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Plan your camper trip from Calgary – find your ideal camper in minutes

Road Genius helps travelers compare campervan and motorhome rentals across Canada. Calgary is a popular pick-up point for trips to Banff, Jasper, Drumheller and the southern Prairies. Summer brings long daylight hours, while winter requires a fully winterized vehicle.

Campervan Rental Cost

How much does it cost to rent an RV in Calgary?

RV rental costs in Calgary depend on factors like RV type, age, features, reservation length, season, and pick-up/drop-off locations.

Daily rates typically range from $55 to $340.

To get the most accurate pricing, check current rates using our search tool. Remember to consider additional costs such as fuel, campsite fees, and any extras like GPS or additional drivers.

Campervan Pickup Locations

Map of campervan rental depots near 374272

Best Months for a Camping Trip in Calgary

Season Avg High °C/°F Good time?
Spring (Apr–May) 13 / 55 Yes, but nights stay below freezing until late May
Summer (Jun–Aug) 22 / 72 Best weather and all roads open
Autumn (Sep–Oct) 15 / 59 Good; fall colors in mid-September
Winter (Nov–Mar) –2 / 28 Only if your vehicle has winter tires, insulation and heated tanks

Driving Tips

  • City speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) unless signs show otherwise. Main highways are 110 km/h (68 mph).
  • Winter tires or chains are strongly recommended from October to April, especially for mountain highways west of the city.
  • Parks Canada requires a National Park Pass to drive or camp in Banff or Yoho. You can buy it online or at the park gates.
  • Calgary downtown has low-clearance parking garages. Street parking spots rarely fit vehicles over 6.5 m (21 ft).
  • Overnight street parking in residential areas is limited to 72 hours. Engine idling is restricted to 5 minutes.
  • Alberta has no electronic toll roads. All bridges and highways are free.

Campsites and Overnight Options

Place Hook-ups Pros Cons
Calgary West Campground (city edge) Full Close to shops and transit; accepts vehicles up to 45 ft Highway noise
Mountain View Calgary KOA Full Year-round water lines; playgrounds Must book 4–6 months ahead for July
Bow Valley Campground (45 min west) Water+Electric Scenic Bow River, trails, showers Provincial park fee; max vehicle 24 m/80 ft booked 90 days out
Mount Kidd RV Park (Kananaskis) Water+Electric Large forested sites, cell coverage No sewer at site; strict bear-safe rules
Ghost Public Land Use Zone None Free dispersed camping up to 14 nights No toilets or water; rough road

Refueling Spots

  • Flying J Travel Center, 11511 40 St SE: diesel, gasoline, propane, potable water and dump station.
  • Co-op Cardlock & Sani-Dump, Range Rd 284 off Hwy 1: 24-hour fuel and fresh water.
  • Canmore Visitor Center Dump Station (west of Calgary on Hwy 1): last easy empty and fill point before Banff.

Practical Tips

  • Check fire bans at albertafirebans.ca before using any stove or campfire.
  • Store food in sealed containers. Black bears and grizzly bears live near the city.
  • Call 911 for police, fire or medical emergencies. AMA roadside assistance is 1-800-222-4357.
  • Check road conditions at 511.alberta.ca. Snow can fall above 1,500 m (5,000 ft) any month.
  • Spring and early summer bring ticks. Check your clothing after hikes.
  • Follow quiet hours posted in all provincial and private campgrounds, usually 23:00–07:00.

FAQs

Is wild camping allowed in Canada?

Wild camping is not allowed in Canada. You can only sleep in a campervan at designated campgrounds. Staying overnight at rest areas or parking lots is against the rules.

There are many campgrounds in Canada typically costing between $40 and $90 CAD per night.

However, you might be able to stay overnight in a Walmart parking lot if you get approval from the store manager.

What are the license requirement to rent a camper in Canada?

To rent a campervan, all drivers must hold a valid and complete driver's license. Licenses from other countries are fine if they're in English or French, or if you have an official translation. If your license is in another language, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Even with an English or French license, if you're staying in Canada for 3 months or longer, you might also need an IDP. Regulations differ across provinces, so it's important to research and understand the local requirements beforehand.

Can I rent a campervan one-way in Canada?

Absolutely! Many travelers choose popular one-way trips like going from Vancouver to Montreal, Calgary to Vancouver, or Toronto to Montreal.

Can I travel to the USA in my rental vehicle?

Yes, most Canadian campervan rental companies do permit travel to the USA with their vehicles. Be sure to review the specific terms and conditions of your chosen provider.

Always adhere to visa and customs regulations while traveling.