Camping during wildfires: Here’s how to be prepared

Campfire (FILE)

It’s summer camping season in Alberta, which means it’s also wildfire season and it’s important to be prepared in case of an emergency.

Alberta is home to hundreds of campgrounds across the province and its parks.

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More than 6.3 million Canadians went camping in 2023, according to data from Camper Champ, a campervan company.

There are dangers associated with camping, from wild animals to storms, or even wildfires.

In Alberta, there were 63 active wildfires as of Friday, with a total of 564 that have been extinguished in 2025.

How to stay safe during a wildfire

If you find yourself out camping and a wildfire moves or starts near the campsite, Parks Canada has tips to stay safe.

Many people view camping as a way to get away from technology, but Parks Canada encourages campers to have a device capable of connecting to the internet to be able to see the most up-to-date information through its app, website or social media.

Campers are also encouraged to learn the possible evacuation routes when they arrive at a campground, have plenty of fuel in their vehicle and an emergency kit with food and water.

Recommended supplies for an emergency kit include:

• Battery powered radio and extra batteries;
• Car keys (and an extra set);
• Essential medication and medical equipment;
• First aid kit;
• Flashlight;
• Glasses/contacts;
• Identification cards;
• Mobile devices; and
• Wallet with credit cards and cash.

In the event of a nearby wildfire, an evacuation alert or order may be issued. An evacuation alert means campers should prepare for a possible evacuation and an order means campers need to leave immediately.

Evacuation orders can come with little to no warning.

“In the case of a rapidly evolving situation, such as a tornado, flood, or a new wildfire near or in a Parks Canada-administered place, a warning could be given within minutes,” said Claudia Crépeault with Parks Canada.

“Parks Canada will inform visitors of a possible campground evacuation as early as possible.”

If an area is evacuated, an evacuation centre will be set up. Evacuees are also advised to contact family and friends to let them know where they are.

The organization reminds people to follow the direction of first responders and Parks Canada employees in the event of an evacuation.

Parks Canada also reminds campers to be mindful of any fire bans in place at a campground. Bulletin boards at sites should display an area’s current fire danger status, and information should also be available at visitor centres.

Campground evacuations are rare events, according to Crépeault.

“We carefully monitor the weather and conditions near and in Parks Canada administered places and make decisions on evacuation alerts and orders considering many factors,” she said.

“Visitors should take the initiative to stay informed and aware of their surroundings. The decision to leave an area before an alert or order is issued is a personal one.”

Campers evacuated or affected by measures put in place because of an emergency situation will automatically have their reservations cancelled and refunded by Parks Canada.