Camping is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Banff National Park up close and personal.
There are over 2,500 campsites in the park, so there is plenty of space to pitch your tent or park your RV. However, with so many options, it can be difficult to choose the best campground and plan your trip. That’s why we’ve put together this Banff camping guide, complete with must-know tips and the best Banff campgrounds to visit.
- Plan ahead and book early
Banff National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, and campsites tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season (June to August). To avoid disappointment, it’s crucial to plan your camping trip well in advance and book your campsite as early as possible. You can make reservations up to three months in advance through the Parks Canada reservation system.
- Choose the right campground
Banff National Park offers a wide range of campgrounds to suit different needs and preferences. Some campgrounds are more rustic and remote, while others offer more amenities and services. Here are some of the best Banff campgrounds to consider:
- Tunnel Mountain Campground: This is the largest campground in Banff and offers a mix of tent and RV sites. It’s located close to town and has amenities such as showers, fire pits, and a camp store.
- Two Jack Lakeside Campground: This campground offers stunning views of Two Jack Lake and is popular with kayakers and canoers. It has both tent and RV sites and amenities such as fire pits and toilets.
- Lake Louise Campground: This campground is located near the famous Lake Louise and offers tent and RV sites. It has amenities such as hot showers, a camp store, and a shuttle to the lake.
- Johnston Canyon Campground: This campground is located near the popular Johnston Canyon hiking trail and offers tent and RV sites. It has amenities such as flush toilets and a camp store.
Click here as Parks Canada will launch reservations for the 2023 visitor season starting Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 8 am MT. Launch dates vary by location; you can find specific launch dates and times here.
- Be prepared for wildlife encounters
Banff National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, and cougars. While seeing these animals in the wild can be an incredible experience, it’s important to take precautions to avoid dangerous encounters. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, store food and garbage in bear-proof containers, and make noise while hiking to alert animals of your presence.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s important to protect its natural beauty and wildlife. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all your garbage, using designated fire pits, and staying on designated trails.
- Respect quiet hours
Most Banff campgrounds have quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. to ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep. Keep noise levels low and refrain from using loud equipment or music during these quiet hours.
Camping in Banff National Park is an unforgettable experience, but it requires some planning and preparation. By following these tips and choosing the right campground, you can enjoy all that Banff has to offer while minimizing your impact on the environment and wildlife. Happy camping!
