What you need to know about Alberta Parks camping reservations

Alberta Parks is opening its camping reservations for the 2021 season tomorrow and, if last year was any indication, spots are sure to book up fast.

In light of this, Alberta Parks has offered up a few tips to ensure the booking process goes smoothly.

First, create an account on the reservation website in advance so that you can log in right away when the system opens.

Pre-plan where you want to go so you’re not overwhelmed by choices on the day of, but be flexible about your dates so that you have some options.

Campgrounds fill up quickly for long weekends and during the summer months. Consider a mid-week trip, or go in the off-season (May and June or September and October.)

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Additionally, have other locations in mind, just in case you don’t get your first choice. Remember, there are over 5000 first-come, first-served sites in Alberta Parks campgrounds if you’re not able to make a reservation.

Lastly, if a campground is fully booked, try checking back occasionally as changes and cancellations do happen.

 

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Individual campsites and backcountry spots can be reserved up to 90 days before your trip, while comfort sites take bookings up to 180 days in advance.

In addition to individual site reservations opening on Thursday, comfort camping can be booked starting on Friday, while group camping remains closed at this time due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The opening times for reservations will be staggered by region, so make sure you know which area of the province your chosen campground is located in.

Alberta Parks

Southern Alberta campground reservations open at 9 am, while Kananaskis area bookings will be made available at 11 am.

Central Alberta spots can be booked starting at 1 pm, while anyone hoping to reserve a spot in the northern region of the province will have to wait until 3 pm.

Make a camping reservation tomorrow, and start planning your getaway to sit around a bonfire and sleep under the stars this summer.