Alberta Camping Reservations Postponed Due to Website Glitches

Alberta campers eager to secure spots for the upcoming season are facing unexpected delays. Technical issues with the province's reservation website have forced officials to postpone the opening of camping reservations until February.

The glitches have affected the booking system for several popular locations, including Banff National Park and Lake O'Hara backcountry campgrounds. To ensure fair access for all, the new launch dates are as follows:

February 3, 2026, at 8 a.m. MT

- Waterton Lakes National Park

- Elk Island National Park

- Wood Buffalo National Park

- Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

February 10, 2026, at 8 a.m. MT

- Lake O'Hara Backcountry Camping

February 12, 2026, at 8 a.m. MT

- Banff National Park, including:

- Lake Louise

- Icefields Parkway

These postponements have caused frustration among campers who had planned to book their sites in January. The delays are particularly concerning for those aiming to secure spots during peak summer months, when demand is highest.

Alberta Parks has been working to address these technical issues and improve the reservation system. In 2024, they launched a new booking platform to streamline the process and enhance user experience. Despite these efforts, the current glitches have highlighted the challenges of managing high demand and ensuring equitable access to camping facilities.

Campers are advised to create their accounts on the reservation website ahead of the new launch dates and to have backup options in mind, as popular sites are expected to book up quickly once reservations open. Additionally, it's important to check campground operating dates, as many do not open until late spring.

For those unable to secure reservations in Banff, alternative options include Jasper National Park, Kootenay or Yoho National Parks, and various Alberta Provincial Parks, which use a rolling booking window. Alberta Parks reservations typically open 90 days in advance for individual sites and 180 days in advance for comfort and group camping, with bookings opening daily at 9:00 a.m. MT.

As the new reservation dates approach, campers are encouraged to stay informed and prepared to ensure a successful booking experience.