Campgrounds Near Banff National Park Turquoise Lakes
Banff National Park is Canada's first and most iconic national park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. With turquoise lakes, towering peaks, abundant wildlife, and world-class hiking trails, Banff offers unparalleled natural beauty. RV camping near Banff provides the perfect base for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying comfortable, convenient overnight accommodations.
From intimate forest campsites within the park to full-service RV resorts in nearby Canmore and Kananaskis Country, Banff area campgrounds cater to every camping style. The region offers easy access to famous attractions like Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, and the Icefields Parkway. Whether you're planning a week-long Rocky Mountain adventure or a weekend getaway, discover the perfect RV campground for your Banff vacation.
Ready to explore Banff National Park by RV? Browse available rentals to start your Rocky Mountain adventure and secure the perfect vehicle for your camping trip.
Best Campgrounds Near Banff National Park
We've curated 12 outstanding campgrounds near Banff National Park, ranging from secluded national park sites to full-service RV resorts. Each campground offers unique amenities and convenient access to the Canadian Rockies' world-famous attractions.
Tunnel Mountain Village II - Banff National Park
These featured campgrounds near Banff National Park have been selected for excellent facilities, convenient locations, and exceptional Rocky Mountain experiences. Each property provides reliable amenities for comfortable RV stays.
Tunnel Mountain Village II - Banff National Park
Full hookups within walking distance of Banff
Tunnel Mountain Village II is Parks Canada's premier RV campground within Banff National Park, located just minutes from downtown Banff. Features electrical hookups with 30/15 amp service, water, sewer, and dump station access.
The campground offers modern amenities including showers, toilets, playground, and interpretive programs. Perfect for families and RV travelers seeking the full national park camping experience with reliable hookups and proximity to Banff's restaurants, shops, and attractions.
5 minutes from downtown Banff with full hookups
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court - Banff National Park
Premium RV sites with full hookups
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court is Banff's most RV-friendly Parks Canada campground, specifically designed for trailers and motorhomes. Offers full hookups including 50/30/15 amp service, water, sewer, and spacious pull-through sites accommodating large rigs.
The property features big rig friendly sites, dump station, showers, and toilets. Ideal for extended-stay RV travelers seeking premium hookups within the national park while enjoying easy access to Banff's trail network and town amenities.
5 minutes from Banff with 50-amp full hookups
Two Jack Lakeside - Banff National Park
Scenic lakeside camping with mountain views
Two Jack Lakeside offers one of Banff's most scenic camping experiences, situated directly on the shores of Two Jack Lake with stunning views of Mount Rundle. Features water hookups, dump station, and classic national park ambiance.
The campground provides showers, toilets, grills, and picnic tables with direct lake access for fishing and paddling. Perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking authentic Rocky Mountain lakeside camping with unforgettable sunrise and sunset views.
12 km northeast of Banff with lakeside sites
Two Jack Main - Banff National Park
Forested camping near Two Jack Lake
Two Jack Main provides a peaceful forested camping experience near Two Jack Lake, offering a quieter alternative to lakeside sites. Features water hookups, dump station, and spacious sites surrounded by evergreen forest.
Amenities include toilets, grills, picnic tables, and firewood sales. Walking distance to Two Jack Lake for day use. Ideal for campers seeking tranquil forest settings with easy access to Banff's hiking trails and the scenic Minnewanka Loop drive.
12 km northeast of Banff in forested setting
Johnston Canyon - Banff National Park
Trailhead camping near famous canyon hike
Johnston Canyon Campground offers direct access to one of Banff's most popular hiking trails, the Johnston Canyon trail to the Upper and Lower Falls. Features water hookups, dump station, and convenient trailhead location.
The campground provides showers, laundry facilities, playground, toilets, and firewood. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts seeking early morning trail access before crowds arrive. The iconic Johnston Canyon ink pots and waterfalls are accessible directly from camp.
25 km northwest with direct canyon trail access
Lake Louise Tent - Banff National Park
Camping near iconic Lake Louise
Lake Louise Tent Campground provides camping access to the world-famous Lake Louise area, just minutes from the iconic turquoise lake and historic Chateau Lake Louise. Features water hookups, dump station, and proximity to Lake Louise Village amenities.
Amenities include showers, toilets, grills, and picnic tables. Excellent base for exploring Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Plain of Six Glaciers trail. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking access to Banff's most photographed destinations.
57 km from Banff near Lake Louise Village
Rampart Creek - Banff National Park
Remote Icefields Parkway wilderness camping
Rampart Creek Campground offers remote wilderness camping along the legendary Icefields Parkway, one of the world's most scenic drives. Features water hookups, basic amenities, and authentic backcountry atmosphere.
The campground provides toilets, grills, picnic tables, and firewood. Excellent base for exploring Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Glacier, and numerous Icefields Parkway waterfalls. Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking true Rocky Mountain wilderness away from crowds.
88 km north of Lake Louise on Icefields Parkway
Redstreak Campground - Kootenay National Park
Hot springs access in adjacent national park
Redstreak Campground in Kootenay National Park offers camping with direct trail access to Radium Hot Springs, just over the Continental Divide from Banff. Features electrical hookups with 30 amp service, water, sewer, and dump station.
Amenities include showers, toilets, playground, hiking trails, and proximity to the famous Radium Hot Springs pools. Perfect for RV travelers combining Banff exploration with relaxing hot springs visits and scenic drives through Kootenay National Park.
130 km south with hot springs access
Whistlers - Jasper National Park
Jasper's largest campground with hookups
Whistlers Campground is Jasper National Park's largest and most well-equipped campground, located at the end of the scenic Icefields Parkway drive from Banff. Features electrical hookups with 15 amp service, water, sewer, dump station, and pull-through sites.
The campground offers showers, toilets, playground, interpretive programs, and proximity to Jasper townsite. Perfect for extended Banff-Jasper road trip adventures, combining both iconic Canadian Rocky Mountain national parks in one unforgettable journey.
290 km north via scenic Icefields Parkway
Wapiti Campground - Jasper National Park
Year-round camping along Icefields Parkway
Wapiti Campground provides year-round camping access in Jasper National Park, making it ideal for shoulder season and winter RV travelers. Features electrical hookups with 15 amp service, water, dump station, and winterized facilities.
Amenities include showers, toilets, playground, picnic tables, and firewood. Located along the Athabasca River with wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for travelers seeking extended Banff-Jasper exploration or winter Rocky Mountain camping adventures.
285 km north with year-round access
Mount Kidd RV Park
Premium Kananaskis resort with full amenities
Mount Kidd RV Park is a premier private RV resort in Kananaskis Country, offering resort-style camping with stunning mountain views. Features full hookups with 30/15 amp service, water, sewer, dump station, and propane refills.
The property provides 229 sites, playground, general store, fishing access, and year-round operation. Perfect for families and extended-stay RV travelers seeking premium amenities with easy access to both Banff National Park and Kananaskis provincial hiking trails.
60 km southeast in Kananaskis Country
Cowleys Rafter Six Ranch
Ranch camping with horseback riding
Cowleys Rafter Six Ranch offers a unique ranch camping experience just 15 minutes east of Canmore, combining RV camping with authentic Western activities. Features pull-through sites accommodating big rigs, with rustic ranch atmosphere.
The property offers horseback trail rides, hiking trails, wagon rides, and authentic cowboy experiences. Perfect for families seeking unique Rocky Mountain adventures beyond traditional camping, with easy access to both Banff National Park and Canmore.
30 km east with horseback riding activities
RV-Friendly Campgrounds Near Banff National Park
These featured RV parks offer premium amenities for comfortable extended stays, with full hookups and modern facilities specifically designed for RV travelers. Perfect for families and long-term visitors seeking maximum comfort and convenience while exploring the Canadian Rockies.
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court - Banff National Park
These premium RV parks offer exceptional amenities for comfortable extended stays, featuring full hookups, spacious sites, and modern facilities designed specifically for large RVs and long-term Rocky Mountain camping.
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court - Banff National Park
Full hookups with 50-amp service in the park
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court offers the best RV amenities within Banff National Park, with full hookups including 50/30/15 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. Spacious pull-through sites accommodate large RVs and motorhomes with ease.
Big rig friendly design, dump station access, showers, and toilets ensure comfortable extended stays. Walking distance to downtown Banff restaurants and shops. Ideal for extended-stay RV travelers seeking premium hookups within the national park boundaries.
5 minutes from Banff with full hookups
Mount Kidd RV Park
229 sites with full hookups year-round
Mount Kidd RV Park is Kananaskis Country's premier RV destination with 229 full-service sites offering 30/15 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The resort operates year-round with winterized facilities and heated amenities.
Premium features include propane refills, general store, fishing access, playground, and stunning mountain views. Perfect for extended-stay RV travelers seeking resort-quality camping with reliable year-round access to both Banff and Kananaskis hiking.
60 km southeast with 229 full-service sites
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort RV Park
Resort RV park with hot springs and pool
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort RV Park combines full-service RV camping with world-famous natural hot springs access. Features full hookups with 50/30/15 amp service, water, sewer, dump station, pull-through sites, and WiFi throughout.
Resort amenities include natural hot springs pools, heated swimming pool, playground, laundry, and proximity to golf courses. Perfect for RV travelers seeking luxury resort amenities with the ultimate Rocky Mountain relaxation experience after exploring Banff.
130 km south with hot springs pool access
Whispering Spruce Campground and RV Park
Full hookups in Golden with mountain views
Whispering Spruce Campground offers full-service RV camping in Golden, BC, providing an alternative base for exploring both Banff and Yoho National Parks. Features 30 amp full hookups, water, sewer, dump station, pull-through sites, and free WiFi.
Amenities include laundry facilities, RV storage, general store, showers, and spectacular mountain views. Year-round operation with limited winter services. Perfect for RV travelers exploring the Columbia Valley and western approaches to the Canadian Rockies.
80 km west of Lake Louise with full hookups
Jasper Gates Resort and RV
Full hookups near Jasper with lakeside access
Jasper Gates Resort and RV offers premium full-service camping near the eastern entrance to Jasper National Park, perfect for Banff-Jasper road trip travelers. Features full hookups with 50/30 amp service, water, sewer, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly design.
The 17-acre resort provides beach access, boat launch, fishing, hiking trails, playground, general store, and WiFi. Seasonal operation from May through October. Ideal for extended-stay travelers exploring both Banff and Jasper national parks.
40 minutes east of Jasper with lakeside resort
Whistlers - Jasper National Park
Jasper's largest with hookups and amenities
Whistlers Campground is Jasper National Park's flagship camping facility with 781 sites, including electrical hookup sites with 15 amp service, water, sewer, and dump station access. Pull-through sites accommodate large RVs and motorhomes.
Comprehensive amenities include showers, toilets, playground, interpretive programs, and proximity to Jasper townsite. Perfect for RV travelers completing the iconic Banff-Jasper Icefields Parkway journey and seeking reliable hookups in Jasper.
290 km north with 781 sites and hookups
How Far Are Campgrounds From Banff National Park?
Banff area campgrounds range from within the park to approximately 130 km away, with most popular options clustered near Banff townsite, Canmore, and Lake Louise. In-park campgrounds like Tunnel Mountain and Two Jack Lake are 5-15 minutes from downtown Banff, providing the most convenient access to park attractions.
Canmore and Kananaskis campgrounds are 20-60 minutes from Banff townsite, offering alternative bases with often easier booking availability. The Icefields Parkway campgrounds (Rampart Creek, Jasper campgrounds) require 1-4 hour drives but provide access to some of the world's most scenic mountain driving and remote wilderness experiences.
For optimal planning, consider your primary activities. Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon campgrounds provide excellent hiking access but require 30-60 minute drives to Banff townsite. Tunnel Mountain campgrounds offer the best balance of hookups, amenities, and proximity to both town and trailheads.
Why Banff National Park Is a Popular Camping Destination
Banff National Park draws millions of visitors annually as Canada's most iconic wilderness destination and the country's first national park, established in 1885. The park's dramatic Rocky Mountain scenery includes turquoise glacial lakes, towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and abundant wildlife including bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and wolves. Banff's landscapes are among the most photographed in the world.
The park offers world-class outdoor recreation for all skill levels: hiking trails from easy lakeside walks to challenging alpine routes, scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway, wildlife viewing, fishing, canoeing, and winter sports. Iconic destinations like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon provide bucket-list experiences accessible to all visitors.
RV camping near Banff enables flexible, budget-friendly exploration of these wonders. Extended stays allow time for multiple hiking adventures, wildlife observation at dawn and dusk, and visiting attractions on your schedule without rushing between hotels. Banff's accessibility from Calgary (90 minutes), extensive campground network, and diverse camping options make it ideal for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic Canadian wilderness experiences.
Best Time of Year to Camp Near Banff National Park
Peak season (June-September) offers warm weather, full park access, and optimal hiking conditions. However, expect significant crowds at popular attractions and campgrounds, with many sites booking months in advance. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake require shuttle reservations during peak season. Book campgrounds 4-8 weeks ahead for summer visits.
Shoulder seasons (May and September-October) provide excellent value with pleasant weather, stunning fall colors, reduced crowds, and easier campground availability. May brings spring wildlife activity and wildflower blooms, while September-October offers golden larch season and prime elk rutting viewing. These periods often provide the best experience-to-crowding ratio for RV travelers.
Winter camping (November-April) is possible at select campgrounds and offers unique opportunities for northern lights viewing, winter sports, and solitude. However, many park roads close seasonally, temperatures drop significantly, and services are limited. Mount Kidd RV Park operates year-round for winter Rocky Mountain adventures.
RV Camping Tips for Visiting Banff National Park
Reservations & Booking
- Book 4-8 weeks in advance during peak season (June-September) as Parks Canada campgrounds fill quickly
- Consider shoulder seasons (May, September-October) for better availability and spectacular fall colors
- Purchase Parks Canada Discovery Pass for unlimited park entry if staying multiple days
What to Pack
- Pack layers for variable mountain weather with temperatures dropping significantly at night even in summer
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it when hiking in bear country
- Prepare water/sewer adapters and RV essentials for Parks Canada campground connections
Road Safety & Navigation
- Trans-Canada Highway and park roads include narrow sections with wildlife crossings
- Fill fuel tanks in Banff, Lake Louise, or Canmore as remote areas have limited services
- Download offline maps as cellular reception is unreliable in mountain valleys
Wildlife Safety
- Store all food, coolers, and scented items in hard-sided vehicles or provided lockers
- Never approach or feed wildlife and maintain safe distances at all times
- Report bear sightings to Parks Canada and check trail conditions before hiking
Campgrounds vs RV Parks Near Banff: What's the Difference?
Campgrounds
- Primarily Parks Canada facilities within national park boundaries
- Limited or partial hookups with basic amenities focused on camping experience
- Lower cost with nature-focused camping and minimal infrastructure
- Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking authentic Rocky Mountain wilderness experiences
RV Parks
- Full-service private facilities with complete hookups (water, sewer, 50-amp electric)
- Modern amenities including pools, hot tubs, laundry, WiFi, and general stores
- Higher cost with comfort-focused experience and resort-style services
- Perfect for families, extended-stay travelers, and those seeking maximum convenience
Using an RV as a Basecamp Near Banff National Park
RV camping near Banff enables a strategic day-trip exploration approach, establishing a comfortable home base while taking daily excursions throughout the park. This approach provides significant cost savings compared to nightly hotel stays in expensive resort towns while maintaining comfort, flexibility, and control over meals and schedules.
From Banff townsite campgrounds, enjoy quick access to Tunnel Mountain trails, Bow Falls, and downtown amenities. Day trips to Lake Louise (45 minutes), Moraine Lake (1 hour), and Johnston Canyon (25 minutes) are easily accomplished. Alternatively, Lake Louise area camping provides closer access to the park's most famous lakes and connects to the Icefields Parkway for spectacular drives.
Plan 5-10 day camping stays to fully experience Banff's highlights while justifying setup time. Multiple day trips allow visiting different park areas, repeating favorite hikes at optimal times, and improving wildlife viewing opportunities during dawn and dusk. Evening campfire relaxation creates memorable vacation experiences compared to rushing between hotel stays.
Nearby Areas Worth Camping Instead
Jasper National Park, located 290 km north via the Icefields Parkway, offers similar Rocky Mountain scenery with typically fewer crowds than Banff. Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, and the Columbia Icefield provide world-class attractions. Combined Banff-Jasper trips via the scenic Icefields Parkway create unforgettable multi-week RV adventures exploring both iconic Canadian parks.
Kananaskis Country, just east of Banff, provides excellent provincial park camping with stunning mountain scenery and significantly easier campground availability. Mount Kidd RV Park serves as an excellent base for hiking both Kananaskis trails and day trips into Banff. Yoho and Kootenay National Parks to the west offer additional camping options with famous attractions like Takakkaw Falls and Radium Hot Springs.
FAQ: Camping Near Banff National Park
- When should I book my campground reservation near Banff National Park?
Peak season (June-September) requires reservations well in advance. Parks Canada campgrounds open for booking in early January and popular sites like Tunnel Mountain and Two Jack Lakeside fill within hours. Book 4-8 weeks ahead for summer visits. Consider shoulder seasons (May, September-October) for better availability while enjoying pleasant weather and stunning fall colors.
- What are the best campsites for large RVs near Banff?
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court offers the best in-park options for large RVs with 50-amp hookups and pull-through sites designed for big rigs. Mount Kidd RV Park in Kananaskis provides 229 full-service sites with reliable large RV accommodations. Always verify length restrictions and site dimensions when booking Parks Canada campgrounds as some have 35-foot limits.
- Do I need a park pass to camp in Banff National Park?
Yes, all visitors to Banff National Park require a valid Parks Canada entry permit. Daily passes or annual Discovery Passes are available at park gates or online. The Discovery Pass provides unlimited entry to all Canadian national parks and is recommended for stays longer than 7 days. Camping fees are separate from park entry fees.
- What amenities should I expect at Banff area campgrounds?
Parks Canada campgrounds typically offer basic amenities including toilets, water taps, dump stations, and fire pits. Select campgrounds like Tunnel Mountain provide electrical hookups, showers, and laundry. Private RV parks offer full hookups, WiFi, stores, and recreational facilities. Research specific campground amenities before booking as facilities vary significantly.
- How long should I plan to stay near Banff National Park?
5-7 days allows experiencing Banff's main attractions including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, and scenic drives. 10-14 days enables deeper exploration including the Icefields Parkway to Jasper, multiple hiking adventures, and wildlife viewing at optimal times. Banff's vastness rewards extended stays with diverse experiences.
- Is wildlife a concern at Banff campgrounds?
Wildlife safety is essential at all Banff campgrounds. Bears, elk, and other wildlife frequent camping areas. Store all food, coolers, and scented items in hard-sided vehicles or provided bear lockers. Never leave food unattended and follow Parks Canada wildlife guidelines. Carry bear spray when hiking and know how to use it.
- Can I camp year-round near Banff National Park?
Most Parks Canada campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October. Tunnel Mountain Village II and select campgrounds offer limited winter camping. Mount Kidd RV Park in Kananaskis operates year-round with winterized facilities. Winter camping requires additional preparation for cold temperatures and limited services.
- What is the best season for wildlife viewing near Banff?
Early morning and evening provide best wildlife viewing year-round. Spring and fall offer prime viewing as animals are more active and visible. September elk rutting season draws wildlife enthusiasts to see bull elk displays. The Icefields Parkway and Bow Valley Parkway are excellent wildlife corridors for viewing bears, elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Ready to start your Banff National Park RV adventure? Browse our selection of RV rentals today and find the perfect vehicle for exploring Canada's most iconic national park and experiencing world-class Rocky Mountain camping.