Big Elbow Backcountry Campground
Big Elbow Backcountry Campground is a remote backcountry campsite located in Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park, approximately 32 kilometres southwest of Bragg Creek, Alberta. The campground is accessed via an 8.3-kilometre moderate hiking trail from Little Elbow Provincial Recreation Area, gaining approximately 170 metres in elevation. The facility features 10 tent sites with fire pits and provided firewood, pit toilets, secure food storage containers, and grey water disposal. Water is sourced from the river. The campground operates seasonally from May 15 to November 29, with the access highway (Highway 66) closed during winter months (December to May). (via official site)
- fire pits
- firewood provided
- pit toilets
- food storage containers
- river water
- grey water disposal
- hitching rails
Rates & prices
Prices as published on Big Elbow Backcountry Campground’s official website (CAD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Per person per night | CAD 12 per person/night |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for Big Elbow Backcountry Campground, from its official website.
Booking & season
Pitches & accommodation
Facilities & services
Location & access
Rules & policies
Opening hours & schedules
Reception, gate and facility hours for Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.
- At 1730 m, nights can be cold even in summer — bring warm layers.
- Bring cash for fees in case card payment isn't available on site.
Location
Where Big Elbow Backcountry Campground sits on the map and how to get there.
Nearby cities & towns
Towns and cities closest to Big Elbow Backcountry Campground — browse campsites near each.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
Threepoint Mountain is the descriptive name for a three-pointed 2,595-metre (8,514-foot) mountain summit located in the Elbow River valley of Kananaskis Country, in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada. it is situated southwest of Calgary and can be seen from Highway 66. Threepoint Mountain's nearest higher peak is Bluerock Mountain, 4.7 km (2.9 mi) to the south. The mountain's name was made of
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Banded Peak is a 2,934-metre (9,626-foot) summit located in the Elbow River valley of Kananaskis Country in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada. Banded Peak has a distinctive limestone cliff band which gave it its descriptive name. Its name has been used since around 1896. The peak is visible from Highway 66, weather permitting. The mountain's name became official in 1951 by the Geographical N
Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park is a provincial park and wildlife reserve located in the Kananaskis Country in south-western Alberta, Canada. It is within the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
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🛒 Amenities & services
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Public toilets
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.
How far is the walk from the trailhead?
The campground is 8.3 kilometres one way from Little Elbow Provincial Recreation Area trailhead, with approximately 170 metres of elevation gain.
What facilities are available at the campground?
Fire pits with firewood, pit/vault toilets, secure food storage containers, grey water disposal, and hitching rails for equestrian use. Water is sourced from the river.
How far in advance can I book?
Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance by phone at 1-877-537-2757.
What is the maximum group size?
Each site accommodates a maximum of 6 people and 1 tent per site.
When is the campground open?
The campground operates seasonally from May 15 to November 29. Highway 66 access is closed December through May.
How much does it cost to camp at Big Elbow Backcountry Campground?
Big Elbow Backcountry Campground charges a camping fee.
How many pitches does Big Elbow Backcountry Campground have?
Big Elbow Backcountry Campground has around 10 pitches.
When is Big Elbow Backcountry Campground open?
Big Elbow Backcountry Campground is open year-round.
What languages are spoken at Big Elbow Backcountry Campground?
Staff at Big Elbow Backcountry Campground speak English.
Reviews
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More places to camp close to Big Elbow Backcountry Campground.