Campsites in Alberta | Which Alberta Campgrounds Are First Come First Serve?
Alberta is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of camping opportunities. While many campgrounds require reservations, there are several campgrounds in the province that operate on a first-come, first-served basis. These campgrounds provide a sense of adventure and spontaneity, allowing you to embark on a camping trip without the need for advanced planning. In this article, we will highlight some of Alberta’s notable first-come, first-served campgrounds that cater to those seeking a more flexible camping experience.
Banff National Park Campgrounds
Tunnel Mountain Campground
Located just minutes away from the town of Banff, Tunnel Mountain Campground is a popular destination for both RV and tent camping. While a portion of the campground is available for reservations, a significant number of sites are set aside for first-come, first-served campers. The campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is an ideal base for exploring the beauty of Banff National Park.
Two Jack Main Campground
Nestled along the shores of Two Jack Lake, Two Jack Main Campground provides a picturesque camping experience. These popular campsites in Alberta offer a mix of un-serviced and electric sites, and a portion of the sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wake up to the soothing sounds of the lake and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
A World Heritage Site Campground
Dinosaur Provincial Park Campground
Situated in the badlands of southern Alberta, Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its paleontological treasures. It will turn anyone into a dinosaur hunter AND a dinosaur lover! The campground within the park operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, join guided tours, and marvel at the ancient fossils and hoodoos that make this area truly remarkable with highly sought after campsites in Alberta.
Lake Campgrounds in Alberta
Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
Located east of Edmonton, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park offers a tranquil setting for camping enthusiasts. The campground features both unserviced and powered sites, and a portion of them is available for first-come, first-served campers. Enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and water activities on the serene lake, surrounded by lush forests and prairie landscapes.
William A. Switzer Provincial Park
Located near Hinton, William A. Switzer Provincial Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features several first-come, first-served campsites in Alberta, including Jarvis Bay Campground, Gregg Lake Campground, and Obed Lake Campground. These campgrounds offer beautiful surroundings, serene lakes, and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds.
Beauvais Lake Provincial Park
For a tranquil camping experience in southern Alberta, Beauvais Lake Provincial Park is an excellent choice for some of the most beautiful campsites in Alberta. The park features a first-come, first-served campground where you can enjoy peaceful lakeside camping. Engage in fishing, canoeing, or hiking along the scenic trails while taking in the picturesque vistas of the park.
Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Located near Rocky Mountain House, Crimson Lake Provincial Park offers a great mix of reservable and first-come, first-served campsites in Alberta. Embrace the beauty of the lake, go fishing, paddle the waters, or explore the hiking trails. The availability of first-come, first-served sites allows for spontaneous camping trips to this picturesque destination. If you have not been here, it is a destination you should add to your list this year!
Jasper National Park Campground
Wilcox Creek Campground
Nestled amidst the stunning Canadian Rockies, Wilcox Creek Campground in Jasper National Park provides a serene camping experience. A portion of the campground is designated for first-come, first-served campers. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, nearby hiking trails, and the chance to spot wildlife in this pristine wilderness.
Foothills and Prairie Campgrounds of Alberta
Beaver Mines Lake Campground
Situated in the scenic foothills of southwestern Alberta, Beaver Mines Lake Campground is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. This rustic campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers a serene lakeside setting. Enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, located in the southeastern corner of Alberta, is a unique camping destination known for its Indigenous rock art and stunning landscapes. You will not see more unique campsites in Alberta! The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing you to experience the park’s rich cultural and natural heritage at your own pace.
Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park near Trochu. This hidden gem offers first-come, first-served campsites, allowing you to set up camp amidst the park’s rugged badlands, cliffs, and prairie grasslands. Explore the hiking trails, enjoy birdwatching, and soak in the tranquil ambiance of this lesser-known park.
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
Straddling the border of Alberta and Saskatchewan, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park is a diverse wilderness area offering a range of recreational activities. While some campgrounds require reservations, the Elkwater and Reesor Lake Campgrounds feature first-come, first-served sites. Explore the park’s unique mix of forests, hills, and lakes, and partake in activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
Located in the heart of Kananaskis Country, Peter Lougheed Provincial Park boasts breathtaking mountain scenery and so many opportunities for a wide variety of recreational activities. The Interlakes Campground is not only located within the park, but it also has a section for first-come, first-served sites. Perfect for campers who don’t want to have solid plans. Set up camp among gorgeous towering peaks, then hike scenic trails, or paddle in canoes or kayak on crystal-clear lakes, or simply sit and enjoy the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, sights, smells and sounds.
Book a Spot today!
Remember to plan accordingly when visiting first-come, first-served campgrounds, as availability can vary depending on the season and demand. It’s prudent to arrive early in the day to secure a campsite and be prepared with essential camping gear – the earlier the better! Embrace the flexibility and embrace the serendipity of camping in Alberta’s remarkable outdoor destinations, if you don’t find a spot, there may be one just down the road.
There is a guide you can access that will show you all the first-come, first-served campgrounds that will let you choose your own adventure! However, if you decide to take more planned routes, great campsites in Alberta like Willey West Campground and Drayton Valley RV Park Campground will be more than happy to take your reservation, or you can take your chances and show up the day of, and hopefully there will be room for you!
