AlbertaParksca

Alberta Parks

Backcountry Camping Rules and Guidelines

    General

    • Tents should be set up on the pads provided. A maximum of 6 people and one tent per site is permitted. Exceptions:
    • Guaranteed check-in time is 4 p.m.; checkout time is 2 p.m..

    Cooking, Cleaning and Hydration

    • We recommend cooking with a portable stove. 
    • Never assume water in the backcountry is safe to drink. Use boiled or treated water for drinking, preparing food, brushing teeth, etc.
    • Pack out all food waste and garbage. Do not bury, burn or dump leftovers in the outhouse. 
    • Never clean pots and dishes in a water source; carry water 50 meters away to wash your dishes, then dump grey water in the outhouse or designated grey water disposals. 
    • Wash or bathe at least 50 meters from any water source. 
    • Keep all attractants away from wildlife. Store food, garbage, toiletry items, and clothing used while cooking in the lockers provided. If there is no locker provided, hang a bear bag. Always secure your food before you sleep or leave camp. Never store food or toiletries in your tent. 

    Disposal of Human Waste

    • Always use outhouses when available. 
    • If an outhouse is not available: 
      • Urinate/defecate at least 50 meters from trails and water sources. 
      • Defecate in a hole 15-20 cm deep. Be sure to bury your waste. 
      • Pack out toilet paper. 
    • If you are travelling on snow, ice, or in the high alpine, pack out your waste. 

    Fires

    • Fires are only permitted in metal fire rings, when provided. 
    • You can burn firewood if provided but be aware that supplies may be short. It is not permitted to collect or burn dead wood.  
    • At campgrounds where firewood is provided, an axe is at the woodpile for splitting wood 
    • Do not burn garbage as it attracts wildlife.  
    • Completely extinguish any fires before you sleep or leave camp. Read about campfire safety before you go. 

    Resources

Updated: Jun 4, 2025