Time to book your campsites: Your guide for the RV season

Can you smell the campfire smoke and hear the laughter echoing through the trees? Summer camping is almost here. If you’re looking forward to starry nights and coffee by the lake, it’s time to start making reservations.

Booking a campsite for the peak summer months in Canada requires planning ahead. The most popular spots fill up quickly, sometimes months in advance, leaving last-minute planners with limited options or disappointing alternatives. 

A little planning and good timing can help you get the perfect spot for your family’s summer trip. This article covers when and where to book, tips for trying new campgrounds, important camp etiquette, and how to get your RV ready for the season.

Booking a campsite: Start your planning early

Timing is everything when booking your ideal campsite. Parks Canada usually opens reservations in January and February, and popular sites can sell out within hours. Provincial parks have their own schedules, but most let you book three to five months before your trip.

July and August are the busiest months, and campsites for long weekends like Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Labour Day fill up within minutes or hours. If you want a specific spot during these times, mark your calendar for when reservations open and be ready to book right away.

Here's what you need to know about booking timelines:

• Parks Canada: Has specific launch dates for each park, usually in January and February for the upcoming season
• Ontario Parks: Opens bookings up to five months in advance
• BC Parks: Opens bookings up to three months in advance
• Alberta Parks: Opens bookings up to 90 days in advance
• Sépaq (Quebec): Opens bookings at different periods throughout the year 
• Private campgrounds: Timelines vary, but many accept bookings year-round

If your first choice isn’t available, don’t give up. Cancellations are common, so keep checking in the weeks leading up to your trip. Many campers snag prime sites by staying flexible and checking often.

How to reserve spots at Canadian national and provincial parks

Every park system in Canada uses its own reservation website, so it helps to know where to book. For Parks Canada sites, go to reservation.pc.gc.ca to see what’s available and make your booking. You can filter by park, date, group size, and equipment size.

Good news for 2026: The Canada Strong Pass gives free or discounted entry to Parks Canada sites from June 19 to September 7. This is a great chance to visit national parks, but keep in mind that sites may book up even faster during these dates since more people will be visiting.

Provincial parks require booking through your specific province's system:

• Ontario: Reserve through Ontario Parks
• British Columbia: Reserve through BC Parks
• Alberta: Reserve through Alberta Parks
• Quebec: Reserve through Sépaq
• Other provinces: Check your provincial park service website

Before booking, set up an account and save your payment details. This can save you time when trying to get popular sites. Also, have backup dates and other locations in mind if your first choice isn’t open.

Private campgrounds and RV parks offer another option, especially if national or provincial sites are full. These sites often offer more amenities, such as full hookups, Wi-Fi, and recreational facilities, though they typically cost more.

Planning for the camping season: Exploring new destinations

Trying a new campground can make your trip more exciting, but it’s important to do some extra research first. Make sure the campground fits your needs before you book. A bit of planning now can help you avoid surprises later.

Here's what to check when exploring new camping destinations:

• Amenities and services: Check what the campground offers. Some have full electrical and water hookups, while others only have basic facilities. Knowing what’s there helps you pack and plan better.
• Site compatibility: If you have an RV, make sure the site fits your RV’s size and setup. Check the maximum length allowed and whether the site can support your RV’s weight.
• Reviews and photos: Look at recent reviews from other campers to learn about site conditions, noise, and any unique features. Photos can show if sites are shaded, how close neighbours are, and what the facilities look like.
• Location and activities: Consider proximity to hiking trails, beaches, fishing spots, or nearby towns and attractions. Choose a campground that serves as a convenient base for the activities your family enjoys most.

Camp etiquette for a positive experience

Being considerate of other campers helps everyone have a better time outdoors.

Follow the Leave No Trace principles to protect natural spaces for future visitors:

• Plan ahead and prepare: Research your destination, check regulations, and repackage food to minimize waste.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stay on designated trails and use established campsites to prevent erosion.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out everything you pack in, including food waste and grey water.
• Leave what you find: Keep natural and cultural objects where you found them, take only photos.
• Minimize campfire impacts: Use designated fire pits, keep fires small, and ensure ashes are completely cool before leaving.
• Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a distance, never feed them, and store food securely.
• Be considerate of others: Keep noise levels down, yield to other trail users, and let nature's sounds shine through.

Get your RV ready and protected for camping season

Before you hit the road, your RV needs attention after months of winter storage. Start with these essential de-winterizing steps:

• Roof: Safely remove any accumulated snow and ice. Check out our detailed guide on removing snow from an RV roof for safe techniques that won't cause damage.
• Water system: Flush antifreeze from lines, sanitize the fresh water tank, and check for leaks.
• Propane system: Inspect connections, test for leaks, and ensure tanks are filled.
• Battery: Inspect for cracks, clean terminals, check fluid levels, then reinstall and recharge.
• Tires: Inspect for cracks, check pressure, and look for uneven wear.
• Seals and seams: Examine roof seals, windows, and door seams for cracks or gaps.

Before your first trip, test all your appliances and ensure your safety gear is in good working order. Check your fire extinguishers, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure your first‑aid kit is fully stocked. Replace anything that has expired so you can travel safely and with confidence.

Before you book your campsite, take a minute to review your insurance coverage so your broker can help ensure your policy fits your needs and provides the right protection for the season.

Your best camping season starts with preparation

With some planning, this camping season could be your best yet. Booking early gives you more choices, and getting your RV ready means smoother, stress-free trips. Whether you’re going back to a favourite place or trying somewhere new, these tips will help you have a great experience.

Remember, following campground etiquette and Leave No Trace principles helps keep these places beautiful for everyone. And before you leave home, check that your RV insurance protects your investment and gives you peace of mind while travelling.

Ready to protect your RV for the camping season ahead?

At Orbit Insurance Services, we specialize in RV coverage that fits your needs. Our experienced brokers will help you find the right protection at the best price.  

Contact an Orbit RV insurance broker to discuss which coverage is best for you. We’ll handle the insurance so you can focus on making memories on your trip.

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