Updated October 24, 2022
The feeling of a warm campfire, the chirping of crickets somewhere in the woods, and the glow of stars above – there’s nothing like camping in Edmonton, Canada. Whether you’re looking for a quick camping retreat inside the city or wanting to get a bit farther away, there are plenty of amazing campsites near Edmonton for you to visit. Get ready to unroll your sleeping bag and pitch your tent at one of these incredible Edmonton campgrounds.
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1. Rainbow Valley Campground
Distance from Edmonton: 6.7 miles (22 minutes by car)
Types of Campsites: Tent and RV
Open Dates: June to Mid-October
Reservation and Cost: Reservations are recommended, starts at $37/night for no power and $43/night with power
The best part about camping in Edmonton is that there are so many great options close to the city. Just a little south of downtown you’ll find Rainbow Valley, one of the best Edmonton campgrounds around. You can head here in your RV or set up a tent to get a taste of the city’s urban parkland. With 39 power sites and 29 natural sites, there are plenty of camping spots for you to choose from! The Rainbow Valley Campground is close to several stores and amenities that make it an ideal option for groups and families. You’ll also find a variety of nature trails and large playgrounds for an outdoor experience that caters to all ages.
Another perk of camping here is that you’ll be right next to the Snow Valley Aerial Park, which offers plenty of fun things to do. Go on a hike to see Edmonton from a bird’s eye view, explore the huge treehouse cross jungle gym, or take in the beautiful river valleys. Once your day of adventuring comes to a close, prepare to fall asleep under the trees as the Whitemud Creek sings you to sleep.
2. Elk Island Retreat
Distance from Edmonton: 34 miles (45 minutes by car)
Types of Campsites: Tipis, Trapper Cabins, Yurts, Geo Domes, and RV
Open Dates: Mid-March to Early November
Reservation and Cost: Reservations are recommended, starts at $44/night for RVs and $154/night for full accommodation
If you’re looking for one of the more private Edmonton campgrounds around, then Elk Island Retreat is perfect for you. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or an Edmonton local, checking out this small hideaway needs to be on your to-do list. You can enjoy comfort camping in their geodesic domes, yurts, and cabins, or bring your RV to one of the 36 full-service sites.
When you’re done relaxing, take a walk on the nature trails and explore the natural beauty that surrounds this campground. If you’re looking for a fun adventure, take advantage of the volleyball and badminton nets or the horseshoe pits at the nearby Elk Island National Park. You can also spend your day hiking, canoeing, or even spotting some bison here. For travelers, we recommend checking out the Ukrainian Cultural Village which is less than a half-hour drive away. Additionally, you can visit other popular sites including Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park, and of course, the urban Edmonton city.
3. Devon Lions Campground
Distance from Edmonton: 25 miles (55 minutes by car)
Types of Campsites: RV and Tent
Open Dates: May 1st to Thanksgiving
Reservation and Cost: Reservations are recommended, starts at $30.50/night
Devons Lions is one of our favorite Edmonton campgrounds, nestled right in the banks of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Even though it’s close to the city, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a peaceful and tranquil getaway that connects you to nature. Whether you camp here in your RV or tent, you’ll have a lot of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Feel free to put your golf skills to the test at the Devon Golf & Conference Centre or hop inside a canoe and paddle your way down the river. Whatever you choose to do, you certainly won’t be bored at this beautiful site.
The best part about camping here is that you can pick your own spot from over 100 options, ranging from un-serviced sites to full RV hookups. Since the campground is only a few minutes away from Edmonton, it’s the perfect overnight nature escape for both residents and visitors.
4. Half Moon Lake Resort
Distance from Edmonton: 24 miles (41 minutes by car)
Types of Campsites: RV and Tent
Open Dates: May to October
Reservation and Cost: Reservations are recommended, starts at $57.50/night
If you’re ready to enter nature’s paradise, look no further than the Half Moon Lake Campground and RV Resort. Here, you’ll find solace and serenity wrapped up in a bow along with several outdoor adventures. The lake is named after its unique crescent shape, and while it may be small, it is truly a picturesque and mighty body of freshwater. While you camp here, you can grab a paddle board, kayak, or canoe and head to the lake for a bit of adventure. There’s also free mini golf and horseshoe pits to keep you entertained.
The Half Moon Lake Resort ensures that you have nothing to worry about once you’ve set up camp. There are over 200 campsites to choose from, several washroom facilities, Wi-Fi hotspots, and a fully developed beach and playground to let the kids enjoy themselves. This is definitely one of the best Edmonton campgrounds for those wanting a weekend full of activities!
5. Urban River Adventures
Distance from Edmonton: 36.8 miles (60 minutes by car)
Types of Campsites: Geodomes, furnished and unfurnished tents
Open Dates: June to Mid-October
Reservation and Cost: Reservations are recommended, starts at $112.50/person for groups and $125/person for dome glamping
Experience the ultimate glamping fun without going far at Urban River Adventures. We’d recommend this summer experience over any hotel because the unique accommodations make for such a fun time! When you book your glamping experience with Urban River Adventures, you can expect to sit in a geodome, tipi, or tree tent on the islands of the North Saskatchewan River. You’re also welcome to bring your own tent and get shuttled off to a private area for a pampered yet authentic camping experience.
Another great option is to reserve a VIP adventure, where all you need to do is bring yourself to the site. Your gear, food, and comfortable bedding are all covered in the package! The best part about choosing Urban River Adventures is that they offer a lot of adventure beyond comfort camping. You can sign up for their island-hopping adventure, backcountry camping trip, river kayaking excursion, and much more.
