You do not need to drive much distance to find beautiful, scenic, or unique campsites around Calgary. To the west of Calgary, the highways are dotted with numerous campsites and cabin options until you hit Banff National Park. You can also head southwest from Calgary to find many Provincial Parks nestles in the foothills. It seems no matter where you camp around Calgary, be it east, west, north, or south, you can find amazing views of all sorts, opportunities for mountain or river adventures, and 100s of km worth of hiking and biking trails.
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**This article mostly mentions campgrounds east (within Alberta) and south of Calgary. Due to the proximity of major tourist attractions including Badlands, and the Canadian Rockies, there are plenty of options to camp within three hours of Calgary. We have tried to select a few to provide a range of options. **
Calaway Park Campground
On the western outskirts of Calgary is the famous Calaway Park amusement grounds. If you’re coming to Calgary specifically for Calaway Park, are just stopping in on your way to the mountains, or if you’re just looking for a quick escape out of Calgary, then Calaway’s Campground is a wonderful spot. You can keep children fully entertained at Calaway, and ride the thrills rides yourself. The park offers both RV/trailer and tent camping, as well as stay and play packages.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 245033 Range Rd 33, Calgary
Phone: (403) 240-3822
Camping season: weekends only May 21 – June 14; Daily June 18 – September 6
Mountain View Calgary Camping
With 180 full-service RV sites, Mountain View campground is a perfect retreat for those looking for a quick escape. The campground is within Calgary city limits and boasts a ton of amenities: firewood for sale, showers, a fully stocked store, 18-hole mini golf, laundry, and a dump site. The location is convenient, being just off of Highway 1, and a short drive away from the Lakeside Golf Club. Nestle yourself pond-side, in the heart of Alberta’s farm and ranch lands, and enjoy western Rocky Mountain views on clear summer days.
Type of camping: RV
Address: 244024 Range Rd. 284, Calgary
Phone: (403) 293-6640
Camping season: year-round
Nature’s Hideaway Family Campground
Hide out for the weekend under the banks of the Highwood River, a small creek running through the Okotoks area. The quiet and secluded Nature’s Hideaway is perfect for the trailer, RV, or tent, as they offer both serviced and non serviced sites. The slow current of the Highwood River makes it a perfect place for a lazy float on a hot summer day, and the towering Poplars all around make for just the right amount of shade. You’ll have access to a private beach, playground, and a horseshoe pit.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 144192 2253 Dr. E, De Winton (Calgary)
Phone: 403-938-8185
Sundance Lodges
Whether you prefer to call it glamping or comfort camping, the tipis and trapper’s tents at Sundance Lodges are probably what you’re searching for in a camping trip. The warm, cozy, and comfortable tents and tipis all contain beds or cots and can accommodate different numbers of people. The additional tent and trailer sites are all well-treed with a good level of privacy and have their own cooking grills and picnic tables. The campground is in the heart of Kananaskis country, where you can enjoy mountain or foothill hikes, peaceful and scenic views, and crystal-clear lakes.
Type of camping: tipis, trappers’ tents, RV, or tent
Address: #2 Sundance Rd Hwy 40, Kananaskis
Phone: (403) 591-7122
Camping season: June 11 – September 11 (tipis); May 14 – September 26 (all other sites)
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
The Peter Lougheed PP is located in Kananaskis country, and contains over 160 well-treed, serviced, and non serviced sites. This is a perfect place for both tents and trailers, with amenities like showers, washrooms, and firepits at each site. There are numerous trails to explore in the area, with some for all different ability levels. You can take a day hike into the backcountry or stick to the front-country trails and enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk amongst mountains, creeks, rivers, and hills.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Kananaskis Country
(877) 537-2757 / Book online
Camping season: May 13 – October 11
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Sibbald Lake Provincial Recreational Area
The Sibbald Lake PRA and Campground are located east of Canmore and are home to over 100 non serviced sites for tents and RVs.
The peaceful lake has a hand launch for non powered boats likes canoes and kayaks, and fishing is permitted.
This is a great campsite for anyone who likes to hike, go for jogs, or horseback ride, as there are many trails in the area suitable for front country or back country hiking and equestrian use. And if you’re in the mood for a more relaxing camping experience, you can enjoy your campsite’s firepit, the starry skies, and the quiet mountain surroundings.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 7116 AB-68, Bragg Creek
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online
Camping season: April 30 – October 11
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Elbow River Provincial Recreational Area
A short drive southwest of Calgary will bring you to the beautiful Bragg Creek area and the Elbow River PRA. The 100 sites in the park are first-come first-served, but allow room for tents and trailers, and some even back right on to the Elbow River. The camping is more rustic, but the scenery is picturesque, and full of opportunities for outdoor exploration. The PRA is home to an extensive trail system, with hikes available for all different abilities, as well as trails exclusive to mountain bikers.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Bragg Creek
First-come first-served
Camping season: May 14 – September 20
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Banff National Park
Canada’s most famous National Park offers plenty of camping options at Waterfowl Lakes, Silverhorn Creek, Rampart Creek, Mosquito Creek, Lake Louise, Protection Mountain, Castle Mountain, Johnston Canyon, Two Jack Lakeside and Tunel Mountain.
The Tunnel Mountain Village campgrounds offer a huge variety of camping for all sorts of adventurers- remain rustic in a tent or trailer or upgrade your experience to a comfort tent – “oTENTik” (comfort tents exclusive to Canada’s National Parks). These comfort tents come fully furnished and take most of the set-up work involved in camping out, so you can spend more time enjoying the sites and sounds of Tunnel Mountain.
The Two Jack Lakeside park also offers the oTENTiks (10 of them), as well as a small number of tent and trailer sites. Your sites are located on the gorgeous shores of Two Jack Lake, but you’re also a short drive from Lake Minnewanka and the Banff townsite. Right along the Bow Valley Parkway, you can find the small and scenic Johnston Canyon camping spot. This area within the Banff National Park offers 132 tent or trailer sites with amenities like washrooms and showers. The Lake Louise campground located in the heart of Lake Louise offers access to everything the Village, the Lake and the resort offers.
Type of camping: RV, tent, or cabin/ “oTENTik” (comfort tents exclusive to Canada’s National Parks)
Various Locations across Banff National Park
1-877-737-3783 / Book online
Camping season: May to October
Sheep River Provincial Park
The Sheep River Provincial Park is west of Calgary in Kananaskis. The Kananaskis area is an outdoors-person’s paradise, where you can fish, hike, explore waterfalls, or go for a drive further into the Rockies. And at the Sandy McNabb campground which lies next to the Sheep River, you can bring a tent or trailer (power sites available) and spend the night under the stars. The campground also features a playground, washrooms, showers, and firepits.
If you are staying for long, venture into Turner Valley, take a tour of Turner Valley Gas Plant National and Provincial Historic Site and get award-winning German Beer (Best Bavarian-Style Hefeweisse title in the 2020 World Beer Awards) from Brauerei Fahr.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Via Hwy. 546 west of Turner Valley
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online
Camping season: April 30 – October 11
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Bow River’s Edge Campground
This RV getaway campground offers all the regular RV and trailer amenities to make your Bow River stay as comfortable as possible. You’ll have access to full power, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, and washrooms. In the park, you can entertain your family with a bocce ball or the playground, or by taking a walk along the riverside.
While you are in Cochrane, learn the history of the town at Historic Cochrane Ranche Site, visit Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park to hike and bike endless lands, explore Big Hill Springs Provincial Park and tour Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary.
And outside the park, you’re just a short drive from Kananaskis Country, Canmore, Banff, and Calgary.
Type of camping: RV
Address: 900 Griffin Rd. E, Cochrane
Phone: (877) 932-4675
Camping season: April 1 – October 31
Burnt Timber Provincial Recreation Area
This quiet campground at the foot of the Rockies is a perfect escape from the city, or just from staying at home for another weekend. With an adorable creek running right through the campground, you’re able to go for a soak or a float on a hot day and enjoy starry skies at night.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Via Forestry Trunk Rd., West of Cochrane
First-come first-served; Phone: 587-830-2198
Camping season: June 1 – September 9
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Ghost Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area
The Bow River comes into Calgary from the West and is controlled by the Ghost Reservoir. The reservoir serves as a massive lake that is home to winter and summer sports, a Provincial Park, and a boat launch. The area has 80 non serviced sites which are first-come first-served, but which are great for tents and trailers. This is also a stellar spot for canoers and kayakers, with the Bow River just beyond the lake. Be sure to check water levels before you head out on to the lake or river- they can vary greatly month to month.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Ghost Reservoir Campground, Via the Bow Valley Tr.
First-come first-served (Phone: 403-851-0766)
Camping season: June 1 – October 14
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Dawson Equestrian Campground/Dawson PRA
What makes it an ‘equestrian campground?’ While campers of all kinds are welcome at the Dawson Campground, there are a few sites reserved specifically for those with horses (accommodated with hitching rails and ample trailer space). The Dawson PRA is home to scenic foothill and mountain trails that can be hiked, biked, or ridden on horseback. These equestrian trails also make it a popular winter camping spot, and the winter camp sites are only $26/night.
Type of camping: RV or tent; equestrian
Address: 7129 Twp. Rd 241A, Kananaskis
First-come-first-served (Phone: 403-673-2163)
Camping season: June 1 – December 31
Riverbend Campground
This scenic riverside campground is a close drive from both Calgary and Okotoks but is known for its views. From your campsite and from the park you can expect stellar rocky mountain and ranch land views. You’ll be on the smaller banks of the Sheep River which look out onto the other side’s steep banks. On-site amenities include washrooms, a chapel, and laundry, as well as a mini golf course. And for a bit more adventure, you can paddle the river on a rented boat, or travel riverside on a hike.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 48033 370 Ave. E, Okotoks
(866) 938-2017 (toll free); (403) 938-2017 (Local)
Camping season: year-round
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Schott’s Lake RV & Guest Ranch Inc.
If you want to enjoy the foothills of the Canadian Rockies and enjoy the most adventurous activities without the crowds, think Sundre! The town is the gateway to whitewater rafting, Wildhorse viewing and everything else this small-town Alberta offers. Schott’s Lake RV & Guest Ranch Inc. will get you to enjoy the Sundre area to its fullest and you can basic tents to luxury camping. There is also a restaurant on-site.
Type of camping: RV, tent, cabins
Address: 33037 Range Rd 71, Mountainview County; 1-403-638-4464
Camping season: May 15 to October 15 for campgrounds, year-round for cabins.
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Wyndham-Carseland Provincial Park
This park is close to the south eastern edge of Calgary, making it a short drive for those in south Calgary via Hwy. 22X. Comfort tents are located on the banks of the Bow River, and the remaining campsites (over 150 of them) stretch along the same banks. The large park has multiple washrooms throughout, two playgrounds and a concession in the Day Use Area.
Type of camping: RV, tent, or comfort tent
Address: Hwy. 24, Carseland
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online
Camping season: April 23 – October 11
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Good Knights Medieval Encampment
For a truly unique glamping experience, head to The Encampment! Seven lavish Medieval tents will transport you through time – even providing period costumes and a warm cloak to wear so you can embrace the theme. There’s even a yurt for larger families to stay in. Reserve your stay early as they can book up fast for the season. Keeping up with the theme you can learn sword-fighting, long-bow archery, other period workshops, royal feasts and participate innature walks.
Type of camping: comfort tent
Address:235035 Township Rd 310, Three Hills
Camping season: May-September
George Lane Memorial Park and Campground
Located near High River, and on the Highwood River, this campground and park is hidden within the large trees, and offers all the basic RV amenities, plus a free Wi-Fi hotspot. All of the park’s campsites include power hookups, firepits, and picnic tables, and the washrooms are just a short walk away from each. Camping here is a great opportunity to explore the heritage and culture of High River, as well as the river itself!
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 343 Macleod Trail SW, High River
(403) 652-2529
Camping season: June 15 – September 30
Aspen Crossing
Aspen Crossing is a train-tastic destination located just 45 minutes SE of Calgary. You’ll love the stunning prairie scenery that awaits you. A combination of elements from the historic dining car, replica train station gift shop, big rig friendly campsite, glamping caboose cabins and a full-size train offering 12 excursions including, The Polar Express ™ Train Ride!
Type of camping: Cabins, RV or tent
Address: Hwy #24, Mossleigh
Camping season: Round the year
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McGregor Lake Provincial Recreational Area
Directly east from the town of High River is the northern tip of McGregor Lake, as well as the McGregor Provincial Recreation Area and campground. Your campsites include firepits, and wide-open views onto the massive McGregor reservoir lake. This is a popular lake for all kids of boating and water sports, although be warned: the water is quite cold. If you feel brave, you can strap on water skis, jump on the tube, or just take it easy with a morning of fishing.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Vulcan County
First-come first-served
Camping season: April 23 – October 11
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Horseshoe Canyon Campground
For those who want to camp right in the middle of the badlands of Drumheller, the Horseshoe Canyon campground provides a wonderful option close to everything Drumheller and Kneehill County. There is free wi-fi too!
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Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: 213033 TWP RD 284, Drumheller
Camping season: May 11 to October 15
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park
At just $35/night, Chief Crowfoot’s Tipi Village makes it easy to get a taste of Blackfoot culture. Learn from local interpreters who will demonstrate craft and survival skills, watch a dance performance, and then spend the night in one of the tipis. Last minute rentals, from cots to buffalo rugs, are available at extra cost.
Type of camping: tent/ comfort tent
Address: Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, Sisika
Camping season: May-September
Crawling Valley Campground
This beautiful boater’s paradise is situated next to the Crawling Valley Reservoir, a large lake which provides fishing (catch and release), swimming, and water sports like tubing or water skiing off the boat, or more peaceful sports like canoeing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. The campground itself is as beautiful as the lake, and boasts all the basic camping amenities like firepits, washrooms, and a playground.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Bassano – Newell County No. 4
(403) 641-4095
Camping season: May 1 – September 30
Dinosaur Provincial Park
East of Calgary is the Dinosaur capital of the world! It is just a two-hour drive to the Dinosaur Provincial Park where you can see the Hoodoos, and explore the rich history of the area. The provincial park has three options for camping: RV and trailer sites with power, tent sites without power, or in a furnished comfort tent. If you plan to stick to the Provincial Park for your visit, you can enjoy the Red Deer River, or a guided Dino Tour where they take you on a bone hunt.
Type of camping: RV, tent, furnished comfort tent
Via Hwy. 876, Drumheller
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online
Camping season: April 30 – October 31
Chinook Provincial Recreation Area
Stay at Chinook PRA and enjoy everything Crowsnest pass has to offer. The park encompasses the beautiful Chinook Lake where you can enjoy water activities. Go underground on a mining tour, enjoy mountain biking, and if you want a chest-thumping adventure, climb Turtle Mountain. Chinook Campground features over 90 well-treed sites, including RV-friendly and tenting spots.
Type of camping: RV or tent
Address: Coleman
Camping season: June 1 to September 30
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online
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Castle Provincial Park
In the southwest corner of Alberta is the Castle Mountain area which contains the Castle Provincial Park and the Castle Wildlands.
In Castle PP, you have the option of 7 different tent or RV sites that give you a truly off-grid but beautiful-all-the-same camping experience. The Designated Camping Areas 1-7 require you to print a permit before heading out, at no charge, and are first-come first-served. The Designated Areas give you access to seldom-visited natural areas, river swimming, and fishing.
Within Castle Provincial Park are two sets of cabins, each with their own unique qualities. The Castle River Bridge cabins are heated, while the Beaver Mines cabins require you to bring some extra layers. Both offer beds, outdoor fire areas, and close proximity to rivers, lakes, and the Castle Wildlands.
Type of camping: Cabins, RV or tent
Multiple locations within the PP, Pincher Creek No. 9, AB
First-come first-served and reservable sites.
Camping season: May 1 – October 1 (varies depending on the site)
1 (877) 537-2757 / Book online