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The best camping near Waterton Lakes National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Waterton Lakes National Park adventure.

One of Alberta’s most biodiverse spots is also home to the deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies.  

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Community favorites near Waterton Lakes National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Waterton Lakes National Park

95%
(136)

Rocky Mountains Camping

4 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres ¡ AB
from 
CA$48
 / night
100%
(33)

Camping with Mountain Views

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ AB
With amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, this west facing spot allows for some beautiful sunsets. Sightings of deer and moose are very typical along with many birds including hawks, eagles and even a chance to see some sand hill cranes. Just up the hill is the Pine Ridge lookout which provide views towards Waterton Park and the legendary Chief Mountain.Learn more about this land:This camping spot has amazing mountain views about 15 minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park.  The prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park. Clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, rainbow-coloured streams, colourful rocks and mountain vistas await hikers and sightseers. With an exceptional diversity of wildlife and wildflowers and a cozy little waterfront town to serve as a home base, Waterton packs a big natural punch into a relatively small and accessible area.Currently, this is a simple, basic spot to camp and enjoy the views.There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife (moose, deer, birds). No amenities as of now, but we are looking to add more soon.  Due to fire restrictions currently in place, only propane-type devices can be used at this time.Pets are welcome.
from 
CA$35
 / night
95%
(49)

Wildflower Campground

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents2 acres ¡ AB
Learn more about this land:Our humble campsite includes a private area on our small property at the foot of the mountains.We have one large fire pit, a large table for gatherings, and an outhouse. We also have fresh spring water and first aid supplies available if needed.We are family-friendly and pet-friendly!We are only 30 minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park. The park is internationally known as one of the most beautiful destinations in the Canadian Rockies. And for good reason. Waterton is where the rolling prairies of Alberta meet the stunning Rocky Mountains and is filled with diverse wildlife, dozens of different wildflowers and some of the best hiking in North America. The town of Waterton Lakes National Park is the perfect destination if you're looking for adventure, fun and relaxation no matter what season it may be.Come and enjoy the beautiful view we’ve called home for so long! Any other questions and we are happy to help or accommodate as we are able.
from 
CA$40
 / night

The best camping near Waterton Lakes National Park guide

Overview

About

To see a rainbow arc across Waterton Lakes after a late afternoon thunderstorm is to witness national park perfection. With red rock canyons, prairie wildflowers, and even a grizzly bear from afar, Waterton Lakes is a park of surprises. Established in 1932 as the first International Peace Park along with its U.S. neighbour Glacier National Park in Montana, Waterton Lakes is only separated from the U.S. park by the international border. Skywatchers and photographers take note: Waterton is an officially designated Dark Sky Park due to its remote location, far from sources of light pollution. Another interesting tidbit: the town’s layout and architecture must conform to either Swiss village or English Tudor (the Prince of Wales Hotel) design guidelines. Boat tours, golf, high tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel, and cycling are all popular, while frontcountry and backcountry camping are available.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for families: The frontcountry Waterton Townsite Campground has most campground amenities, including showers, and excellent access to reliable wind for kiteboarding and windsurfing (winter-weight neoprene wetsuits are required).
  • Best for backcountry bliss: Only 24 vehicles are allowed at the “unimproved” Belly Creek Campground, and all water must be taken in advance.
  • Best for wild nature: Of the 10 backcountry sites, Twin Lakes and Lone Lakes are some of the most remote.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Parks Canada opens campground reservations for the Waterton Townsite Campground in early January, both online and by phone. They’re available for dates between May and mid-October, and reserving a site in advance is highly encouraged to guarantee your spot. Canadian holiday weekends can be crowded, though not nearly as much as in Banff or Jasper.
  2. Campsite permits and reservations are required for all campsites and can be picked up at the Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre.

When to go

Waterton is often visited in conjunction with Glacier National Park in Montana and busiest in July and August, when subalpine wildflowers are in bloom. Since the Waterton townsite is located within the park, it’s open year-round with even a winter campground for hardy campers. High alpine trails are often snow-covered until mid-July, but lower elevation trails are suitable for skiing and snowshoeing in winter when the park is at its quietest. Late spring is a great time to see waterfalls, and autumn brings elk herds down from the high country. Regardless of the month, Waterton is a windy place. Temperature and air pressure differences between high alpine summits and prairies to the east can send winds roaring.

Know before you go

  • Proof of citizenship ID is required for everyone crossing the international border into Canada. 
  • All overnight visitors must purchase and display an annual park pass.
  • Watch for wildlife along all sections of the park roads, especially at night. Have bear spray and know how to use it.
  • Permitted backcountry camping is allowed in designated areas.
  • Camping is only allowed at designated sites, and fires are only allowed in some areas.
  • All food and toiletries must be used in designated areas and stored in wildlife-proof lockers. Pack out all food and garbage.
  • Cell service and wifi are unreliable in most of the backcountry.

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