(Photo 33977298 © Welcomia | Dreamstime.com)

By Joel Mendelson

Camping season underway in Alberta

May 17, 2024 | 12:03 PM

Get ready to pitch your tents as the May long weekend marks the start of camping season in Alberta.

There are more than 470 provincial parks and recreation areas, including 250 campgrounds, which can accommodate nearly 14,000 campsites. Alberta offers a variety of sites, including those that are reservable, available on a first-come first-served basis, and set up for group camping.

CAMPING IN ALBERTA PARKS

The government notes that over 68,000 reservations were made as of May 1, which accounts for 231,151 nights of camping.

Reservations can be made online up to 90 days ahead of a trip for individual and backcountry campsites, or 180 days in advance for group and comfort camping.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Those without a reservation can use the ‘Camping this Weekend’ feature to find a reservable site.

WILDFIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

Officials with the Government of Alberta are reminding new and returning campers to be cognizant when making fires, regardless of whether they are campfires, in burn barrels, by hot engines etc., in light of wildfires in the province.

Alberta’s wildland firefighters are working tirelessly to extinguish blazes across northern parts of the province. One key part of prevention efforts is to observe fire bans.

Multiple regions throughout Alberta are under partial or full fire bans. All campers and day-site users should check on the status in their respective areas.

The province says that campfires account for the highest percentage of human-caused wildfires, which are entirely preventable. All campers are reminded to properly dispose of their fire and materials, and ensure the ashes are cool to the touch.

‘WILDERNESS CAMPING’ ON PUBLIC LAND

Alberta’s public land offers a range of options, including unique and secluded camping grounds, as well as established ones with amenities.

For a more rustic experience, campers can explore areas in remote parts of the province as these spots are often located along gravel roads and offer a true backcountry experience.

Campers, backpackers, horse packers who plan to sleep on public land require a Public Lands Camping Pass. The pass is applicable along the Eastern Slopes of the Oakley Mountains from Grande Prairie to Waterton Lakes National Park.

Children and youth under the age 18 do not require a pass.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.