Exploring Western Canada’s Best Hidden Gem Camping Spots in British Columbia & Alberta

Spring is just around the corner, and so is the start of the camping season! Camping is one of the most popular activities in Canada, and the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes attract campers from across the nation (and around the world) in record numbers. British Columbia and Alberta are home to some of the most sought-after destinations, including Banff National Park, which welcomes over 4.28 million visitors a year.

Thankfully, both provinces still have plenty of campsites that fly under the radar. We’ve rounded up our top 8 picks so you can uncover hidden gem camping spots this year, and maybe even stumble upon your new favourite getaway.

British Columbia

1. Dry Gulch Provincial Park

Just minutes from Kootenay National Park and Radium Hot Springs, this campground is one of B.C.’s best-kept secrets. Nestled among trees and close to a variety of local attractions and outdoor activities, it’s an ideal base for exploring the park and soaking in the hot springs.

The campground offers both reservable sites and first-come, first-served options. Find booking and more information here.

2. Emory Creek

Located in the lush landscape of the Fraser Canyon region, Emory Creek is the perfect riverside escape. With various attractions nearby including Yale Historic Site, Othello Tunnels, Alexandra Bridge, and Hell’s Gate Airtram, it’s the perfect place for local tourism, fishing, or just simply lounging at the campsite.

Emory Creek Provincial Park offers 35 first-come, first-serve campsites, while Emory Bar RV Park (privately owned) takes reservations. For provincial park information, click here. To be directed to reservable site options, click here.

3. Kettle River Recreation Area

The Kettle Valley region boasts historic stops, sightseeing opportunities, and outdoor recreation! Kettle River Recreation Area is an underrated campground, with direct access to the river (perfect for tubing and canoeing) and a historic section of the Canadian Pacific Railway that passes right through the site.

This campground has 85 reservable sites and 28 that are first-come, first-served camping. Find booking and more information here.

4. Strathcona Provincial Park

Despite being the oldest park in British Columbia and having breath-taking rugged mountain views, this central-island spot remains largely untouched. Campers can enjoy more visitor-oriented areas for swimming and watersports at Buttle Lake or quiet, backcountry hikes and alpines throughout the rest of the park.

Reservable RV camping is available at Buttle Lake Campground and Ralph River Campground. Find booking and more information here.

Alberta

1. Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park

Considered one of the most hidden gem camping spots in the province, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Park offers incredible views of the Red Deer river valley and badlands. The park is also an excellent area for birding and spotting unique wildlife (like turkey vultures) and has a similar landscape, but less crowded experience, to Dinosaur Provincial Park.

There are two campgrounds available in the area, Tolman East Campground and Tolman West Campground, both well suited for RVs. You can find general park information here.

2. Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Located approximately 135 km west of Calgary, this park is full of lakeside activities and hiking/biking trails. Despite being surrounded by the Rockies, rich vegetation, and sparkling lakes, it remains one of the province’s best kept secrets, providing a great alternative for those wanting to visit the region without the crowds at Banff or Jasper.

Plenty of camping is available, with RV hookups at Boulton Creek and Elkwood campgrounds. For booking and more information, click here.

3. Ram Falls Provincial Park

This scenic campground is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, getting its name from the stunning, 65-foot waterfall situated in the park. The area is very rugged and natural, offering a serene escape for campers.

There are 54 unserviced sites available at this campground. Please note due to its uncrowded and remote camping nature, road conditions can be rough. Find booking and more information here.

4. Wyndham-Carseland Provincial Park

Situated along the Bow River, this park has a large camping area that offers privacy and plenty of space. Located just 70 km from Calgary, it provides a relaxing city-escape for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or simply just lounging by the river.

Campsites are unserviced and there are 178 sites available. For booking and more information, click here.

We hope this list helped you discover a new hidden gem camping spot to try this season!

Ready to kick off your camping adventures in a new RV? Explore our roundup of the most affordable travel trailers of 2026, then stop by one of our 10 Western Canada locations. Our experienced team will be happy to help you find the perfect RV to match your lifestyle and budget.

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