Backcountry camping

Immerse yourself in the tranquil wilderness

The ultimate in overnight adventure: just you, your gear and the great outdoors, far from the beaten path.

What's included?

Each backcountry campsite is unique! A detailed list of amenities is available when you make a reservation or on the website of your destination.

Your site may include

Tent pad
Picnic tables
Outhouses
Firewood
Fire pit

Please remember that fires should be made in accordance with local fire regulations.

How much does it cost?

Prices may vary depending on the time of the year, the level of service and the location. Reserve online or go to the fees page of your destination to find pricing information.

What should you bring?

This list is not exhaustive! Look at our camping checklist or download the Parks Canada App where you can edit and save your own packing checklist.

Bedding, sleeping pad and pillow
Flashlight, lantern or headlamp
Personal gear: clothing, accessories and toiletries
Personal safety items: whistle, first aid kit, sunscreen and bug repellant
Cooking equipment, camp stove, food and drinks, reusable water bottles, etc.
Plastic bags to pack out garbage and rope and bag to hang food and toiletries (some sites provide lockers or cables for this purpose)
Entertainment items (i.e. binoculars, books, cards or sporting equipment, etc.)
Other (matches or lighter, rope, etc.)

Things to keep in mind

Food

All food or food-related items and toiletries should be stored inside wildlife-proof lockers or suspended.
When washing dishes, strain the bits of food waste and pack them out.

Fire

Be aware of any restrictions your location may have.

Respect

Respect your surroundings. Leave no trace and pack out what you pack in.
Please be respectful and maintain reasonable noise levels.

Other

Verify trail conditions, closures and weather updates.
Leave a trip itinerary to a trusted contact.
Check with your location or in the Parks Canada Reservation Service for complete details and guidelines.