While it might be a winter wonderland outside and camping might not be top of mind, Parks Canada is starting to open up reservations for 2024 in mid-January. Mark January 19 at 8:00 a.m. PT on your calendars for Parks Canada-operated sites in British Columbia. Meanwhile, sites in Ontario will open on February 5, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. ET. The latest launch date is February 13 at 8:30 NT for sites in Newfoundland and Labrador. Popular spots will fill up quickly, so it’s important to book early. Find the full list of launch dates and times here for Parks Canada-operating camping sites.
Let’s dive into the inside scoop on securing your 2024 campsite.
Parks Canada camping reservation tips and tricks
Psst. Have you reviewed Parks Canada’s list of booking tips and tricks? You’ll want to read this before launch day. First, put a notification in your calendar. With many eager campers looking to secure a campsite, you’ll want to book as soon as possible.
- Before attempting to book a reservation, you’ll need to create an account—especially if you haven’t made a reservation since March 3, 2023.
- Access your account through the third-party site or GCKey and avoid using Internet Explorer or older versions of Microsoft Edge.
- Practice, practice, practice. It’s not dramatic to say that sites book up in literal seconds. Know how to search for your ideal camping location before launch time.
- And, while we hope it doesn’t come to this, make a plan B, C, and even D. You don’t want to be the person who doesn’t get their first choice, but inevitably someone will.
- Visit reservation.pc.gc.ca or call 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3283) to book.
Camping 101
Before you run off and book your first trip, read this refresher on camping protocols.
Types of campsites
Frontcountry camping is great for beginners, usually equipped with washrooms, showers, kitchen shelters, electrical, sewer, and water hookups, and Wi-Fi zones. They are typically easy to access by car and RV.
Backcountry camping, on the other hand, is for people who want a bit of adventure and challenge. While they often come with a tent pad, picnic table, outhouse, and firepit, some sites are simple.
Camping basics
Need guidance on what to bring and how to set up shop? Parks Canada has you covered on the packing and setting up tent fronts. Plus, we can teach you how to start a campfire and what recipes to make when embers start to burn.
Here’s the camping tech I used during a week-long canoe trip
Most importantly, have fun and be safe! Remember to follow the leave-no-trace policy and check site-specific restrictions like storing your food in animal-proof canisters or lockers when you visit a bare campsite and grab backcountry camping permits if needed. Happy camping!
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