Bow River Campground
Photo: Khoshhat, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A small, pretty campground right next to the Bow River, minutes from Canmore. Most sites have power and water, plus a few walk-in tent sites. Handy for exploring Canmore and Banff without staying in the national park.
HikingFishingPaddling/BoatingBikingPet-friendly
Nearby: “Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling in the area.” (Alberta Parks page)
Why these tags? (sources)
- Hiking: “Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling in the area.” Alberta Parks page
- Fishing: “Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling in the area.” Alberta Parks page
- Paddling/Boating: “Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling in the area.” Alberta Parks page
- Biking: “Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling in the area.” Alberta Parks page
- Pet-friendly: “Keep your pet on a leash.” Alberta Parks page
Cost
Typical cost per night: about $39 (approximate average of the listed rates, before extras)
| Power/Water | $47.00 |
|---|---|
| Walk-in Tenting | $31.00 |
Source: official rates page. Rates checked October 2026, confirm before booking.
Campground details
| Park | Bow Valley Provincial Park |
|---|---|
| Operator | Cedar & Spruce Campgrounds (for Alberta Parks) |
| Location | About 5 km east of Canmore on Hwy 1, beside the Bow River. |
| Season | Apr 30 - Oct 12 (reservable/serviced season: Apr 30 - Oct 11) (2026 dates; they change yearly and with weather) |
| Site types | Unserviced, Power Power/Water: 56 sites (/30 amp as listed); Walk-in Tenting: 7 sites |
| RV length | No maximum RV length published on the campground page; check site details when booking. |
| Showers | Yes |
| Sani-dump | No |
| Flush toilets | Yes |
| Other amenities | Accessible, Firepits, Firewood Sold, Pit/Vault Toilets, Power, Secure Food Storage, Water - Hookup, Water - Pump |
| Reservations | Alberta Parks reservation system (online or 1-877-537-2757); bookings open 90 days ahead Book or check availability |
| Official page | www.albertaparks.ca |
Details are from the official/operator pages listed above, checked October 2026. Seasons, rates, closures and rules change; confirm with the operator before you go. Check fire bans and road conditions. Explore: Canmore.
