Parks Canada has provided additional context regarding the seasonal restriction on tents, tent trailers, and soft-sided camping equipment at the Lake Louise Trailer Campground, a measure implemented annually to protect campers and wildlife during heightened bear activity.
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Clarification from Parks Canada
In an email to Discover Airdrie, a Parks Canada official clarified that:
"Tents are always welcome in Lake Louise."
The official further explained that the Lake Louise Campground is divided into two sections:
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The soft-sided/tent section is a forested area near the Bow River that operates from May to September and is protected by an electric fence due to bear activity. This section is closed during the winter months.
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The hard-sided/trailer section operates year-round and is not surrounded by an electric fence. During the winter months (December to March), tents and soft-sided units are permitted in this section due to lower visitation and decreased bear activity.
The official noted that the restricted activity order aligns with annual bear activity patterns. Parks Canada also emphasized that "keeping wildlife wild is a shared responsibility," underscoring the importance of ensuring human and wildlife safety in high-risk areas like Banff National Park.
Details from the Initial Bulletin
The initial Restricted Activity Order, issued under Section 7(1) of the National Parks General Regulations of the Canada National Parks Act, contained the following information:
While the bulletin outlined the basic restrictions, it did not mention the campground’s two sections or the tent allowances permitted during winter months.
In addition to the clarification provided via email, Parks Canada’s official website provides the following detailed information about the two sections of the Lake Louise Campground:
Lake Louise Hard-Sided Campground
According to Parks Canada’s website, the Lake Louise Hard-Sided Campground lies in the heart of Banff National Park and offers access to various trails and attractions, including world-famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. It is also a short drive to the Icefields Parkway, which features breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, rivers, canyons, and glaciers.
Key Details:
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Campsites: Shared double-length sites, best suited for units up to 15 metres (50 feet), with 15-30-50 amp service.
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Fire and No-Fire Sites: Both options available during site selection.
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Location: Divided from the soft-sided campground by the Bow River and running parallel to the Canadian Pacific rail line.
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Hard-Sided Restriction: Only hard-sided camping units are permitted in this section. Units with soft sides or pop-outs must use the soft-sided section.
Lake Louise Soft-Sided Campground
According to Parks Canada’s website, the Lake Louise Soft-Sided Campground operates from May to September and is enclosed by an electric fence to protect campers from wildlife.
Key Details:
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Campsites: Unserviced sites, best suited for tents, tent trailers, soft-sided units, and small motorhomes and trailers up to 7 metres (24 feet).
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Fire and No-Fire Loops: Available during site selection.
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Location: Divided from the hard-sided campground by the Bow River and surrounded by mountain views.
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Soft-Sided Restriction: All soft-sided units must stay within the electric fence.
These measures, including the prohibition of tents and soft-sided units in the hard-sided section from March 28 to December 15, 2025, are part of Parks Canada’s recurring efforts to balance public safety with wildlife conservation. Campers should be aware that these restrictions are aligned with seasonal bear activity and apply annually.
Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act, with penalties of up to $25,000.
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