After pitching our tent at Calgary’s best campgrounds, we can’t imagine a summer without them!
Growing up, my family and I would pile into the car every summer, eager to explore the great outdoors near Calgary. Sometimes we’d roast marshmallows, most times my brother and I chase each other with a tree branch.
Now, I’m excited to share some of the best camping spots in and around Calgary, perfect for your next adventure.
So grab your gear and let’s dive into the top places where you can create your own camping memories!
Discover the Beauty of the Outdoors at Calaway Park Campground
– Media credit: calawaypark
Camping type: tent camping and RV parks
Address: 245033 Range Road 33
Contact details: +1 403-240-3822
Operating hours:
- May 17 to June 3: weekends only
- June 7 to September 2: daily
Tucked conveniently off Route One on Calgary’s west side, Calaway Park Campground is a solid choice for RV travelers. The park is clean and hassle-free, with easy parking and all the essentials—power, water, laundry, showers, and WiFi—covered.
The site itself is well-equipped, offering full hookups and washrooms with a launderette. You can even choose your own spot, and it’s right next to a big amusement park.
Swing by the office for discounted park tickets if you’re planning a visit. Plus, you’re not far from shops and an RV center.
While there aren’t any activities or games provided, just bring your own gear to stay entertained. There’s a big open field where kids can run around and make friends—so they’re bound to stay busy.
Pro tip: There’s no ATM on-site, so be sure to bring cash if you plan to use the showers! |
Unwind Under the Stars at Riverbend Campground
– Media credit: theriverbendcampground
Camping type: tent camping, cabins, and RV parks
Address: 48033 370 Ave E, Okotoks
Contact details: +1 403-938-2017
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 10pm
Riverbend Campground offers excellent value among the area’s RV parks, with plenty of spots right along the Little Pigeon River—all at the standard rate. Most sites come with full hookups, fire rings, and even free cable hookups.
While there’s no bathhouse, you’ll still find the essentials covered: laundry facilities, drink machines, ice for $2, and firewood for $5. Free Wi-Fi is available.
The Wi-Fi does the job, though, and the sites are impressively clean—perfect for a family getaway. It’s a quiet spot with beautiful views, especially along the river. Most sites are paved with concrete, while a few are gravel.
Pro tip: Just a heads-up: the river’s depth can be misleading from the bank—it’s deeper than it looks, with some areas over three feet deep. |
Explore the Scenic Trails of Spring Hill RV Park
– Media credit: springhillrvpark
Camping type: RV park
Address: 41216 Big Hill Springs Rd, Cochrane
Contact details: +1 403-932-2010
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 6pm
SpringHill RV Park is a well-kept and tidy spot, with plenty to offer. The playground is a big hit with the kids, and the bathrooms, which are card-locked, are spotless. Plus the convenience of a Shell station right in front where you can fill up on diesel.
The gravel sites are well-maintained and accommodate large RVs with ease. It’s around a 30-minute drive to Tuscany train station, where you can catch a train into downtown Calgary—another 30-minute ride.
The park features a large playground for the little ones, a gas station, convenience store, and propane fill-up right on site. The RV area is secure, with gated entry and exit via key card, plus free Wi-Fi and solid cell phone reception.
When you exit, you’ll find a gas station clearly designed for RVs. There’s also plenty of room upfront for maneuvering.
Pro tip: If you find yourself running short on food, don’t worry! There’s a small store on-site where you can pick up essentials like hot dogs, bacon, and a variety of snacks. |
Embrace Tranquility at Mountain View Farm
Camping type: tent camping and RV park
Address: 244024 Range Rd 284
Contact details: +1 403-293-6640
Operating hours: open all-year-round
Mountain View Farm is close enough to Calgary for easy access but still quiet enough for a restful night’s sleep. The main facilities are clean bathrooms and an outdoor double sink for washing dishes.
Don’t miss the office/store, where you can grab a generously sized single-scoop ice cream cone for just $2.50—they’ve got eight flavors to choose from!
The campground’s setting is lovely, surrounded by ponds and waterfowl. There’s plenty to keep you entertained, including an 18-hole mini-putt course, horseshoe pits, and a small collection of animals to admire from behind fences.
Kids will love the playground, and the on-site store has you covered if you forget any essentials—plus, there’s always more ice cream.
Pro tip: Be sure to bring plenty of chains to secure your belongings. It’s best not to leave anything outside overnight, and don’t forget to lock your truck to keep everything safe. |
Experience Breathtaking Views at Ribbon Falls Backcountry Campground
– Media credit: hikebiketravel
Camping type: tent camping and backcountry camping
Address: Kananaskis, AB T0L 2C0
Contact details: +1 403-678-0760
Operating hours: June 15 – November 30
Ribbon Falls Backcountry Campground is a gem, located about 8 km from the trailhead. The campsites are well-spaced for privacy, with three sites right along the riverbank, where you can drift off to the soothing sound of the falls.
There are two communal fire pits for gathering around, and eight large bear lockers for food storage. The creekside sites offer unbeatable views of the falls, which are simply stunning.
You’ll definitely want to spend some time just taking it all in. If you’re up for an adventure, make the trek up to the lake—the rock wall scramble adds a thrilling touch to the hike, and the views from the top are absolutely worth every bit of effort.
Pro tip: It’s a good idea to leave your overnight gear at the Falls Campground before hiking up the cliffs to the lake using the chains. |
Rejuvenate Your Spirit At Beaver Flats Campground
– Media credit: albertaparks
Camping type: tent camping, cabin and cottage rentals, and RV park
Address: Bragg Creek, AB T0L 0K0
Contact details: +1 877-537-2757
Operating hours:
- Monday: 8:15 pm to 12am
- Tuesday to Friday: 12am to 12am
- Saturday: 12am to 4:30pm
First Come, First Serve
Beaver Flat is a beautifully maintained campground in a scenic spot right on the Kananaskis River. The sites and bathrooms are kept spotless, and with quiet hours from 11 pm to 7 am, it’s a peaceful place to unwind.
The hosts are friendly, and the lots are spacious, with some separation between sites, although it’s not the most secluded. The campsites are well-treed, offering a good sense of privacy. Its location is ideal for outdoor adventures, with easy access to hiking, Elbow Falls, and exploring the surrounding area.
The Beaver Flat trail is a charming little walk that kids will enjoy, and the river is perfect for setting up some camping chairs and spending a relaxing day by the water.
Pro tip: Since it’s all first-come, first-served, it’s worth driving in to check for a spot, even if the “Campground Full” sign is up—you might still get lucky! |
Connect with Wildlife at Aspen Crossing Caboose Cabins
– Media credit: aspencrossing
Camping type: tent camping, RV parks, caboose cabin rentals
Address: PM82+WH, AB-24, Mossleigh
Contact details: +1 403-534-2129
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 6pm
Aspen Crossing Caboose Cabins is a spacious, beautifully maintained campground just 45 minutes away, making it a convenient getaway. The sites are generously sized, and there’s plenty of fun for the kids.
Each cabin comes with its own washroom and a BBQ grill on the private deck, and you’ll find a clean toilet and shower house nearby.
The playground and free access to the lagoon are great additions for family fun. For a small fee, you can also enjoy a train ride to the kiddie ranch.
While Aspen Crossing is near a small village with limited walking options, you’re just a short drive away from excellent fishing, hiking, and the excitement of big city activities.
Pro tip: There are a couple of popular restaurants on-site, and the best part is they even deliver right to your campsite! |
Venture Into the Wilderness at Elevated Escapes Glamping
– Media credit: elevated_escapes
Camping type: Glamping
Address: 2822 Wintergreen Rd, Bragg Creek
Contact details: https://www.elevatedescapes.ca/en/contact-us
The domes at Elevated Escapes are thoughtfully equipped with cooking amenities and come with two pairs of snowshoes for your winter adventures. They are beautifully decorated, featuring numerous thoughtful touches that enhance your stay.
You’ll truly appreciate the off-grid vibe—it’s quiet and peaceful, with a stunning starry sky on winter nights. Plus, you’re just a quick five-minute drive from the charming town of Bragg Creek.
The outhouses are bright, very clean, and surprisingly low on odor—if you catch my drift! Each site has everything you need: dishes, soap, bath towels, non-potable water, a hammock, chairs, a stove, and even firewood for your first night.
Pro tip: The site offers a beautiful view of the river below. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might find a way down—but keep in mind, it’s quite a big drop, so proceed with caution! |