Beat the summer crowds and set up camp before everyone else even pulls out their gear.
Spring camping in Alberta isn’t for the faint of heart—you’ll want good gear, plenty of layers, and maybe a backup plan if Mother Nature decides to throw a late blizzard your way. But for those willing to brave a little unpredictability, early-season camping offers something truly special: quiet parks, wildlife sightings, and the satisfaction of claiming the best campsites long before peak season hits.
If you’re looking for a place to pitch a tent or park your trailer this spring, here are three Alberta spots where milder temperatures and early access make camping in April and May actually doable—and pretty awesome.
1. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
Location: Southern Alberta (near Milk River)
Campground Opens: May 15, 2025 (subject to weather)
Tucked into the warm, dry corner of Alberta near the U.S. border, Writing-on-Stone offers some of the earliest and most comfortable spring camping conditions you’ll find. Daytime temperatures here often hit the mid-teens (°C) by late April, and the park’s stunning hoodoos and sandstone cliffs are perfect for spring exploring.
What makes it great in spring:
- Earlier warm-ups compared to most of Alberta.
- Fewer crowds, easier campsite bookings.
- Explore hoodoo trails, Indigenous petroglyphs, and the Milk River valley before summer heat sets in.
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Good to know: The campground sits right by the river, and while spring flows are usually moderate, it’s wise to keep an eye on river safety advisories if you’re planning on paddling.
More info: Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
2. Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
Location: Southeast of Edmonton (near Camrose)
Campground Opens: May 10, 2025
If you’re looking for a spring camping spot that’s close to Edmonton but still feels peaceful, Miquelon Lake is a great pick. It’s known for its gentle hiking trails, birdwatching (especially in spring migration season), and mellow lakeside atmosphere.
What makes it great in spring:
- Lower elevation and sheltered forests mean warmer nights earlier in the season.
- Birdwatching is excellent, with pelicans, herons, and songbirds returning in April and May.
- Easy access to walking and cycling trails right from the campground.
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Good to know: The lake itself is shallow and can vary in water level. It’s best for paddling or hiking, rather than swimming.
More info: Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
3. Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Location: Near Rocky Mountain House
Campground Opens: May 15, 2025
Crimson Lake is a bit of a hidden gem for spring camping. Located west of Rocky Mountain House, it offers a great mix of forested campsites, easy lakeside trails, and relatively mild temperatures compared to higher mountain parks.
What makes it great in spring:
- Good mix of sun and shelter, making for more comfortable shoulder-season camping.
- The Shoreline Trail around Crimson Lake is a flat, easy hike that’s usually dry by late May.
- Wildlife viewing opportunities—especially moose, deer, and early songbirds.
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Good to know: Sites book up fast for long weekends, so if you’re aiming for May Long, make reservations early.
More info: Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Spring Camping Tips for Alberta
- Book early — Even in spring, popular parks like Writing-on-Stone can fill up quickly, especially for the May long weekend.
- Expect mixed weather — Snow one day, sunshine the next. Bring waterproof gear and extra tarps.
- Bring layers — Nights can still dip below freezing into May. A good sleeping bag is a must.
- Check campground services — Some campgrounds have limited amenities (like water and firewood) early in the season. Always check park updates before heading out.
- Watch for wildlife — Spring is an active season for bears, especially in forested parks. Pack bear spray and practice safe food storage.
Other Honourable Mentions for Spring Camping:
- Beauvais Lake Provincial Park (near Pincher Creek) – Often warmer earlier than expected.
- Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park (Lac La Biche) – Island camping with migrating birds all around.
- Dinosaur Provincial Park – Camp under the stars in the heart of the Badlands.
Have a favourite spring camping spot we should add? Let us know—we’re always looking for more hidden gems to share! 
