Kananaskis is a camper’s paradise. Mountain peaks, cascading streams, shimmering lakes, and sprawling forests fill our beloved backcountry with all the elements that create an iconic camping experience. Whether you’re craving an epic adventure, the luxury glamping type, or yearning for an authentic wilderness experience, this is your ultimate guide to camping in Kananaskis Country.

Note: all visitors parking in Kananaskis Country must have a valid Kananaskis Conservation Pass. This is separate from any campsite or other bookings.

Camping Season

You can camp in Kananaskis year-round (even winter camping!), but peak camping season is in the summer and fall. We recommended visiting between June and October. During the summer, trails are without seasonal closures, alpine lakes defrost for paddling and fishing, and the area fills with quintessential camping experiences. Come fall, a golden tapestry of larch trees and crunching leaves fill the valley, creating the ultimate crisp air campfire backdrop. 

Whichever season, getting to Kananaskis is an easy, scenic journey – whether you’re driving out yourself, flying into Calgary and renting a car, or catching a lift with local transportation. In fact, the journey to Kananaskis is an integral part of the experience, giving you a sneak peek of our alpine paradise as you journey along the winding highways of the rocky mountains.

Types of Camping

Kananaskis is home to several types of camping, including backcountry camping, glamping, and serviced campsites. When it comes to finding a spot, the options are as vast as the mountain vistas that will surround you – albeit potentially already booked, so try to do so in advance! Here’s all you need to know about finding a campsite, where you can and can’t pitch a tent, and the best-serviced and RV-ready campsites in Kananaskis.

Vehicle Accessed Campsites

Price: $8.00 – $31.00 per night

There are two main types of vehicle-accessed campsites in Kananaskis: serviced, and first-come-first-serve. Vehicle-accessed campsites are the most popular option for camping in Kananaskis, which means that sites can get booked up quickly. If possible, make your reservation well in advance – they can be made up to 90 days prior to your arrival date. Of course, you can always head out bright and early and try your luck at scoring a first-come-first-serve site. 

Camping in vehicle-access campgrounds ranges from all hook-ups to no services. For those camping in an RV or trailer, serviced campsites provide all the necessary hook-ups, including power, water, and sewer connections. These sites are ideal for campers who require these amenities for their RV or trailer. More information on vehicle-accessed campsites and bookings can be found at AlbertaParks.ca.

Backcountry Camping

Price: Free – $12.00

Backpacking in Kananaskis is the ultimate escape, letting you retreat into the untouched forests that span its soaring mountains and sprawling valleys. As per the government of Alberta, backcountry camping is classified as that which involves travelling by foot, horse, or boat for at least 1km into the backcountry. Several sites are classified as equestrian or biking campsites, creating the perfect opportunity to incorporate an overnight stay into your adventure off the beaten path. In Kananaskis, there are two main types of backcountry campgrounds: random backcountry campgrounds and designated backcountry campgrounds. 

Booking a $12.00 per person, per night permit to use backcountry campgrounds can be done at AlbertaParks.ca, whereas random backcountry camping allows you to camp without a booking in certain areas as long as you follow the applicable guidelines. 

Guided Backpacking

Price: Pricing Varies

If you’re new to camping (backcountry or otherwise) or simply seeking a more guided experience, Boundary Ranch is right up your alley. Their history as explorers in the Kananaskis region stretches back generations, making a pack trip with Boundary Ranch a seamless adventure with the most knowledgeable guides. Visitors can choose from two-day sampler pack trips or a multiple-day immersion in a bygone way of life.

Tips

Backcountry camping and preparation are best buds. Even if you’re planning on glamping, there are still steps that need to be taken to prepare for camping in Kananaskis. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and successful adventure:

Know Before You Go: Check the weather as well as any fire ban and wildlife advisories. 

Safety First: Take all the proper precautions to ensure your safety. Bring bear spray, alert someone of your timeframes and whereabouts, and respect your limits. 

Leave No Trace: Respect the land, and leave no trace of your travels. Use provided campsites, bring waste with you, and don’t remove anything from the wilderness.

K-Country Etiquette: Follow the Government of Alberta’s Backcountry Etiquette Guide.

For more information on things to do while camping in Kananaskis, check out our other blogs! In the meantime, book your campsite, pack your bags, and we’ll meet you by the campfire!