Banff & Jasper with no reservations

[John&Vicki]

I'm itching to go to Canada late June, early July, mainly Banff and Jasper. I note that there are many, many campgrounds in Canada and I'm wondering if it's possible to head that way during peak season with no reservations and just wing it?

Thanks,
John

[Mikeyman]

I spend a lot of time in both Banff and Jasper. The answer is, it depends. I just (tried) to book a holiday at the end of July and there were few sites open with power. You might find something easier without services, but it depends how you want to camp. The best way would be to plan your dates and check the Parks Canada website to make a reservation sooner than later. This year, they opened reservations in January, so they're pretty full up. http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/voyage-travel/reserve.aspx 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783) Also, beware that there are park fees that you need to pay in addition to the camp site fees... And reservation fees... ugh.

[PKI]

Just back.

In week 2 of June we were able to get a site in Banff at Lake Louise. We went up to Jasper and they were full.

As folks recommended, reservations are needed after the schools let out in the second half of June.

Good luck and travel safe. Pat