New Kananaskis, Alberta Public Lands and BC Parks pass systems

Changes have come to some of your favourite day-use spots! Day-use passes are now required in Kananaskis, AB and some popular BC parks. Read on for where these passes apply, how to get them, and what you need to know before you go.

Kananaskis Conservation Pass

Due to the surge in visitors in recent years, the Kananaskis Conservation Pass has been introduced to fund maintenance, amenities and services in the area.

Where they’re needed

Vehicles parked at provincial park and public land sites in Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley now need a Conservation Pass. You can view the map here.

A pass is NOT required in the Ghost area, McLean Creek Public Land Use Zone, McLean Creek Provincial Recreation Area, Fisher Creek Provincial Recreation Area, and the Canmore townsite or other municipal land within the boundary.

When & where to purchase

Passes can be purchased online. For personal vehicles, you can choose from a day pass for $15, or a yearly pass for $90.

To purchase in-person, stop by one of the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centres (Barrier, Elbow and Peter Lougheed) or the Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge.

What the money is used for

Fees collected will help pay for conservation, public safety, services and facilities.

Things to note

• Only one pass per vehicle is required, with no extra cost for additional passengers.
• If you purchase an annual pass, you can add a second vehicle that is registered to the same address.
• Camping fees in parks still apply.
• Targeted in-person spot checks will occur this summer, so print your pass receipt or download on your mobile, in case you are asked to show proof of purchase.

Alberta Public Lands Camping Pass

A Public Lands Camping Pass is now required to random camp on public land along the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains.

Where they’re needed

The pass is required along the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains, from Grande Prairie to Waterton Lakes National Park. View the map.

When & where to purchase

The pass is $20 (+ GST & fees) per person for a 3-day pass, or $30 (+ GST & fees)  per person for an annual pass. The passes can be purchased online at www.albertarelm.com, through the AlbertaRELM mobile app, or where fishing and hunting licences are sold.

What the money is used for

Camping pass fees will be reinvested in the area to improve recreation experiences and help with conservation efforts.

Things to note

• Be ready to show your printed pass or mobile app if requested.
• Campers under 18 do not require a pass.
• A pass is not required for day-use.

BC Parks Day-Use Pass Reservation System

With the new BC Parks Day-Use Pass Reservation System, free day-use passes will be required to visit five of BC’s busiest parks. These passes aim to reduce high visitor volumes that result in crowded trails and parking lots, and impact the park environments and wildlife.

Where they’re needed

BC Parks Day-Use Passes are currently required in five provincial parks: Garibaldi, Golden Ears, Mount Robson, Stawamus Chief, and Joffre Lakes Parks.

When & where to purchase

Passes can be reserved starting at 7am, one day in advance of your planned visit. You must book your free pass online with a Discover Camping account.

Things to note

• Your pass must be carried at all times while within the park. Don’t rely on a mobile connection, be sure to print it out or download the pass on your phone before you arrive.
• Passes don’t guarantee a parking spot.
• These new day-use passes are currently not required for evening visits, which is after 4pm at Garibaldi, Golden Ears, Mount Robson or Stawamus Chief, and after 7pm at Joffre Lakes.

Ready to hit the road and explore these great day-use areas? Click here to book your campervan rental!