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Winter Camping Packing Guide

Winter camping in Kananaskis is a unique and beautiful experience — crisp air, snowy forests, and cozy evenings by the fire. Our heated canvas tents make it more comfortable than traditional winter camping, but conditions can still be cold, dark, and rustic. The right gear makes all the difference.

Below is everything you’ll need to stay warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your stay.

What We Provide

We supply everything needed to make winter camping comfortable, but not “luxury.” Here’s what you can count on:

✔ Heated Canvas Tent

• A propane heater or wood stove (depending on tent type)

• Heating takes time — expect gradual warmth rather than instant heat

• Not all tents include firewood; ensure you purchase prior to your stay or at the Trading Post

✔ Bed Setup

• Mattress and bedding

• Add layers if you’re someone who runs cold

✔ Camp Infrastructure

• Firepit and seating

• Outdoor cooking area

• Solar lighting (weather-dependent)

✔ Access to Trading Post Amenities

• Water access at the Trading Post

• Cooking Utensil Kit

• Flushing Heated Washrooms

• Hot Showers

• Additional Camping Rentals

• Basic Groceries

In winter, water and dishes can freeze, and cooking happens fully outside. Thinking of this as elevated winter camping.

If you dress like you’re going skiing and pack like you’re going winter camping, you’ll be perfectly comfortable. Our tents provide a warm place to sleep — the outdoors provide the adventure.

Clothing Essentials (What to Wear + Why It Matters)

Winter weather can drop below –15°C, and you’ll spend time outdoors cooking, walking to the washrooms, or tending the fire. The key is layering.

Base Layers (Next to Skin)

• Thermal leggings

• Long-sleeve thermal top

• Warm socks (wool recommended)

Why: These trap heat and keep your core warm, even when you’re outside after sunset.

Mid Layers (Insulating)

• Fleece sweater or hoodie

• Insulated pants or thick joggers

Why: Adds warmth without bulk — essential when temps drop quickly after dark.

Outer Layer (Weatherproof)

• Winter jacket (down or insulated)

• Snow pants

• Waterproof gloves (plus a backup pair)

• Toque / warm hat

• Scarf or neck warmer

You’ll be walking between the tent, washrooms, and firepit — a proper outer layer keeps wind and cold out.

Footwear

• Insulated winter boots

• Extra warm socks

You’ll be on packed snow and walking to the trading post / washroom / outhouse — warm, dry feet are everything.

Gear for Comfort & Warmth

Even with a heater or wood stove, tents take time to warm up — especially in very cold weather.

Bring:

• Extra blanket or small throw

• Hand warmers / toe warmers

• Slippers or warm indoor shoes for inside the tent

• Portable heater

Nights are long and temperatures can dip suddenly — these small items make a huge difference in comfort.

Lighting Essentials

Winter sunsets are early, and solar lighting can be unreliable after cloudy days.

Bring:

• Headlamp

• Small battery-powered lantern

• Flashlight

The area gets very dark by early evening — having your own light makes cooking, moving around, and settling in much easier.

Water & Food Considerations

You’ll be cooking and eating outdoors. While we provide cookware basics:

Bring:

• Water bottles or a large insulated jug

• Easy-to-prepare meals (the cold slows everything down)

• Snacks and warm drinks

Water can freeze if left outside, and simple meals make winter cooking far more enjoyable.

Front Desk

• Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Phone: 1 (403) 591-0606

• Email: sundance@basecampresorts.com

• Emergency: 911

A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to access Sundance by Basecamp. For purchase details, please visit the Province of Alberta website.

Check-In / Check-Out

• Check-in: 4:00 PM

• Check-out: 11:00 AM

Looking to extend your stay? Please contact the Front Desk for best available rates.

Parking

Complimentary on-site parking is provided for all guests. If you require space for more than one vehicle, please contact the Front Desk in advance. Select campsites can accommodate large trailers.

Property Map

Download the Sundance by Basecamp Property Map for a full view of the site layout, including tent locations, washrooms, showers, and the Trading Post.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are observed daily from 10:30 PM to 8:00 AM. All music, electronic devices, and generators must be turned off during this time.

Offensive behaviour or loud music is not permitted at any time. Parties are strictly prohibited. Failure to comply may result in eviction with assistance from the RCMP. Any compensation required for impacted guests will be charged to the responsible unit.

Smoking, Alcohol & Cannabis

Smoking of tobacco or cannabis is not permitted inside Tipis, Trappers Tents, the Trading Post, or washrooms. A $100 cleaning fee will apply if this policy is violated.

Alcohol and cannabis may only be consumed on your designated site and must not be carried around the campground. Please fully extinguish smoking materials before disposing of them in designated areas.

Food Attractants

Storing food, coolers, attractants, or garbage inside tents or Tipis is strictly prohibited. Guests must follow Alberta Parks Bear Safety & Food Rules.

All attractants must be stored in a vehicle overnight or whenever you are away from your site. Fines start at $250.

Flora

Please do not pick flowers or attach items to trees. As Sundance is located within Kananaskis Provincial Park, damaging vegetation is illegal. Fines start at $250.

Pets

All pets must be registered, leashed (maximum 10 feet), and under control at all times. Pets may not be left unattended and are not permitted in or around Tipi sites, the Trading Post, or washrooms.

We reserve the right to require immediate removal of any pet displaying aggressive or unacceptable behaviour. Pets ($25, max two per unit).

Tent Sites

All tents and units must be registered prior to arrival. Only select sites allow additional tents. All tents must be set up on gravel areas only — not on grass or in trees.

Campfires

Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits only and must never be left unattended. Fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited. Please check for fire restrictions before lighting a fire.

Dishwashing

Dishwashing must be done at your site using a wash basin. Do not wash dishes at water wells or in washrooms.

Scrape all food scraps and grease into a garbage bag before washing and dispose of bags in bear-proof bins promptly. Grey water may be dispersed over a wide area in the bushes.

Filming & Photography

Drones, commercial filming, sponsored content, or professional photo/video shoots are not permitted without prior written approval from management.

Guests may take non-commercial photos or videos for personal use only and must respect the privacy of others.