · Invermere, BC

Property is close to Town of Invermere, a skip a a hop away from Tim Hortons. Supper close from where there is many opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, golfing,skiing at Panorama and Kootenay Park, paragliding, swimming, canoeing, boating, relaxation close bye,siteseeing hotsprings at Radium and Fairmont. Also there is a Airport which offers gliding and Helicopter rides.

10. Rocky View

97%

(33)

4 sites · RVs · Rocky View County, AB

Our small acreage is only a few meters outside of the city limits, where you can enjoy views of the mountains while relaxing under the trees. Experience the romance of the railroad as trains whistle by, and watch the farmers in the field across the road. We're close to Ralph Klein park, minutes to Stony Trail, Highway 22X, and Deerfoot Trail.

11. The Bunker

100%

(12)

1 site · RV · AB

A light-industrial hideaway in Calgary’s Bonnybrook district. 30 amp and water hook-up 4 km to the Calgary Stampede 600m from Calgary Bow River bike path 5.7 km to downtown 90 meters to bus stop 3.4km to light rail transit station 5.6 km to Calgary Zoo A unique RV experience awaits you with easy access to all of Calgary’s major attractions. Backing a medium or large trailer in during business hours can be a little daunting due to street parking and some traffic. Weekends and after 6 pm have never been an issue for me. The yard is secured with a locking gate for when you are our and about

12. Basecamp Ranch in Bragg Creek

1 site · Lodging · Foothills County, AB

**Experience the unique charm of a Pack Llama Hobby Ranch!** Welcome to our 10 acre property, home to a fun herd of trailblazing Llamas! Nestled in the forests of the Canadian Rockies Foothills, our spacious 2-storey, 1-Bedroom + Den Guest Suite occupies the entire southern wing of the house and has the rustic charm of the original 1940’s farm house. 25-min west of Calgary. 5-min from the stunning landscapes of Kananaskis Country. 1-hr from Canmore/Banff. Alpine Ranch Vibes: Stay on a small working hobby ranch with views of llamas and occasional wildlife. Watch young and rescue llamas train to become trail companions, and enjoy the chance of seeing curious woollies up close. The suite blends cozy ranch charm with alpine adventure, perfect for relaxing or inspiring your next outdoor trek. For more hands-on llama experiences, check out “Basecamp Ranch” on social media. Outdoor Space: Private entrance, fenced yard, covered deck, and propane fireplace make for a perfect escape. There’s a covered area for bikes and gear, and an outdoor hose (warmer months only) for cleaning off muddy boots or pets. Two dedicated parking spots are available—with space for a trailer if needed. Enjoy the wood-burning fire pit and hot tub just outside your yard. Entrance & Living Area: A spacious entryway includes a mini foosball table, towels, games, and more. The open living space features a smart TV with Netflix, comfy seating, a dining bar, and access to a balcony overlooking the llamas. Kitchenette: Includes a 2-burner cooktop, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and essentials like utensils, pots, coffee, tea, toaster, and kettle. Bathroom: Full bath with shower, towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a hairdryer. Work Station: High-speed Starlink WiFi and a desk make remote work easy. Sleeping Arrangements: One queen bed in the main bedroom and another in the open den. Bragg Creek: A gateway to outdoor adventure—hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, and more. Explore the historic village and its unique local shops. Note: Property borders the highway—expect some road noise and occasional farm activity, especially in summer.

13. Paradise on the Ridge

75%

(4)

1 site · Tent, RV · Rocky View County, AB

Escape to nature at this private, peaceful campsite overlooking the stunning Bow River with breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy world-class fly fishing right outside your tent or trailer, scenic hikes along the riverbank, and cozy evenings around the campfire. Perfect for those looking to unwind, explore, and reconnect with the outdoors and countryside. There is 1 dog on the property. She is very friendly and plays well with other dogs. Very social.

Camper favorites in and near Kananaskis

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Willow Hill Lodge

100%

(13)

2 sites · Lodging · Calgary, AB

The property is located in the beautiful Alberta Foothills on a hillside overlooking the valleys, hills and with breathtaking views of the Alberta Rocky Mountains. There are 67 acres to explore with trails, a Wild West town boardwalk, a garden for munching and a multitude of local wildlife including deer, moose, eagles, great horned owls and even the odd black bear sighting. The are wild berries to pick in late July all over the property and firepits to sit around and watch a billion stars at night. This property is a small Bed and Breakfast with only 2 glamping units and one luxury suite. That equals no crowds! But don't fear, we are within a 1 to 25 minute drive of 5 different towns all with their own charm. The area is known for ranching, hiking, the film industry, great food and award winning distilleries and breweries.

Secluded Cliffside Paradise

95%

(11)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · AB

This secluded cliffside paradise overlooks the legendary Bow River known for its fly fishing and breathtaking views, we also have river access for kayaking. Only 12 min from Calgary, and quick access to the transit system, you'll want to extend your stay!

Wolf Corral

100%

(6)

1 site · RV · Invermere, BC

Property is close to Town of Invermere, a skip a a hop away from Tim Hortons. Supper close from where there is many opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, golfing,skiing at Panorama and Kootenay Park, paragliding, swimming, canoeing, boating, relaxation close bye,siteseeing hotsprings at Radium and Fairmont. Also there is a Airport which offers gliding and Helicopter rides.

Rocky View

97%

(33)

4 sites · RVs · Rocky View County, AB

Our small acreage is only a few meters outside of the city limits, where you can enjoy views of the mountains while relaxing under the trees. Experience the romance of the railroad as trains whistle by, and watch the farmers in the field across the road. We're close to Ralph Klein park, minutes to Stony Trail, Highway 22X, and Deerfoot Trail.

The Bunker

100%

(12)

1 site · RV · AB

A light-industrial hideaway in Calgary’s Bonnybrook district. 30 amp and water hook-up 4 km to the Calgary Stampede 600m from Calgary Bow River bike path 5.7 km to downtown 90 meters to bus stop 3.4km to light rail transit station 5.6 km to Calgary Zoo A unique RV experience awaits you with easy access to all of Calgary’s major attractions. Backing a medium or large trailer in during business hours can be a little daunting due to street parking and some traffic. Weekends and after 6 pm have never been an issue for me. The yard is secured with a locking gate for when you are our and about

Basecamp Ranch in Bragg Creek

1 site · Lodging · Foothills County, AB

**Experience the unique charm of a Pack Llama Hobby Ranch!** Welcome to our 10 acre property, home to a fun herd of trailblazing Llamas! Nestled in the forests of the Canadian Rockies Foothills, our spacious 2-storey, 1-Bedroom + Den Guest Suite occupies the entire southern wing of the house and has the rustic charm of the original 1940’s farm house. 25-min west of Calgary. 5-min from the stunning landscapes of Kananaskis Country. 1-hr from Canmore/Banff. Alpine Ranch Vibes: Stay on a small working hobby ranch with views of llamas and occasional wildlife. Watch young and rescue llamas train to become trail companions, and enjoy the chance of seeing curious woollies up close. The suite blends cozy ranch charm with alpine adventure, perfect for relaxing or inspiring your next outdoor trek. For more hands-on llama experiences, check out “Basecamp Ranch” on social media. Outdoor Space: Private entrance, fenced yard, covered deck, and propane fireplace make for a perfect escape. There’s a covered area for bikes and gear, and an outdoor hose (warmer months only) for cleaning off muddy boots or pets. Two dedicated parking spots are available—with space for a trailer if needed. Enjoy the wood-burning fire pit and hot tub just outside your yard. Entrance & Living Area: A spacious entryway includes a mini foosball table, towels, games, and more. The open living space features a smart TV with Netflix, comfy seating, a dining bar, and access to a balcony overlooking the llamas. Kitchenette: Includes a 2-burner cooktop, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and essentials like utensils, pots, coffee, tea, toaster, and kettle. Bathroom: Full bath with shower, towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a hairdryer. Work Station: High-speed Starlink WiFi and a desk make remote work easy. Sleeping Arrangements: One queen bed in the main bedroom and another in the open den. Bragg Creek: A gateway to outdoor adventure—hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, and more. Explore the historic village and its unique local shops. Note: Property borders the highway—expect some road noise and occasional farm activity, especially in summer.

Paradise on the Ridge

75%

(4)

1 site · Tent, RV · Rocky View County, AB

Escape to nature at this private, peaceful campsite overlooking the stunning Bow River with breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy world-class fly fishing right outside your tent or trailer, scenic hikes along the riverbank, and cozy evenings around the campfire. Perfect for those looking to unwind, explore, and reconnect with the outdoors and countryside. There is 1 dog on the property. She is very friendly and plays well with other dogs. Very social.

Stories from the community

E

Emilie

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Secluded Cliffside Paradise

We had a wonderful stay at Paradise on the Ridge! The views are incredible, the property is lovely and our hosts were very welcoming. Being able to let our dogs explore freely was the cherry on top that really made this a special stay. 5 stars!!

Д

Диана

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Vacation rentals in Bragg Creek

We booked this cabin through HipCamp and were left with rather mixed impressions. The cabin itself is very cozy, styled like a hunting lodge, with a true “retro” atmosphere. Inside everything is simple but tasteful — it really feels like a little corner of nature where you can disconnect from everyday life. We genuinely enjoyed this authenticity and sense of peace. Unfortunately, at the very end of our stay, a situation occurred that spoiled the overall impression. As we were getting ready to leave, the hosts let out their large dog. The animal behaved quite aggressively, which felt unsafe — especially since we had our 4-month-old baby with us. We really appreciated the atmosphere of this place, but it would be important for the hosts to consider this issue with pets, as guest safety matters a lot. Overall, the place has great potential for a wonderful stay, and we sincerely hope this aspect will be addressed.

D

Daniel

September 2025

33 ft fifth wheel

3 nights at Wolf Corral

Great, level parking site in driveway. Host had electric and water hookups conveniently close by. Ullu was at work when we arrived but came as soon as we called to have car moved that was parked in spot. Great location to visit Kootenay and Canal Flats.

Aaron

September 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Secluded Cliffside Paradise

Beautiful property with beautiful views! It’s hard to believe you’re only a few minutes from the city. The sunsets by the fire are incredible! I would recommend, because the property is south facing, that you may want to plan your spot based on how much sun you want. Lots of cows, deer, pocket gophers, and ground squirrels to spot while you relax in the peace and quiet.

Perfect for car campers, RV-ers, and tenters alike

C

Casper

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Onespot Crossing Campgrounds

It was such a beautiful spot. We tented it for one night by the river. Everything was pretty wet but we thought it was worth it for the view and sounds of the river. We had our dogs with us who loved being able to play in the water. Just such a perfect place. We wish we could have stayed longer. Definitely coming back for our river spot again if we can.

S

Sarah

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Onespot Crossing Campgrounds

I love this campground 10/10 would recommend. I will admit that I was nervous to pick this spot after reading some of the reviews, however we needed a spot for the long weekend that was close to the city since I was hosting a nature ceremony so we needed somewhere that could accommodate lots of guests not too far. They have quite a lot of land out there with lots of cool things to explore. The moment we drove in we seen horses and bison! 🦬 (In a pen now, they no longer just wander) These man at the check in trailer was very friendly and gave us lots of wood for good price. There was lots of interesting sights on the property, a modified bus, some farm equipment and playground structures and what looked like an indigenous market area, I suppose to some it might look like junk however we all thought it was cool. They have several different sections-a glamping area with domes, some tipis, trailer area and tenting area. This is a perfect spot if you are coming with a large group. Access to the river (perfect for hot summer days, thank god cuz it was so hot when we were there) And this place is close enough to Bragg Creek you can run to town if u need anything and you will still get cell service here. 👌 And the outhouses weren't to bad when we went.

C

Claudio

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secluded Cliffside Paradise

Lovely, large and secluded spot overlooking the Bow River just minutes outside of Calgary city limits. We were treated to eye level views of hawks and eagles in action, pelicans closer to the water and amazing sunsets.

N

Nicole

September 2025

4 nights at Rustic Riverside Camping

We absolutely loved our stay! The bed is so comfortable, they provided extra blankets and towels. The entire campsite had everything you needed from a stove, lighters, water, a shower, etc. The owner went above and beyond when we had some things taken but everything was promptly returned. It’s secluded and quiet and absolutely beautiful!

D

Dawn

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Onespot Crossing Campgrounds

What a beautiful place!! Just what my soul needed this weekend ❤️ we did ceremony and spent time as a family:) I would definitely recommend this place to all my friends and family!!

Roman

August 2025

35 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to Wolf Corral

Everything was fine :) Thanks for hosting us! P.S. when we arrived it was a little bit tricky to contact Ullu, but we meet her in person

E

Erin

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Trappers Hill Lodges & Campground

We had a great time Glamping here with our two little boys! It was the perfect way to camp in comfort (and warmth) with them. The cabins/tents and bathrooms were clean and well maintained. There was access to running water (non-potable) for dishes. The sauna was brand new and a definite touch of luxury. The staff were so friendly and approachable.

M

Marty

August 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at The Bunker

Great close-in location. Secure. No nearby residents, just businesses. Cozy outdoor area outside camper. Host is flexible, easy to access. Transit lines and bike trail nearby. Will stay again.

M

Marty

August 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at The Bunker

Amazingly quiet, but for low level industrial white noise. Excellent access to bike Bow River Trail, all while leaving your vehicle locked behind camp gate. Felt safe enough for repeat stays. No hassles. Water and 30 amp a real plus!

M

Marty

August 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Rocky View

Beautiful and large area for camp. Sunrise and sunset were a plus. Easy access and close to town. Stephanie also packaged up some fresh organic basil, tomatoes and kale for my morning departure. Will stay again!

D

Davis

August 2025

1 night at Willow Hill Lodge

It is so nice and peaceful. We slept in the little wagon and it was way my comfortable than I though it would be and Cathy was an amazing host who gave us a delicious breakfast in bed. Super cool must try experience.

M

Marty

August 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at The Bunker

This was a great urban spot. Fenced with a locked gate. Light urban noise, no highway or train horns. Nice spot for outside seating and fire pit and 30A power was a real plus. Will return again.

R

RICK

August 2025

50 ft Class A

7 nights at The Bunker

Saying you're staying in a "light industrial area" is both true and not. This is a little oasis and so very comfortable. We actually wanted to stay longer but it was already booked after us. Nice fire pit, a few bunny rabbits hopping around, and no problems at all. It feels secluded, the neighbors are quiet (ok, except maybe for the concrete plant across the way, but honestly it felt like white noise). I was thinking around the 3rd day that this would make for a great permanent living space. So yup, it's worth it. Oh yea, it's right in the middle of freaking Calgary. LOL!

j

justin

August 2025

1 night at Vacation rentals in Bragg Creek

Awesome cozy quiet place! Had everything you needed!

M

Martin

August 2025

33 ft travel trailer

8 nights at Gardiner's Land

Very peaceful environment. They were accommodating of my needs and I had a great stay!!

M

Marilyn

August 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Rocky View

Beautiful spot with friendly host. So close to Calgary but you’d never know.

Top camping destinations

Bow Valley Provincial Park

119 campgrounds

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Banff Park Museum National Historic Site

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

129 campgrounds

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Kananaskis guide

Where to go

Hit the Slopes

Two ski areas offer options for steep mountain terrain. Nakiska and Fortress Mountain are both great mountains, each having six lifts open to the public. While Banff draws skiers from around the world, these smaller ski areas are often overlooked. If you enjoy low traffic and great powder, consider taking a ski vacation to Kananaskis Country. Nakiska is less than an hour from Calgary and was an Olympic ski site. Fortress Mountain has 30 kilometres of slopes with some challenging terrain.

Spray Lakes Reservoir

As the largest lake in Kananaskis, the long shoreline offers plenty of space for boaters. Camping is available on the lake and the water is popular for summer fishing, water skiing and swimming. The reservoir has large lake trout, whitefish and plenty of rainbow trout to pursue. Prevailing winds do limit water skiing to the early morning hours but they do make for excellent windsurfing. The region doesn’t have many large bodies of water and this is one unique lake that is surrounded by mountains.

Hike the Trails

If there’s one thing that Kananaskis offers, it’s a never-ending network of trails. Hiking and biking are both popular and there are some serious peaks to pursue on foot. Smutwood Peak is one of those magical looking mountains that requires some scrambling to reach the summit. It has several high lakes with turquoise waters sitting picturesquely below a jagged mountain. Read’s Tower and Tent Ridge a few more options with incredible scenery.

Bow Valley Provincial Park

This park might be the pinnacle of any trip to Kananaskis Country. The Bow and Kananaskis Rivers meet in the park which is just under an hour from Calgary. Paddling and fishing on the Bow River are both highlights for visitors. Extensive hiking trails are perfect for day trips or overnight backcountry trips. Test your legs against the steep terrain and don’t forget a camera for the incredible vistas. This is grizzly country and visitors should carry bear spray when navigating the park.

When to go

Summer is really the best time for hikers wanting to climb the peaks and reach the backcountry on foot. July and August specifically are ideal for penetrating the backcountry. September is another great month with changing colors and cooler night temperatures. October can be idyllic but also can experience early winter storms. Winter itself is a nice time to visit for skiers and snowsport enthusiasts. The primary highways remain open but the backroads are often closed or difficult to navigate.