How to book a BC Parks campsite

Key Dates, Tips & Best Times to Camp

How to book a BC Parks campsite

British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s most stunning provincial parks, offering everything from serene lakeside retreats to rugged backcountry adventures. But securing a campsite in BC Parks can feel like a race - especially during peak season. Here’s your ultimate guide to booking a BC Parks campsite, including important dates, insider tips, and the best time of year to camp.

A black pickup truck with a rooftop tent parked near a lake at sunset, with a wooden picnic table nearby and autumn trees in the background.

Step 1: Understand the Reservation System

BC Parks uses an online reservation system that operates on a four-month rolling window. This means you can book a campsite up to four months before your arrival date. For example:

  • If you plan to camp on July 15, you can book starting March 15 at 7:00 a.m. PST.

Reservations open daily at 7:00 a.m. Pacific Time, and popular sites often sell out within minutes. So, set your alarm and be ready to click!

Types of Camping:

  • Frontcountry Camping: Vehicle-accessible sites near park roads with amenities like toilets and potable water.

  • Backcountry Camping: Remote sites requiring hiking or paddling, with limited facilities.

Step 2: Mark These Important Dates

Long weekends are the busiest times for BC Parks. Here are the key dates for 2025:

  • Victoria Day (May 17–19)
    Reservations open: January 16, 2025 at 7:00 a.m. PST

  • Canada Day (June 28–July 1)
    Reservations open: February 27, 2025 at 7:00 a.m. PST

  • BC Day (August 2–4)
    Reservations open: April 1, 2025 at 7:00 a.m. PST

  • Labour Day (August 30–September 1)
    Reservations open: April 29, 2025 at 7:00 a.m. PST

Pro Tip: Create your BC Parks account ahead of time and log in early. Popular campgrounds like Golden Ears, Alice Lake, and Rathtrevor Beach fill up in minutes. [vancouvertrails.com]


Step 3: Use New Features to Your Advantage

BC Parks has introduced a “Notify Me” feature, which sends alerts when a previously booked campsite becomes available. You can set notifications for up to five campgrounds and dates - perfect for snagging cancellations. [campinglife.ca]

A woman sitting on the open tailgate of a gray pickup truck with camping gear inside, parked on a gravel road in a forested area with mountains in the background.
Wooden hot spring shelter with steps leading up to it, surrounded by trees, rocks, and a hot spring pool in a forested area.

Tips for a Successful Booking

Be Flexible: Have backup dates and parks in mind.

  1. Check for Cancellations: Spots often open up 15–20 minutes after the initial rush.

  2. Know Your Park: Research amenities, site sizes (especially for RVs), and any restrictions like campfire bans.

  3. Consider First-Come, First-Served: About half of BC Parks campsites are non-reservable - arrive early for these. [offtracktravel.ca]

Ready to Book?

Visit BC Parks Reservations to secure your spot. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a backcountry adventure, booking early and knowing the system will make your trip stress-free.