Here’s when Parks Canada reservations open for 2026 in Alberta

It’s already the last month of 2025, and 2026 is calling our name. From places to parks, it’s going to be one for the books, and we can’t wait to get started. New year, new you. Things are looking up!

Luckily, we’re already off to an outdoorsy start here in Canada with the return of the Canada Strong Pass. You can enjoy free admission and 25 per cent off camping and overnight stays with Parks Canada from Dec. 12 to Jan. 15, 2026, as well as June 19 to Sept. 7, 2026.

That means Canada’s national parks are throwing open the doors this holiday season. If you’re keen to reserve a Parks Canada spot for camping, roofed accommodations, shuttles, and more, Parks Canada will launch reservations for the 2026 visitor season on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026.

It’s almost a new year, which means it’s time to experience the best of Canada’s national park system. Here’s when to get the jump on it here in Alberta!

Reservation dates open January 2026

To camp or book an overnight stay at a Canadian national park, you need to reserve a spot. Parks Canada will launch reservations for the 2026 visitor season in January. In Alberta, they include these national parks and associated campgrounds:

Banff National Park

Tunnel Mountain, Protection Mountain, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Two Jack Lakeside, Castle Mountain, Rampart Creek and Silverhorn Creek campgrounds.

Reservation launch date: Friday, Jan. 23, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. MT

Elk Island National Park

Astotin Lake and Oster Lake backcountry.

Reservation launch date: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. MT

Jasper National Park

Whistlers, Miette, Wapiti and Overflow.

Reservation launch date: Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. MT

Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

Heritage camping, Rocky Mountain House campground, dream catcher workshop and satchel making workshop.

Reservation launch date: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. MT

Waterton Lakes National Park

Backcountry camping in Bertha Bay, Boundary Bay, Crandell Lake, Alderson Lake, Bertha Lake, Goat Lake, Lone Lake, Snowshoe and Twin Lakes.

Reservation launch date: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. MT

Wood Buffalo National Park

Pine Lake campground.

Reservation launch date: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. MT

We wish you the best in securing your campsite for the season, Alberta. Let us know where you’re excited to visit this year!

Related Posts:
An exclusive look inside Everwild, a new ritual spa experience near Calgary
Jasper’s new glacial plunge is elevating wellness in the Alberta Rockies