The best camping near Yoho National Park

Named after a Cree expression meaning “awe and wonder,” Yoho National Park sits on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies at the border between BC and Alberta. The relatively tiny park (1,313 km²) is bordered by Kootenay and Banff national parks and is full of waterfalls, including the iconic Takakkow Falls—Canada’s highest free-falling falls. It’s also home to rivers and glacier lakes such as Emerald Lake, where there are opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Front and backcountry camping are available, as well as Alpine Club of Canada backcountry huts. No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains with access to over 400 kilometres of hiking trails.

• Best for adventurers: Lake O’Hara Campground offers unparalleled views of the area’s blue-green alpine lake, towering mountains, and unique trail systems. You may need to book a Parks Canada shuttle to get here, and you won't have cell service.
• Best for backpackers and hikers: The easily accessible, walk-in Takakkaw Falls Campground is a hiker’s paradise, set close to the falls as a main trailhead. It’s open from June to October on a first-come, first-served policy.
• Best for families: Kicking Horse Campground is the largest in the park and it has some of the only reservable frontcountry sites. Choose a field site for unobstructed mountain views.

1. The only reservable frontcountry campsites are Kicking Horse (open June 20 to October 14) and nearby Monarch Campground (June 20 to September 2). 
2. Reservations begin in early January each year for all front and backcountry campsites in Yoho. Backcountry reservations and wilderness passes should be secured well in advance.
3. Takakkaw Falls and Hoodoo Creek campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving as early as possible (around 6am) to get in line for a spot.

The park is accessible year-round, but July to September is the busy season throughout the Rocky Mountains, when you’ll need to arrive early to get a first-come, first-served site. All are usually filled by noon, and it’s, of course, especially busy on weekends and holidays. Spring in the Rockies is great if you’re looking to beat the heat, and at the end of July, the wildflowers are in full bloom. During the winter months of November through March, the park is frequented by snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

• Yoho is home to abundant wildlife, so exercise safety precautions. There are large animals including grizzly and black bears, as well as lynx, wolverines, deer, cougars, mountain goats, coyotes, and over 200 species of birds.
• Don’t miss a visit to Emerald Lake, known for its stunning jewel tone and popularity among canoers—rentals are available at the dock. Arrive before midday and take the side trails away from the parking lot to avoid tour buses and crowds.
• Field is the nearest town, filled with local artisans, grocery options, and character homes.

Camping near Moraine Lake is an experience filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. The turquoise glacial waters and towering mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for your Moraine Lake camping adventure, creating memories that last a lifetime.