Pros & cons
PROS
- Easy 7.3 km approach with gentle elevation
- Firepits with on-site firewood and bear-proof food lockers
- Grey water disposal and pit toilets keep camp tidy
CONS
- Water comes from the river—bring a filter or treatment
- Seasonal window June 15–November 29; closed the rest of the year
Overview
A classic first-backpacking destination, Forks Backcountry Campground sits beside the Upper Kananaskis River with a short, mellow approach and surprisingly robust facilities for the backcountry. It’s a comfortable jump‑off for families and newcomers, yet handy as a base for bigger day trips.
Getting There
Start from North Interlakes Day Use and follow the Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Three Isle Lake Trail for 7.3 km one way with roughly 100 m of gain—rated easy. A few hikers report their GPS shows a bit more distance and elevation, but the grade stays friendly throughout.
Campsites & Amenities
Expect about 20 tent pads, including a mix of gravel pads and wooden platforms. The campground features two large communal cooking/fire areas (one at each end), pit/vault toilets, bear‑proof food storage lockers, and a designated grey water disposal. Firewood is provided; collecting deadfall is not permitted.
Water
The river/creek is your water source—treat, filter, or boil before drinking or cooking.
Season, Fees & Booking
The typical operating season runs June 15–November 29. Reservations open 90 days before arrival. Fees are about $12 per person per night, with a maximum of 6 people and 1 tent per site.
Wildlife & Safety
Bears are active here. Use the food lockers, keep a clean camp, and check current park advisories before you go.
Who It’s For
Perfect for beginners, kids, and anyone wanting an easy overnighter. It’s also a convenient base to stage hikes toward Three Isle Lake or Turbine Canyon.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for weekdays within the operating season for a quieter experience. Arriving earlier in the day helps you choose from the better tent pads. Summer weekends are the busiest, so book right at the 90‑day window.
Where it is
50.6353, -115.2334Tips for The Forks Backcountry Campground
- 01Reserve exactly 90 days ahead; summer weekends go fast.
- 02Start from North Interlakes Day Use and follow the Upper Kananaskis Lake/Three Isle Lake Trail for 7.3 km.
- 03Use the bear lockers and keep a clean camp; bears are active in this area.
- 04Treat all water from the river and use the grey water station for dishwater.
- 05Firewood is provided; you may find communal axes, but bring a small hatchet if rain is likely.
Amenities
Near The Forks Backcountry Campground
All places →All trails →
1.3 mi awayMaude-Lawson LakesAlpine lakes reached by a moderate 7.5 km summer route
2 mi awayThree Isle Lake Backcountry CampgroundBackcountry lake campground with pads, lockers, and pit toiletsRestroom · Campground
2 mi awayThree Isle LakeRemote alpine lake with a coveted backcountry campgroundCampground · Restroom
2.1 mi awayUpper Kananaskis FallsQuick waterfall stop on the Upper Kananaskis Lake loopTrailhead · Parking
4.1 mi awayThree Isle LakeLakeshore cruise, spicy headwall, and a serene alpine basinChallenging · 12.7 mi · 9.5 hr
4.1 mi awayMaude-LawsonBig alpine push to Turbine Canyon and Maude Lake via The ForksChallenging · 21 mi · 12 hr
4.1 mi awayUpper Kananaskis Lake Rock Glacier TrailLake loop with bouldery rockslide and a stop at Sarrail FallsModerate · 9.7 mi · 5 hr
4.9 mi awayLower Kananaskis Lake Lakeside TrailGentle lakeshore walk with big views and easy logisticsEasy · 4.3 mi · 2.3 hr
