Explore top stargazing campsites across Western Canada for an unforgettable International Dark Sky Week experience.
There’s something incredible about leaving the glow of the city behind and watching the night sky come alive with stars. During International Dark Sky Week (April 13–20, 2026), that experience takes on even more meaning. This yearly event celebrates the beauty of natural darkness and the night sky while raising awareness about the impact of light pollution.
If you’re looking for the perfect way to take part, why not turn it into an adventure? Pack up the RV and head for some of Western Canada’s most breathtaking dark sky destinations. From national dark sky reserves to iconic stargazing spots, we’ve rounded up the best places to camp and soak in the stars for an unforgettable night under the open sky.
Elk Island National Park
Elk Island is a Dark-Sky Preserve located in Alberta and a prime spot for viewing meteor showers and the northern lights. Although the park is open during the winter, camping isn’t available until May/June. However, you can easily find spots at several nearby locations including Lamont RV Park and Campground and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park.
Jasper National Park
If you’re looking for the best stargazing campsites in Canada, Jasper is the second largest Dark-Sky Preserve in the world! Hosting its own Dark-Sky Festival in October, this national park boasts breathtaking starry views during all months of the year. Winter camping is available at Wapiti on a first-come, first serve basis until May.
Waterton Lakes National Park
The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park as a combined International Dark Sky Park. They share a commitment to protecting and preserving the night sky, eliminating light pollution. Winter camping is available until April 30 at Pass Creek Day Use Area on a first-come, first serve basis. Regular camping at Townsite and Belly River Campground opens in May.
Cultus Lake Provincial Park
Tucked away in the Fraser Valley, Cultus Lake offers a serene escape from city life and light pollution. Located less than 20 km from McDonald Park (a designated Dark-Sky Preserve), campers can take a quick drive over to the civic park in the evening to enjoy the darkness provided by the surrounding mountains, which act like a huge amphitheater.
*Please note the park gates close at 9pm, so it is advised to leave vehicles parked outside the gate.
E.C. Manning Park
With minimal light pollution, Manning Park is one of the best stargazing campsites in the province. Constellations, meteor showers, and even the Milky Way are visible to the naked eye.
Winter camping is available at Skyview Campground and Lightning Lake Day-Use area.
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
This shared park between Alberta and Saskatchewan is home to one of Canada’s designated Dark-Sky Preserves. Full of grassy hills and wide-open areas, visitors can expect to experience some of the darkest skies in the region. Although camping on the Saskatchewan side remains closed until May, visitors can access year-round RV camping at Elkwater Campground on the Alberta side.
Prince Albert National Park
Thanks to its remote location and natural landscape, Prince Albert National Park offers unbeatable views of the Milky Way, constellations, and Aurora Borealis! If conditions are right, you can often experience a clear reflection of the stars and northern lights on Waskesiu Lake. Although park campgrounds close during the winter, visitors can access drive-in camping at Birch Bay.
*Please note Birch Bay camping is made for tents and smaller units like Class B vans.
Ready to experience the magic of the night sky? We hope this guide to Western Canada’s best stargazing campsites inspires you to hitch up your travel trailer, head off the beaten path, and soak in the stars during International Dark Sky Week.
Looking for more unforgettable RV adventures? Don’t miss our guide to the 8 Best Hidden Gem Camping Spots in BC and Alberta.
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