As we’re inching closer to the fall, don’t put your camping gear in storage just yet. If you want to beat the crowds and still enjoy the great outdoors, fall camping is for you!
Before you head out, make sure the campground you’re planning on visiting is open. Many campgrounds in Alberta close in September. Below are listed some campsites that are open year round.
Hoodoos and Heritage
Writing-On-Stone Campground
Situated in a dessert-like landscape among hoodoos, sandstone cliffs and rock drawings, in the fall you can take in the wonders of the landscape while escaping the summer heat.
Although regularly scheduled interpretive programs related to the Blackfoot culture and history ends in August, there are self-guided walks in the provincial park.
Campground details:
- From September 1, sites at Writing-On-Stone Campground are first come-first serve.
- Powered sites are available all-year round.
- Maximum RV length is 12.2 m (40 ft.).
- Amenities include coin-operated showers, flush toilets and sani dump
Dinosaur Campground
Located about 3 hours east of Calgary, the name of this campground speaks for itself. Walk in the footsteps of the dinosaurs that used to roam Alberta millions of years ago.
Because Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, most of the park is a natural preserve you can only access the park on guided tours. Check the tour/activity schedule online where you can also make reservations.
If you’re not up for a guided tour, there are self-guided walks in the area where you can check out outdoor fossil displays.
If you want to delve deeper into dinosaur history, The Royal Tyrell Museum is worth a visit. The museum is a 2.5-hour drive from Dinosaur Provincial Park and is an excellent day-trip or stop on the way to or from the campground.
Campsite details:
- Reservations at Dinosour Campground can be made online until October 12 or by calling Alberta Parks Contact Centre at 1-877-537-2757. From October 13 sites are first come-first serve.
- Powered sites are available year round.
- Amenities include coin-operated showers, flush toilets and laundry facilities.
Mountains and More
About 3 km outside Banff, this campground is the springboard to explore Banff and the national park that surrounds it. Whether you like hot springs, hiking, fine dining or cross country skiing, this area offers it all. Read more about activities in Banff National Park on Parks Canada website.
Campground details:
- Reservations can be made on the Parks Canada Reservation website.
- Sites are powered and have access to sani dumps.
- Amenities include coin-operated showers and flush toilets.
- The campground is wheelchair accessible.
Crowsnest Pass Campground
Surrounded by spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, the campsite in Crowsnest Pass offers many activities, such as visiting the nearby Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, hiking, spelunking, fishing and ATVing.
- Contact the campground by calling 403-564-4814 or emailing crowsnestpasscampground@gmail.com.
- Sites have access to power, water and sewer.
- Amenities include indoor bathrooms and showers, Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
Happy camping this fall!
