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Top 8 Calgary Camping Grounds to Explore
Camping is always a good idea if you want to commune with nature in Calgary! While it may be known for its awe-inspiring cityscapes, Calgary’s camping scene is just as captivating.
But the key thing here is knowing which camping grounds are worth a visit. Luckily ,we know just the places you should start marking in your itinerary! Let’s get started!
Mountain View Calgary Camping
Media from mvcalgarycamping
Address: 244024 Range Rd 284, Calgary, AB T2M 4L5, Canada
Website: https://calgarycamping.com/
Contact Details: +14032936640
Opening Hours: 24/7
Mountain View Campground stands out as a top pick for RV enthusiasts. What makes it so appealing is it’s decked out with 180 full-service RV sites, making it a hassle-free getaway spot.
Another great thing is its mix of basic and comprehensive amenities – they even have firewood available for purchase.
The convenience doesn’t stop there, though, because there’s a fully stocked store, 18-hole mini golf, laundry facilities, and a dump site round out the campground’s features. And if you want a more serious round of golf, the nearby Lakeside Golf Club is just a short drive away.
The campground’s location is equally convenient as it’s situated conveniently off Highway 1.
Setting up camp here means you’re poised pond-side amid Alberta’s picturesque farm and ranch lands, with the western Rocky Mountains serving as a stunning backdrop on clear summer days.
Pro Tip:
Make the most of the campground’s strategic location by planning a day trip to Banff National Park. Just a drive away, this iconic destination offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities that complement your camping adventure.
Sheep River Provincial Park
Media credits betamanic
Address: Millarville, AB T0L 1K0, Canada
Website: http://www.albertaparks.ca/sheep-river/
Contact Details: +14036780760
Opening Hours: Daily 7 AM–11 PM
Sheep River Provincial Park is your go-to for outdoor fun without the long haul. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, waterfall hiking, and appreciating the scenic views of the Rockies.
Here, you can choose from pitching a tent or parking your trailer. Power sites are available, so connectivity and convenience wouldn’t be a problem here.
Speaking of amenities, the seasoned campers in our team were happy to find that the park doesn’t skimp on them. With a playground for the kids, washrooms, showers, and firepits, it’s got everything you’ll need for a complete yet comfortable camping experience.
Pro Tip:
Make a point to explore Turner Valley. The Turner Valley Gas Plant National and Provincial Historic Site offers a slice of history, while Brauerei Fahr promises a taste of the world’s best Bavarian-style Hefeweisse, crowned in the 2020 World Beer Awards.
Riverbend Campground
Media from theriverbendcampground
Address: 48033 370 Ave E, Okotoks, AB T1S 1B5, Canada
Website: http://www.riverbendcampground.ca/
Contact Details: +14039382017
Opening Hours: 24/7
Right outside Calgary and Okotoks, Riverbend Campground is your go-to for a quick nature reset. It’s all about the views here—think Rocky Mountains and sprawling ranch lands right from your campsite or as you wander the park.
Riverbend is also conveniently positioned along the gentler banks of the Sheep River which helps if you’re looking to hop to different grounds for your trip.
The setup is straightforward but comprehensive. They’ve got washrooms, a chapel for some quiet reflection, laundry facilities for longer stays, and even a mini golf course for some fun.
Craving a bit more excitement? Hit the river with a rented boat or take a hike along its banks. It’s all the makings of a memorable outdoor adventure, minus the hassle of a long journey.
Pro Tip:
Hit the trails or the river early—there are fewer people, more wildlife, and the best views. Grab a boat or just walk; either way, you’ll get a quiet start and beat the crowd.
George Lane Memorial Park and Campground
Media credits to.tok_z
Address: 343 Macleod Trail SW, High River, AB T1V 1B5, Canada
Website: http://www.georgelanecampground.ca/
Contact Details: +14036522529
Opening Hours: 24/7
Located near High River and nestled alongside the Highwood River, George Lane Memorial Park and Campground is a low-key retreat hidden among tall trees.
Aside from great views, the forest nearby gives off this natural vibe that we really can’t get enough of.
Best of all, the place is equipped with the essentials for RV camping, including the added perk of free Wi-Fi. There are also sites with power hookups, firepits, and picnic tables, and the washrooms aren’t far off.
This place is a practical spot for exploring the local heritage and natural beauty of High River and its surroundings. So, if you’re in search of a straightforward place to park your RV and enjoy a bit of culture and nature, this could be your spot.
Pro Tip:
Bring a bike or good walking shoes. The region around High River is rich in trails and scenic paths along the Highwood River. It’s perfect for morning rides or walks to kickstart your day with stunning views and a bit of local wildlife.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
Media credits dlove8
Address: Newell County No. 4, AB T0J 2K0, Canada
Website: http://www.albertaparks.ca/dinosaur.aspx
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Head eastward from Calgary and you’ll hit the dinosaur capital of the world in about two hours. Dinosaur Provincial Park is where it’s at if you’re into hoodoos and diving deep into the area’s history.
The park gives you three ways to camp: power sites for RVs and trailers, basic sites for tents, or a bit of luxury with a furnished comfort tent.
If you’re thinking of staying within the Provincial Park, there’s plenty to do. You can chill by the Red Deer River or get hands-on with a guided Dino Tour, where they take you out to hunt for bones—pretty exciting, eh?
Pro Tip:
Book the guided Dino Tour in advance. These tours can fill up fast, especially during peak season.
Going on a bone hunt with an expert can dramatically enrich your experience, giving you insights you’d miss otherwise. Plus, if you’re into photography or just soaking in the vistas, aim for an early morning or late afternoon tour.
McGregor Lake Provincial Recreation Area
Media from macgregorpointpp
Address: Vulcan County, AB T0L 1L0, Canada
Contact Details: +18775372757
Opening Hours: 24/7
McGregor Lake Provincial Recreation Area is a spot where your campsite comes with a firepit and an unobstructed view of the vast McGregor Lake.
McGregor Lake is pretty massive as it’s one of the largest in southern Alberta. It’s perfect for sailing, power boating, or kayaking.
This place is a hit if you’re interested in boating and water sports, though we’ve got to warn you that the water is on the colder side.
If you’re feeling adventurous, strapping on water skis or hopping on a tube could be your call to action. But if you prefer something more laid-back, the fishing scene is pretty solid too, with walleye and pike being the main draws.
The campground itself? It’s got the basics covered—washrooms, potable water, and places to launch your boat. The campsites are roomy, fit for tents or RVs, and some even come with power hookups.
Pro Tip:
This area can get pretty breezy, especially in the afternoons, which affects everything from setting up your campsite to enjoying water sports. A windbreaker and extra stakes for your tent or awning can make a big difference.
Also, if you’re into fishing or planning on spending a lot of time on the water, early mornings are your best bet.
Crawling Valley Campground
Media credits katracho8725
Address: Newell County No. 4, AB T0J 0B0, Canada
Website: http://www.crawlingvalleycampground.ca/
Contact Details: +14036414095
Opening Hours: 24/7
At Crawling Valley Reservoir, you are in for a treat if you’re fans of anything water-related.
This place is a haven for boaters, with a big lake that’s just asking for you to fish (catch and release style), swim, or dive into more adrenaline-pumping activities like tubing and water skiing.
If you’re leaning towards a quieter day on the water, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding are more our speed here.
What’s great is that the campground matches the beauty of the lake, decked out with all the essentials you need for a solid camping trip.
We mean fire pits for those late-night chats, washrooms that are a must-have for any extended stay, and a playground that’s perfect if you’ve got little ones tagging along.
Pro Tip:
While the water sports are a major draw, the area around Crawling Valley Reservoir has more to offer. Take some time to explore the nearby trails on foot or by bike.
The scenery is worth it, and it’s a nice change of pace from the water activities. And, if you’re planning to fish, make sure your gear is ready for catch and release—it’s all about preserving the ecosystem here.
Castle Provincial Park
Media credits davey_gravy
Address: AB-774, Pincher Creek No. 9, AB T0K 1C0, Canada
Website: http://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/south/castle-pp/
Contact Details: +14036271165
Opening Hours: 24/7
If you got your eyes set for a spot in the southwest corner of Alberta, you might want to check out the Castle Mountain area.
It’s home to Castle Provincial Park and Castle Wildlands, and it’s something else if you’re chasing an off-grid camping experience that doesn’t skimp on the views.
But before you head out, you must remember to print a permit for one of the designated camping areas (specifically 1-7) because it’s a first-come, first-served deal. But the good news is it’s completely free!
As for the designated areas, they’re your ticket to some of the most untouched natural spots you can imagine. We’re talking river swimming that’ll refresh you in ways a pool never could, and fishing in spots that feel like they’ve been waiting just for you.
Another great thing to take note of is there are also fishing classes that you can join to hone your angler skills. Just go by their boathouse and you’ll find experts around the corner who are ready to teach you a thing or two about fishing!
Pro Tip:
Being prepared is key. Since it’s off-grid, packing essentials like water, food, and maybe solar chargers can make our stay smooth. And since these areas are a bit under the radar, the peace and quiet are unmatched, but so is the need to be self-sufficient.
