Booking Wars: Securing Campsites with Parks Canada
Navigating Backcountry Camping with Parks Canada in Alberta: A 2024 Guide
Many of us enjoy backcountry camping in Alberta, but securing a spot is becoming nearly impossible as adventure enthusiasts from all around the world compete in Parks Canada’s online Queue system. To help ease the competitive headache, RadMums is here to help you understand the key dates and process for a successful trip (or attempt…) in 2024.
Parks Canada opens Alberta backcountry camping reservations for the upcoming season on Monday, January 29, 2024 with staggered booking dates varying by region. Check key dates here. The demand for popular sites is high, making it imperative to be ready when the virtual gates open.
STEP 1: Create and ensure your account is up to date
One of the first steps is to create a Parks Canada account or ensure that your existing one is up to date. This will streamline the reservation process, allowing you to move quickly when the coveted spots become available.
STEP 2: Familiarize yourself with the backcountry locations and zones
After setting up or updating your account, familiarize yourself with the available backcountry campsites in Alberta. Parks Canada provides detailed information on each site, including trail difficulty, distance, and amenities.
Given the high demand, it’s advisable to have a list of backup choices and dates in case your first options are already booked.
STEP 3: The booking process
The booking process itself is straightforward but competitive (in the most frustrating way that you can’t control!). Prior to 8am, everyone is placed into a “Waiting Room”. It doesn’t matter how early you’re in the “Waiting Room” because at 8am, all participants are randomly assigned a number in the Queue with an estimated time of entry. Do NOT be discouraged if you are +20,000 since it can go surprisingly fast and sometimes the availability will surprise you.
HOT TIP: Having access to multiple devices (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.) will provide you with a chance to get assigned different entry numbers in the Queue. Having multiple browsers open on one device does NOT work.
When it’s your turn, navigate to the backcountry camping section and select your desired location and dates. Using “Backcountry Zone” tends to be easiest in our experience. It’s a race against time, as popular sites can fill up within minutes so make sure to have your payment details ready to help ensure a seamless transaction.
HOT TIP: Know your planned access point for backcountry bookings. This MUST be provided to book multi-day trips. Multi-day trips can be exceptionally difficult to book. Aim to secure most popular campsites first since additional spots will often open throughout the summer.
In past years, it’s been possible to book multiple sites/locations in one transaction however many people have also been “kicked out” as the system overloads. It’s always a gamble deciding whether to secure the sites in your cart or keep looking.
HOT TIP: Please note that once you complete your booking, you exit the booking process and will need to join the Queue again.
STEP 4: Check for spots frequently
Spots will often become available on booking day as people juggle what they are able to secure so it’s worthwhile checking back if your initial location/dates aren’t available.
If your schedule allows, it’s also useful to check back regularly throughout summer since cancellations are frequent and sites often open up.
In conclusion, successfully booking a backcountry camping trip with Parks Canada in Alberta requires preparation, speed, and flexibility. By understanding the key dates, creating or updating your Parks Canada account, and having backup options in mind, you’ll increase your chances of securing the ideal camping spot in this outdoor paradise.
May the odds be ever in your favour and happy camping!