Guide: 6 camping spots to hit up near Calgary this summer

Have you been feeling the call of the wild? Are you itching for a morning surrounded by nature, where the birds are chirping and the hustle & bustle of the city feel far away? Yeah, us too. But we’ve got a solution, and it comes in the form of some of the best camping spots that aren’t too far from Calgary. So, we’ve teamed up with Mark’s to get you geared up for these six awesome places to camp this summer and fall.

Mark’s has been working directly with government agencies and public health for over a decade to introduce Canadians to a revolutionary new product – WindRiver Tick and Mosquito-Repellent clothing and accessories. This collection has permethrin bonded into the fabric to offer odourless and invisible protection against ticks and mosquitoes for up to 70 washes. We’re talking shorts, shirts, jackets, pants, and even hats!

So, when you’re venturing out to these gorgeous camping spots, set yourself up with some WindRiver gear. Let Mark’s take care of your worries about ticks and mosquitoes, so you can take care of the nature escape ahead of you.

Let’s plan an adventure, shall we?

TWO JACK LAKESIDE CAMPING

Sure, Two Jack Lake might be great for winter skating, but in the summer it really hits its peak. With a 23-site walk-in tenting area, washroom facilities on site, and picnic shelters available, it should be obvious that this spot makes an incredible summer destination. Two Jack Lake has close access to Banff, along with all of the secluded views as if you were backcountry camping.

Distance from Calgary: 1.5 hours

WRITING-ON-STONE PROVINCIAL PARK

This might be our favourite hidden gem on the list, located in the beautiful Milk River Valley surrounded by cottonwood trees. This campsite has something for everyone, from relaxing on the beach and floating the river, to hiking through hoodoos and checking out the pictographs. Plus, it was recently added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so you know it’s a world-class spot.

Distance from Calgary: 3.5 hours

LITTLE ELBOW CAMPGROUND

West of Bragg Creek, Little Elbow is a great campground located just off of the Elbow River. But don’t let the accessibility fool you, this has all the feels of a secluded nature escape. With a variety of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding, and the river ideal for fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, even the most active person won’t lose interest here.

Distance from Calgary: 1 hour

CHAIN LAKES

The foothills give you the best of both worlds, This lakeside camping spot gives you long sightlines of the prairies mixed with rolling hills and topped off with views of the mountain peaks. You can fill your days with beach activities, swimming, windsurfing or sailing, and spend the night watching the sun go down by the fire.

Distance from Calgary: 1.5 hours

SUNDANCE LODGES

Okay, so technically this is closer to “glamping”, but we couldn’t not include it in the list. At Sundance Lodges you can treat yourself to a unique camping experience in a variety of tipis or trapper’s tents, OR stay traditional and book one of their unserviced RV and tent sites. The tipis are made from Sioux canvas, and hand-painted with native-style designs, and both tipis and trapper’s tents come equipped with wooden floors, beds, and heaters.

Distance from Calgary: 1 hour

PETER LOUGHEED PROVINCIAL PARK

This gorgeous provincial park has over a dozen campgrounds to choose from, giving you the option of serviced camping or backcountry camping. For those with kids, we would recommend Elkwood Campground for the interpretive programs, playgrounds, and close access to Kananaskis Lakes. No kids? Well then, Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is truly yours to explore.

Distance from Calgary: 1 hr 30 mins

Well then folks, there you have it. Get those campground resos booked and make the most out of your summer!