Camping over the May long weekend is a time-honoured tradition in Alberta. The arrival of blue skies and warmer weather means that many campgrounds are opening for the summer. With more than 470 provincial parks and recreation areas, Alberta’s parks system currently includes 250 campgrounds with almost 14,000 campsites.

Alberta offers a variety of camping opportunities – including reservable and first-come, first served sites in established campgrounds, ‘glamping’, group camping and backcountry camping. Regardless of where outdoor enthusiasts set up, there is no better feeling than spending a night in Alberta’s great outdoors!

“Every Albertan and visitor to our province should be mindful of their role in preventing wildfires. We are excited to welcome new and returning visitors to our parks and public lands this summer but strongly encourage everyone to pay attention to campfires, burn barrels, hot engines, and other human causes of wildfires. We can all help prevent the majority of wildfires.”

Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

Camping in Alberta Parks

As of May 1, 68,429 reservations have been made, representing 231,151 nights of camping in Alberta’s parks.

The reservation process for this season is more convenient than ever. Campers can make reservations online up to 90 days ahead of their trip for individual and backcountry campsites, or 180 days ahead for group and comfort camping. Spur-of-the-moment adventure seekers can also use the ‘Camping this Weekend’ feature to easily find a reservable site.

Wildfire awareness and prevention

Alberta’s wildland firefighters continue working tirelessly to respond to and extinguish wildfires across northern parts of the province, but these brave men and women need the public’s help to prevent wildfires in the days and weeks ahead. One key part of wildfire prevention during the camping season is to observe fire bans. Multiple regions in the province are currently under full or partial fire bans and all campers and day-use site users should check on the fire ban status of their chosen recreation area.

When enjoying the outdoors this long weekend, please help prevent wildfires. Campfires account for the highest percentage of human-caused wildfires. Human-caused wildfires are completely preventable. All campers – and day-use site users – are reminded that when you are done with your campfire, soak it, stir it, and soak it again until ashes are cool to the touch.

‘Wilderness Camping’ on public land

For those seeking a unique and secluded camping experience, Alberta's public land offers a range of options. From established campgrounds with amenities to remote random camping spots in the wilderness, there's something for every kind of camper.

For a more rustic adventure, campers can explore camping areas located in remote parts of the province. These spots are often nestled along gravel roads or recreational trails and offer a true backcountry experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

A Public Lands Camping Pass is required for campers, backpackers, horse packers and other users 18 years and older who are planning to spend the night on public land along the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains from Grande Prairie to Waterton Lakes National Park within the pass area. Children and youth under the age of 18 do not require a pass.

As more visitors explore Alberta’s campgrounds, provincial parks and public land this summer, we wish you happy camping.

Quick Facts

  • The Alberta Parks call centre is available to help visitors make camping, lodging, and facility reservations and changes, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Sundays. If campers do not have an account, the call centre can assist with booking. To reach the call centre, campers can phone 1-877-537-2757.
  • Alberta Parks has camping experiences for everyone, with more than 9,000 reservable individual sites, 205 backcountry permits, 71 comfort units and 157 group camping sites available. There are also 5,000 first-come, first-served sites in Alberta’s parks.

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