Banff National Park Camping

Banff National Park is one of Canada’s crown jewels—and a dream destination for campers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. As Canada’s first national park, Banff offers more than 6,600 square kilometers of protected wilderness within the Canadian Rockies, just 90 minutes west of Calgary. With frontcountry campgrounds, backcountry sites, and even equipped camping options, Banff is one of the best places in North America to experience the great outdoors.

Why Camp in Banff National Park

Camping in Banff is the most affordable and immersive way to experience the park. Whether you're setting up a tent beneath towering pines or parking your RV beside a glacier-fed lake, you'll enjoy direct access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and some of Canada’s most iconic natural landmarks. With over 2,400 campsites across 13 frontcountry campgrounds, there are plenty of options—if you plan ahead.

When to Go Camping in Banff

The best time to camp in Banff is from June through September. Summer offers mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and access to nearly all park amenities. July and August are peak season, so reservations are essential. June and September are quieter and still provide great weather and accessibility.

Winter camping is also available at Tunnel Mountain Village II and Lake Louise Trailer Campground. These sites remain open year-round and offer a cozy base for enjoying skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Just be prepared for sub-zero temperatures and limited services.

How to Book a Campsite

Campground reservations open in January and can be made online at reservation.pc.gc.ca or by calling 1-877-737-3783. Many sites book out months in advance—especially during peak season—so early planning is key. Some campgrounds, like Waterfowl Lakes, Mosquito Creek, and Rampart Creek, offer first-come, first-served sites. If you’re trying for one of these, arrive early in the day for the best chance of securing a spot.

To camp in Banff, you’ll need a valid National Park Pass and a camping permit, both of which can be purchased at park entry stations, campground kiosks, or online. Fire permits are also required if you plan to have a campfire.

Top Campgrounds in Banff National Park

Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds

Located just minutes from the town of Banff, this large campground complex includes Village I, Village II (open year-round), and the Trailer Court. It accommodates both tents and RVs up to 50 feet, with options for full hookups, electric-only sites, and unserviced sites. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a local transit stop make this a convenient choice.

Two Jack Main and Two Jack Lakeside

Two Jack Main offers over 300 unserviced sites near Lake Minnewanka, with access to flush toilets and picnic shelters. Two Jack Lakeside is smaller and more scenic, offering lakeside views and Otentik cabins. Both are better suited for tents and small RVs (under 27 feet).

Lake Louise Campground

Situated 4 km from the famous turquoise lake, this year-round campground has two sections: one for hard-sided RVs and one for soft-sided units like tents and tent trailers (surrounded by an electric fence for bear safety). Sites accommodate units up to 50 feet and include electric hookups, showers, and flush toilets.

Johnston Canyon Campground

A quiet, forested campground near one of Banff’s most popular hiking trails. Sites are available for RVs up to 27 feet, with basic amenities like toilets, showers, and food storage.

Waterfowl Lakes Campground

This first-come, first-served campground sits along the Icefields Parkway and is surrounded by incredible views. It accommodates RVs up to 30 feet and includes dry and flush toilets. No cell service is available.

Mosquito Creek Campground

Located north of Lake Louise, this rustic site has 32 first-come, first-served spots for RVs up to 35 feet. Expect basic amenities like pit toilets and food lockers, with no hookups or cell reception.

Silverhorn Creek Campground

Offers a quiet experience near Lake Louise with reservable sites for RVs up to 70 feet. Amenities are limited to pit toilets and picnic tables. There is no water onsite, but it’s available nearby at Waterfowl Lakes.

Protection Mountain Campground

This first-come, first-served campground has 72 sites for RVs up to 35 feet and basic amenities like pit toilets and picnic tables. It’s located along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway.

Other Nearby Campgrounds

If sites within Banff are full, nearby Bow Valley Provincial Park offers over 100 sites with flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. It’s just east of Banff and can be a good backup option with online reservations available.

Backcountry Camping in Banff

For those looking for solitude and adventure, Banff also offers backcountry campsites accessible by foot or horseback. Permits are required and must be reserved in advance. Campers must follow strict guidelines, including camping at designated sites, storing food properly, and minimizing their impact on the environment. Popular backcountry routes include the Rockwall Trail and areas near Lake O’Hara.

Camping Tips for Banff

• Book early—reservations for peak season fill up quickly.

• Arrive early for first-come, first-served campgrounds.

• Follow Leave No Trace principles and store food in bear-proof lockers.

• Fires are only permitted in designated areas and require a fire permit.

• Check for fire bans, wildlife advisories, and other updates on the Parks Canada Banff page.

Wildlife & Safety

Banff is home to grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, wolves, and mountain goats. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and never leave food unattended. Use bear-proof lockers, avoid cooking near tents, and carry bear spray if hiking or camping in remote areas.

Getting There

The park is accessible year-round via the Trans-Canada Highway from Calgary (about 90 minutes). If you're arriving from the U.S., bring a valid passport, U.S. driver’s license, and proof of insurance. International travelers can fly into Calgary International Airport. Shuttle buses and trains also connect Banff to nearby cities and parks.

Final Thoughts

Camping in Banff National Park offers unforgettable access to one of the most spectacular natural areas in North America. Whether you’re seeking a fully serviced RV site or a quiet corner of backcountry solitude, Banff delivers. Surrounded by towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and diverse wildlife, you’ll find that there’s no better way to experience the Rockies than by camping in the heart of them.

For availability, current fees, or to book your campsite, visit Parks Canada Reservations.