The best camping near Riding Mountain National Park

On one hand, Riding Mountain National Park is sweeping grasslands, boreal forest, wetlands, and clear lakes where packs of wolves, elk, and bison roam—all secluded backcountry camping and remote hiking and biking trails. Then there’s the other side of this park, with its busy campground, popular day-use beach on Clear Lake, and close proximity to the Wasagaming townsite’s restaurants and shops. Riding Mountain gives you options.

• Best for families: Wasagaming Campground is home to facilities, organized activities, and unique structures such as tiny cabins.
• Best for snow lovers: Moon Lake has insulated winter oTENTiks. 
• Best for big groups: Lake Audy Campground accommodates groups of 10 to 80.

1. Riding Mountain opens for camping reservations in mid-January, when you can make bookings online and in advance via Parks Canada.
2. Although you may have luck securing a site upon arrival during the off-season, this is highly unlikely in summer.
3. The park has 19 backcountry campgrounds, all of which require reservations.

Most Riding Mountain National Park campsites are open from mid-May to late October, but the park is pretty amazing year-round. Winter camping options include insulated accommodations with woodstoves, while summer’s warm weather is best for lakeside camping, canoeing, and swimming. In fall, the boreal forest becomes a sea of reds and golds.

• The town of Wasagaming can get busy in summer, so if you’re looking for a quiet stay you might want to skip the Wasagaming Campground.
• Cell service is unreliable in the park, and backcountry explorers are expected to be self-reliant.
• This is bear country. Carry bear spray and educate yourself on how to camp safety. 
• A number of festivals take place in the park in summer—check the schedule in advance to plan a visit around one (or avoid them!).