Beginners Guide to Backcountry Camping in Banff & Beyond

Backcountry camping in Banff promises a memorable adventure and the chance to enjoy some of the most pristine and picturesque landscapes in the Rockies without the crowds. Campers willing to make the journey on foot can find an extensive array of idyllic and remote campsites throughout Banff and the surrounding mountain parks.

Many visitors’ bucket lists include iconic multi-day treks like the Rockwall Trail, the Skoki Loop, the Berg Lake trail, Sunshine to Assiniboine, and the Iceline trail. These are all incredibly scenic treks, but demand a fair amount of planning and endurance.

For those seeking a shorter expedition or wanting to try backcountry camping for the first time, we’ve compiled a list of relatively accessible campgrounds in Banff and the surrounding parks that are suitable for shorter stays and that provide a great introduction to hike-in camping.

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Backcountry Camping Basics

Backcountry campgrounds are distinguished by their remote locations. Inaccessible by roads or cars, they can only be reached on foot (or occasionally by horse or helicopter). It’s a rustic experience that requires campers to carry all necessary gear in a backpack.

Most backcountry campgrounds offer a few basic amenities, such as outhouses and picnic tables. Otherwise, campers must be self-sufficient for the duration of their stay. This means packing proper shelter, food, water purification, and systems for cooking.

Anything brought in must also be brought out and campers should always adhere to leave no trace principles in the backcountry.

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Tips for Backcountry Camping

• Start small: If planning your first backcountry trip, choose a campground close to the trailhead and start with a single night. This allows you to become familiar with your gear and build comfort without the commitment of a long hike.
• Test gear at home: Knowing how to operate your stove, filter water, and set up your tent will make your backcountry experience much more enjoyable.
• Pack light and right: Pack for variable weather conditions and bring enough layers for colder temperatures overnight. As everything must be carried on your back, you’ll want to choose lightweight options and limit yourself to essentials, while ensuring you have options for temperature fluctuations.
• Plan ahead: Check weather, notices, and restrictions before leaving as trails sometimes close due to lingering snow or wildlife activity or periodic bans that restrict campfires may be in effect.
• Give yourself time: Plan to arrive at your campsite with plenty of daylight remaining. Fortunately the summer sunsets are fairly late in the day, but you’ll want to avoid travel, tent pitching, and cooking by headlamp.
• Respect wildlife: The Rockies are home to bears, moose, elk, and many other wildlife. Give animals plenty of space, properly store food, prepare meals in designated areas, and always carry bear spray.
• Be prepared for mishaps: Bring a first aid kit and satellite communicator in case of emergency and always let someone know your plan before leaving. Don’t expect to use your phone while in the backcountry.

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When to Go

Backcountry camping season is relatively short in the Rockies as snow can linger at high elevations well into the summer months. August and early September are the most reliable times for camping. While the presence of snow varies from year to year, it’s generally a good idea to stick to lower elevations if camping in June and even July. 

Campground opening dates do not always align with the best conditions. For example, campgrounds in the Provincial Parks of Kananaskis Country are technically operational into November, however, most campers will find conditions too cold and uncomfortable this far into the fall.

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Permits and Reservations

Advanced reservations and proper permits are required to backcountry camp in both national and provincial parks near Banff. While there is no formal ‘check in’ for backcountry campgrounds, you should have a copy of the permit or reservation on hand (either printed or saved offline) and ready to present to a conservation officer if requested. You will also need a separate park pass for the vehicle at the trailhead.

The campgrounds listed below are spread across Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, and Kananaskis Country in the Canadian Rockies. While all are close to the town of Banff, reservation requirements differ between areas managed by Parks Canada and those managed by Alberta Parks:

To book through the Parks Canada Reservation Service, you will need to know the access point, which may not always match the campground name.

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Beginner Backcountry Campgrounds in Banff

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Taylor Lake

• Hike length: 6.5km each way (13km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 600m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Access Point: Taylor Lake Trailhead
• Dates: July to October, weather dependent
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking areas

Five cozy campsites are nestled in the trees near the shore of Taylor Lake, an alpine gem beneath impressive peaks that form the Continental Divide. The campground offers a perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion.

The hike to Taylor Lake is uncomplicated and follows a well-maintained trail through a serene forest with a steady, moderate incline. Once tents are pitched, campers can relax along the lake or take a day hike to nearby O’Brien Lake.

Be warned that the bugs can be pretty intense during early summer, after the snow melts. Late August to early September is ideal for fewer insects and alpine wildflowers. If you are prepared for colder conditions, Taylor Lake is particularly resplendent during larch season at the end of September, when the trees turn a glorious shade of gold.

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Lake Minnewanka Shoreline

• Hike length: 8-11 km each way (16-22km roundtrip)
• Elevation: ~300m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Access Point: Lake Minnewanka Trailhead
• Dates: June – October, weather-dependent (restrictions in place July 10 – September 15)
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area, fire pits & firewood

Sitting along the shoreline of the majestic Lake Minnewanka are 3 fairly accessible and wonderfully scenic campgrounds: Aylmer Junction (LM8), Aylmer Canyon (LM9) and Mt. Inglismaldie (LM11). You can also paddle or mountain bike to these campgrounds. The rolling trail is both scenic and reasonably mellow as it gradually climbs and then descends back to the shoreline.

Pitching a tent at any of these campgrounds allows easy access to the Aylmer Lookout hike for spectacular views over the lake. Or campers can enjoy the dreamy scenes from the lakeshore.

The lower elevation makes these campsites particularly appealing in the early summer with firepits that offer warmth on cold nights. Note that trail restrictions are in place from July 10 to September 15 that requires hikers to travel in tight groups of 4 to help protect local grizzly bears. The first campground (LM8) is actually closed during this period.

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Glacier Lake

• Hike length: 9km each way (18km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 210m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Dates: June to October, weather dependent
• Access Point: Glacier Lake Trailhead
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area

Located just north of the Saskatchewan Crossing on the Icefields Parkway, Glacier Lake offers a relatively gentle trail with modest elevation gain, making it perfect for beginners. The campground is situated in a beautiful forested area along the shores of the turquoise lake.

The lower elevation makes this backcountry campground a great option earlier in the season, while the more remote location offers a greater sense of solitude compared to some other beginner-friendly sites.

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Beginner Backcountry Campgrounds in Yoho

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Laughing Falls

• Hike length: 3.9 km each way (7.8 km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 125m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Access Point: Takakkaw Falls Trailhead
• Dates: June to October, weather-dependent
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof food storage, cooking area

With a short approach and minimal elevation gain, Laughing Falls campground is an excellent option for a first backcountry camping trip. Starting near the breathtaking Takakkaw Falls, the trail follows the Yoho River along a well-maintained path.

The campground is located at the confluence of the rivers near the impressive Laughing Falls, providing both scenic views and the peaceful sound of rushing water. From the campground, you can enjoy day hikes that lead further up the valley, including Twin Falls.

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Twin Falls

• Hike length: 8.2km each way (16.4km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 300m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Access Point: Takakkaw Falls Trailhead
• Dates: June to October, weather-dependent
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof food storage, cooking area

The backcountry campground for those who really want to chase waterfalls, Twin Falls is located just a bit further up the Yoho River from Laughing Falls. The added distance rewards hikers with closer access to another spectacular waterfall, Twin Falls, where two parallel waterfalls cascade down the mountainside.

The trail involves moderate elevation gain leading to a campground in a beautiful meadow area with mountain views. A highlight of staying at Twin Falls is the opportunity to hike to the top of the falls along a steep but manageable trail for panoramic views of the Yoho Valley.

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Yoho Lake

• Hike length: 4km each way (8km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 300m
• Reservations: Parks Canada Backcountry Zone
• Access Point: Takakkaw Falls Trailhead
• Dates: July to October, weather-dependent
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-hangs, cooking area

Reaching Yoho Lake campground requires a short but slightly steeper hike, making it perfect for those looking to challenge themselves, while keeping the distance manageable. The trail starts with a set of steady switchbacks through forest with occasional views back to Takakkaw Falls.

The campground is situated by the shore of Yoho Lake, with views of the surrounding peaks, notably Wapta Mountain. For day hikes, campers can traverse the nearby Iceline Trail, one of the best hikes in Yoho or descend down Yoho Pass to Emerald Lake.

This campground’s location at a higher elevation means it typically opens in early July, offering cooler temperatures on hot summer days, the chance to refresh in the tranquil lake, or to sit back in the famed red chairs.

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Beginner Backcountry Campgrounds in Kananaskis

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Elbow Lake

• Hike length: 1.3km each way (2.6 roundtrip)
• Elevation: 125m
• Reservations: Alberta Parks, 90 days in advance of arrival
• Permit Area: East Kananaskis
• Opening Dates: June 15 – November 30
• Number of sites: 15
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area, firewood & firepits

Elbow Lake offers the perfect introduction to backcountry camping with its very short approach and consistent human presence. The campground features well-spaced sites along the lakeshore with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The short distance means you can pack a few extra comfort items that you might leave behind on longer trips.

This is an ideal location for families or anyone looking to test their gear and comfort level with backcountry camping before embarking on longer trips.

Many scenic destinations in the area attract day hikers and campers alike. Rae Glacier, Edworthy Falls, and Piper Pass all provide great options for those seeking to explore beyond the campground. Then, rest your legs at the end of the day with a cozy fire beside the lake.

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Lillian Lake

• Hike length: 6km each way (12km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 500m
• Reservations: Alberta Parks, 90 days in advance of arrival
• Permit Area: Kananaskis Valley
• Opening Dates: July – November
• Number of sites: 17
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area, firewood & firepits

Perched above its namesake, Lillian Lake campground offers a comfortable backcountry camping experience. The campground is well-organized with sites spaced through the trees and a cooking area by the shore.

The moderate trail climbs gradually through thick forest. Those who arrive with energy remaining can continue hiking to Galatea Lakes for stunning alpine scenery or up to Guinn’s Pass for wildflowers and panoramic vistas.

Seasonal restrictions are in place until late June to protect the trail damage, so camping here is best attempted from July into August.

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Point Campground

• Hike length: 3.4km each way (6.8 roundtrip)
• Elevation: 25m
• Reservations: Alberta Parks, 90 days in advance of arrival
• Permit Area: Kananaskis Lake
• Opening Dates: Year-round
• Number of sites: 20
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area, firewood & firepits

Point Campground offers one of the flattest hikes in Kananaskis, making it ideal for beginners. Located along the shores of Upper Kananaskis Lake in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, the campground provides stunning views with minimal effort. The campground is fairly large, with 20 well-spaced sites and two cooking areas with firepits.

One of the few year-round backcountry campgrounds, dedicated adventurers can enjoy winter camping here, although most will visit during mid-summer. During these warmer months, fishing and boating are popular activities. You can even reach this campground by paddling across Kananaskis Lake, although such a feat should only be attempted by those confident navigating large bodies of water.

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Forks Campground

• Hike length: 7.3km each way (14.6km roundtrip)
• Elevation: 100m
• Reservations: Alberta Parks, 90 days in advance of arrival
• Permit Area: Kananaskis Lake
• Opening Dates: June – November
• Number of sites: 20
• Amenities: pit toilets, bear-proof lockers, cooking area, firewood & firepits

Forks Campground is located a few kilometers away from Point Campground along a moderate trail with minimal elevation. The campground provides a cozy creekside location with well-forested sites. Like Point Campground, there are firepits with firewood provided. The trail continues to Three Isle Lake, a good day hike option for active campers.

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More Camping Inspiration

Camping opportunities in the Rockies are almost endless. From car-camping and canoe-camping to rustic alpine huts and remote random campsites, there is a site suitable for every adventurer.

Many of these beginner campsites can be combined with others in multi-day treks, or you can check out some of these more strenuous expeditions:

• Floe Lake + Rockwall Trail
• Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
• Berg Lake Trail
• Applebee Dome Campground in the Bugaboos