The best camping near Wood Buffalo National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site straddles the Northern Alberta–Northwest Territories border with a number of unique geographical features. Here you’ll find salt plains, three major rivers (Athabasca River, Peace River, and Birch River) that converge to form the Peace-Athabasca Delta, millions of birds (including whooping cranes), swimmable sinkholes, and boreal forestlands. As the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserve, the stargazing is incredible, and you may well observe the aurora borealis when you visit. As well as fishing, hiking, and kayaking, Wood Buffalo also features historical and cultural sites, as well as interpretive experiences.

• Best for families: Pine Lake Campground has full facilities, a day-use area, and a playground.
• Best for hikers: The Sweetgrass backcountry campsite leads to epic trails.
• Best for big groups: Kettle Point Group Camp has a large log shelter, a fire circle, facilities.

1. Because of the park’s remote location, it tends to be less busy than other Alberta parks. This is helpful given that most sites (aside from the Pine Lakes Cabins) run on a first-come, first-served basis. This is fairly rare for Canadian national parks.
2. Backcountry camping is allowed anywhere within the park with a permit, and you can just turn up with your tent to do so (no reservation required).

Camping season runs from May to October, and if you’re looking to see the northern lights, your best chance is in late August and September, when nights are longer. If you’re looking for warmer weather, keep in mind how far north this location is, and plan to visit in July when temperatures are upwards of 20° C.

• There are no RV hookups in Wood Buffalo National Park, but there are generously sized pull-through sites for RVs.
• Two sites at the Pine Lake Campground are wheelchair accessible. Kettle Point Group Camp is accessible, and you can find accessible day-use areas throughout the park.
• Cell service is patchy if available at all. Bring maps, a compass, and GPS, especially if planning a big hike.
• Be aware that black bears, moose, lynx, and bison live in the park. Educate yourself on how to have safe wildlife viewing experiences.