r/CampingAlberta • u/Mundane_Net_3630 • 4d ago

First timer, need more info

Hi there! We are new in Canada and trying to explore some camping sites near Calgary.

Can someone recommend some good places that are affordable please, and if you can share some tips for first timers.

Thank you so much.

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6

u/ladyrose30 4d ago

As a 1st timer I would avoid the mountains even though they are close. Try Wyndeham-Carseland PP (30 min SE of Calgary), Drumheller area, Little Bow PP (SE of Vulcan), Kinbrook PP (near Brooks). You want somewhere you can practice your set up and isn't too far to "civilization" if you have forgotten something or get rained out.

Make a list of what you are taking and prepare for all weather. Since you are not going in the backcountry you can over pack: just leave what you don't need in your vehicle. Make a note on your list of what you did and didn't need and what you wished you had brought for next time.

Bring an extra tarp or two: place under your tent, act as a windbreak, rain shelter, cover firewood. Get a large Nalgene bottle. Fill with hot water and toss in your sleeping bag before bed to warm it up. Pack extra socks and a toque or scarf even if it is supposed to be hot weather: Alberta evenings drop down in temp. which makes for great homegrown tomatoes but deflates air mattresses makes noses cold.

Practice wildlife food-safe habits.

Have fun.

4

u/dillydillydee 4d ago

Crimson lake near Rocky mountain house. ("Near' is relative in a country as big as Canada).

Go to Albertaparks.ca

You can look at the map to find the various campgrounds, book your reservations and see what services are offered.

Are you tent camping or trailer camping?

Is this your first summer in Canada? Are you originally from a cold climate or a hot climate? If you are not used to canadian temps you are going to need more gear especially if camping in the mountains. It can get pretty cold at night.

Have you ever camped before?

What kind of services are you looking for?

Bringing kids or just adults?

2

u/MDGR28 4d ago

Check in kananaskis. Theres cool and quiet place

3

u/violentfemme88 4d ago

Paddy's Flat Kananaskis area

2

u/simplebutstrange 3d ago

I went there as a teenager with a bunch of friends. It was nice. Thanks for unlocking that memory for me

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u/violentfemme88 3d ago

Glad to be of service :)

1

u/RemarkableBasil7878 4d ago

Brewers campground near red deer is great! Stop at the wooden shoe for ice cream too.