Bow Valley Campground

Rockies · Alberta Parks · Bow Valley Provincial Park · Updated

Mount Yamnuska from Middle Lake in Bow Valley Provincial Park.
Mount Yamnuska from Middle Lake in Bow Valley Provincial Park. The photo shows the park area, not the campsites.
Photo: Georgialh, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A large, treed campground on the Bow River at the mouth of Kananaskis Country. Most sites have power and water, and there are showers, flush toilets, a sani-dump and interpretive programs. A popular, easy-to-reach base for families coming from Calgary.

Family-friendlyPlaygroundPet-friendly

The official page doesn't describe nearby hikes or activities. Ask the operator or see the official page.

Why these tags? (sources)
  • Family-friendly: “Enjoy Interpretive programs, concession, playground and showers.” Alberta Parks page
  • Playground: “Enjoy Interpretive programs, concession, playground and showers.” Alberta Parks page
  • Pet-friendly: “Keep your pet on a leash.” Alberta Parks page

Cost

Typical cost per night: about $36 (approximate average of the listed rates, before extras)

Nightly rates by site type (CAD)
Unserviced$31.00
Power/Water$47.00
Walk-in Tenting$31.00

Source: official rates page. Rates checked October 2026, confirm before booking.

Campground details

ParkBow Valley Provincial Park
OperatorCedar & Spruce Campgrounds (for Alberta Parks)
LocationAbout 30 km east of Canmore, just north of Hwy 1 off Hwy 1X, along the Bow River.
SeasonApr 30 - Oct 12 (reservable/serviced season: Apr 30 - Oct 11) (2026 dates; they change yearly and with weather)
Site typesUnserviced, Power
Unserviced: 34 sites; Power/Water: 128 sites (15/30 amp as listed); Walk-in Tenting: 7 sites
RV lengthNo maximum RV length published on the campground page; check site details when booking.
ShowersYes
Sani-dumpYes
Flush toiletsYes
Other amenitiesAmphitheatre, Firepits, Firewood Sold, Grocery/Supply Store, Pit/Vault Toilets, Playground, Power, Secure Food Storage, Water - Hookup, Water - Tap
ReservationsAlberta Parks reservation system (online or 1-877-537-2757); bookings open 90 days ahead
Book or check availability
Official pagewww.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: Kananaskis Country.