Camp and RV for Free in Alberta and British Columbia
The not-so-secret secrets of camping for free in Western Canada
Contents
- Introduction
- Websites to Find Free Camping Spots:
- Books, Apps and other Resources to Find Free Camping
- What to Expect:
- What Do These Places provide or look like?
- Essential Tips for Free Camping:
- Who Should Try Free Camping:
Introduction
Explore the stunning wilderness of Alberta and British Columbia for free! Discover hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and the thrill of rustic camping. Learn everything you need to know: where to find free campsites, what to expect, and how to prepare for your adventure.
Free Camping is for the Adventurous that are Happy with Rustic
Free camping offers a unique outdoor experience for budget-conscious adventurers. It’s your chance to escape the crowds and connect with nature’s raw beauty. But before you pack your bags, let’s delve into the world of free camping in Alberta and British Columbia.
Websites to Find Free Camping Spots:
Free camping in Alberta and British Columbia can be found on government owned land. Below are some resources. If you want to find something quick and easy Free camping might not be for you, book a campground. Free camping takes more time to research and time to explore.
Public Land Use Zones (PLUZ) Alberta
- Alberta has about 18 PLUZ, the maps show where you can camp, use off-road vehicles and more.
BC Recreation Areas
- Not all Rec areas allow camping and some are paid camping - the website explains if you can camp or not.
Alberta Parks Random Camping
- These are more backcountry camping focused though the above resources also include backcountry options if you choose.
Other Websites
- Search Facebook groups for more details and asking people what they enjoy
Books, Apps and other Resources to Find Free Camping
- Camp Free in B.C.: Explore, Hike, Fish, Bike, Paddle, Relax book
- Backroad Maps books - they provide maps that show camping areas which may or may not be free. These maps a personal favorite, once you open one and see all the info you’ll understand.
- iOverland App - free app that a community shares where they camped for free, sometimes includes images
What to Expect:
- Wilderness Setting: Prepare for a true backcountry experience or at least a rustic one. Free camping can range from the middle of no where to rustic campground settings. Embrace the beauty of nature, but remember, it’s wild and unpredictable and often out of service for help.
- Limited Facilities or None: Free campsites often lack amenities like toilets, showers, or hookups. Most Recreation Sites at least have pit toliets, many PLUZ camping areas have no toliets. Pack accordingly!
- Variable Crowds: Depending on location and season, you might encounter few people or larger groups, especially during holidays. Because most free camping isn’t monitored by campground attendees you can get wild noisey crowds depending on where you go.
- Off-Road Adventures: Some free camping areas allow off-road vehicles and recreational activities like hunting or fishing. Some require 4x4 vehicles to access. Do your research.
What Do These Places provide or look like?
These camp free zones are usually on large areas of land and can be in the prairies or in the mountains. The areas may be actively logged, allow hunting, shooting, off-roading, boating, hiking, climbing, biking and just about anything else you can do outdoors. The wide variety of permitted activities may make you think twice if these are the right areas for you. There may be some designated camping spots but usually you camp anywhere which creates a degree of adventure trying to find and decide on where you want to set up your camp. Government officials may stop by to check on fire safety or if there is a fire ban ensure the rules are being kept, but there are no ‘quiet times’ or official to stop a rowdy party from happening all night long. This is where deciding on where to camp may take more time to ensure you find a space to suit your expectations.
Essential Tips for Free Camping:
- Research Thoroughly: Understand specific regulations and restrictions for your chosen location.
- Be Self-Sufficient: Pack everything you need, including food, water, sanitation solutions (shovel for tent camping), and first-aid supplies.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is suitable for potentially rough terrain, especially if venturing off-road.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the environment by practicing responsible camping principles. Pack out all trash and minimize your impact on the wilderness. Bury your poop WELL and away from water!
Who Should Try Free Camping:
- Adventure Seekers: Free camping is ideal for those who enjoy exploring new places and embracing the unexpected. No matter how much you research going to these areas is unknown - maybe all the easy camping areas are full, so you need a backup plan.
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: This is a fantastic option for cost-effective outdoor adventures.
- Nature Lovers: Immerse yourself in the beauty and solitude of the wilderness.
If you love adventure, exploring new areas, happy with rustic camping and can roll with the punches then get out and go to these places. They are wild and beautiful!
