We spent three days camping at the Townsite Campground in Waterton National Park. I must admit, I’d been avoiding camping here for a while. It is not what we typically look for in a campground being both large and lacking in privacy. However as it turns out, a stay at the Townsite campground in Waterton, turned out to be just perfect! How often can you camp somewhere and never move your car for your entire trip!
The location of the Townsite campground along with the incredible unobstructed mountain views and proximity to the lake make this a must stay at, for anyone adventuring in Waterton National Park. The facilities are modern and clean, as expected from a Parks Canada campground and it was so peaceful despite its large size.
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The Townsite Campground
The Townsite campground in Waterton Lakes National Park is big, straddling both sides of Cameron Creek, on the south side of town. There are 246 campsites in total, with 109 being full service sites, 76 power only sites and the remainder being non serviced sites. There are a mixture of drive in and walk in unserviced sites.
The campground itself is mostly a large grassy area with a few trees here and there. All drive-in sites at the Townsite campground in Waterton, have gravelled drives and then at least while we were there, tents were pitched to the site on the grassy area. There is also a picnic bench at each site. Note, there are no firepits at the Townsite campground however propane firepits are allowed in certain conditions.
Due to the open nature of the Townsite Campground and its proximity to Upper Waterton Lakes, the campground can get windy! This is not one where you will want to forget your pegs. Make sure your tent, tarp or dinner tent is securely grounded!
There are plenty of washroom facilities at the Townsite campground, they are clean and modern. There are showers, toilets and sinks inside the buildings. Outside there are large sinks for dishwashing. Water at the campground is also potable.
Scattered throughout the campground are day use shelters, some of these have a wall missing for great airflow, others are completely enclosed in case of bad weather. Inside there are picnic tables, so these make a perfect spot to hide from the elements if the weather is bad during your stay.
The greatest part of the Townsite Campground is its location, you are just minutes from the lakeshore trail and shoreline of the Upper Waterton Lake. It is also just a short stroll into town, for coffee, dinner or activities. Follow the trail beside the creek through the campground and you’ll end up at Cameron Falls in about five minutes.
There are also endless hiking trails close to the campground, meaning if you don’t want to, you never have to move your vehicle and can explore completely on foot, which I find is rare in the mountain parks.
Due to the 2017 Kenow fire in Waterton Lakes National Park, the Townsite campground is currently the only frontcountry campground within the National Park. It does get extremely busy, reservations are recommended especially though July and August and on weekends. You can reserve online through the Parks Canada website.
There are a number of campgrounds outside the park if you are unable to secure a spot in the Townsite campground. There is the Belly River campground on Highway 6, as well as the Crooked Creek campground, just outside the park on Highway 5.
Where Is The Townsite Campground
The Townsite campground is located approximately 55 kilometres south of Pincher Creek, via Highway 6. Waterton National Park is clearly signposted from Pincher Creek and the turn off for the National Park along the highway is signposted too, via Highway 5 South.
You will need to stop at the Park gates to buy a pass if you don’t have one, if you have an annual discovery pass, you can scan it and the gate will open, just follow directions as you get to the gatehouse.
Once past the gate, continue along the road until you get to the town. Follow the signs all the way through town to access the Townsite campground, just past the visitor centre. Look for the tent and camping symbols on the signs as it isn’t always written.
Things To Do Nearby
Waterton is packed with awesome things to do, especially in the summer! If you are looking for a relaxing day, grab an ice cream in town and sit on the lakeshore to enjoy it! Wander round the stores in Waterton and see what they have to offer or grab a drink on one of the many patios in town.
For those looking for a bit more of an adrenaline day, consider completing the Crypt Lake hike, known for its skinny ledges, cave tunnel and chain to aid the climb in one area, this trail isn’t for the faint hearted.
There are plenty of other shorter and gorgeous hikes, check out Bertha Falls, or continue on to Bertha Lake. The Bears Hump is another shorter but steep hike right in town, with beautiful views of the Waterton Lakes. There is minimal shade on the hike and it gets really busy so this one is a perfect sunrise or sunset hike.
The drive out to the Red Rock Canyon hike is incredible and at the end of the road is the short and easy loop hike for the Red Rock Canyon. Many people also go down into the canyon here. Except this one to be busy, aim to go early in the day for a more peaceful time.
If you love to get out on the water, consider renting a boat at Cameron Lake and doing some fishing. There is also a short lakeshore walk with minimal elevation gain for those who don’t like boats.
Things You Might Need When Staying At The Townsite Campground
As always, I pretty much lived in my Chaco sandals, they are perfect for wandering round camp, taking a shower, dipping your toes in the lake or strolling into town.
Good pegs and extra ropes are a must have in case the wind picks up. Make sure if you are tent camping you are secure, great pegs can make a world of difference.
There is lots of wildlife in Waterton National Park, don’t leave home without your bear spray.
Bring a towel and washing items if you plan on having a shower. I have to say, these were some of the best showers I’ve had in a campground, so nothing to be worried about.