Experience Winter Camping in Banff, Whistler, and More

A Guide to Skiing and Overnight Stays

Embark on an unforgettable experience along the Powder Highway, discovering incredible ski resorts and winter camping adventures with your winter-ready Karma Campervan.

Alberta and BC are renowned for their fantastic winter camping and ski resorts. We’ve put together a list of our top picks, detailing where you can park overnight and when you might need to find a nearby campground. This list is regularly updated.

Whistler Blackcomb, BC

Canada’s most popular ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb, delivers unmatched skiing and snowboarding. The slopes offer everything from beginner bunny hills to bigass black diamond bombers, testing your skills on various terrains. Overnight parking is unavailable at the resort, but you can find several campgrounds nearby, including Whistler RV Park and Campground and Riverside Resort. Drive 45 minutes south to Squamish for year-round camping at sites like MTN Fun Basecamp, Klahanie Campground, and more.

Sunshine Village, Banff National Park, Alberta

Sunshine Village is famous for its diverse terrain and quick lifts. Don’t miss a stop at Mad Trappers for a burger and pint after a day of skiing. Since Sunshine is located in Banff National Park, overnight parking is prohibited. If you’re arriving early or staying late, Tunnel Mountain Village II is the only option for winter camping in Banff, Alberta. Check out Ski Banff for lift tickets and rental information.

Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is world-renowned, hosting the annual World Cup ski event. It’s a great spot for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For a less crowded experience, head to the backside, where you can enjoy a cozy warming hut. While there’s no official overnight parking at the ski hill, the Lake Louise Trailer Campground offers camping options in the winter months with excellent amenities, including flush toilets, just minutes away from the slopes.

Norquay, Banff National Park, Alberta

Just across Highway 1 from Banff, Norquay is a small yet charming hill. It features hourly lift tickets, a cute lodge, eateries, and direct bus service into Banff. Although overnight parking isn’t permitted due to park regulations, Tunnel Mountain Village II is nearby, offering year-round camping options.

Nakiska, Kananaskis, Alberta

Host of the 1988 Winter Olympics, Nakiska offers a big mountain vibe with well-groomed runs for all skill levels. While there’s no official camping onsite, the spacious parking area often goes unnoticed, making it a potential option for an impromptu overnight stay. For official camping, head to Mt Kidd RV Park, which is open year-round, or consider Stoney Nakoda Resort and Casino, which allows free overnight parking with self-registration.

Panorama Mountain Resort, Invermere, BC

Located a short three-and-a-half-hour drive from Calgary, Panorama is a favourite among locals. The resort offers hot springs overlooking the hill and plenty of dining options. There is no officially designated RV parking on the mountain, but nearby Fairmont Hot Springs RV Resort, open year-round, provides campsites starting at $51 per night.

Castle Mountain, Alberta

Castle Mountain,  a short drive from Calgary, is a hidden gem with abundant snowfall and minimal lift lines. Park your Karma Campervan at the base for an incredible winter camping experience. Sites with electrical hookups to stay warm cost $25 and a reservation, while non-electrical spots are available for $15 and don’t require a reservation. Both options offer access to the wash house. Cat skiing is also available here for adventure seekers. For more info, visit the Castle Ski Resort website or call 403-627-5101 x221 to reserve.

Fernie, BC

With a vertical drop of 3,550 ft and an impressive average snowfall, Fernie Alpine Resort is famous for its epic snow and mountain village ambiance. Campervans can park in the main ski hill lot as you don’t “set up camp.” Fernie RV Resort offers full-service lots with showers, hot water, washrooms, and free high-speed internet. From the RV Resort, you can either catch a convenient shuttle or take a quick drive in your Karma Campervan to the hill to enjoy the first tracks. Additionally, Mount Fernie Provincial Park provides unserviced winter camping in the Top Loop area at no cost.

Kicking Horse, Golden, BC

Located in Golden, BC, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a quick three-hour drive from Karma Campervans in Calgary. Winter camping here is straightforward, with free RV parking in the Kicking Horse lot, but no services are offered. For other winter camping options in Golden BC, consult the Camping and RV BC website.

Red Mountain at Rossland, BC

Red Mountain Resort in Rossland, BC, offers a fantastic skiing experience when the weather is right. Winter camping is simple, with campervan parking allowed in the main ski area parking lot, though services are not provided.

Revelstoke, BC

Revelstoke’s vast terrain and consistent snow make it a top choice for serious skiers. With over 5,600 ft of vertical terrain and 515,000 acres, it’s among the most expansive in the Rockies. The area features several year-round camping spots, including Revelstoke Campground and Boulder Mountain Campground. Check out Revelstoke’s list of official camping areas near the resort for additional options, all located just a short drive from our Okanagan campervan rental location.

Ski Touring & Off-Grid Winter Camping

If you prefer to skip the lift lines and earn your turns, there are plenty of options for off-grid winter camping in BC and Alberta that provide excellent access to world-renowned ski touring zones. While having access to power is nice, our campervans are fully equipped to run off-grid, getting you even closer to the best starting points! Always check conditions and be sure to pack the necessary safety gear before travelling into the backcountry.

There are endless opportunities for winter camping in Alberta and BC if you know where to look. Resources we suggest include the Alberta Campground Guide and the Camping in BC Winter Camping website.

Ready to experience winter camping like never before? Book your Karma Campervan today and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Banff, Whistler, Montana and more! From snowy mountains to serene forests, the winter wilderness awaits. Don’t forget to share your winter camping moments with us by using #GoodCamping and tagging @KarmaCampervans on social media.