Located in the heart of Kananaskis Country, just over an hour from Calgary, Sundance by Basecamp offers a relaxed mountain camping experience with a little extra comfort built in. Guests can choose from campsites, tipis, glamping tents, family tents, and trapper’s tents, making it an easy summer basecamp for families, couples, and friends.
Whether you are booking opening weekend, planning a family getaway, or looking for a quick escape from Calgary, here is how to make the most of Sundance this season.
Why Visit Sundance for May Long Weekend
May long weekend is when Kananaskis starts to feel alive again.
The days are longer, the trails are starting to open up, and the first real campfire evenings of the year finally feel within reach. Sundance is especially great for anyone who wants the feeling of camping without starting entirely from scratch. The trapper style, bell canvas and tipi tents offer a rustic stay with a few welcome comforts, including flooring, vinyl covered mattresses, a covered deck, picnic table, fire pit, indoor heater and access to a lantern at check-in.
That means less time setting up and more time doing what you came for: mountain air, river walks, campfire dinners, and slow mornings outside.
What’s Happening This Summer at Sundance
Opening weekend is just the beginning. Guests can look forward to a lineup of mountain-inspired events and on-site activations designed to make evenings at camp even more memorable.
From fireside storytelling to movie nights and guided stargazing, these experiences are a simple way to add something special to your stay while still keeping the weekend relaxed.
Bear Storytelling at the Communal Firepit
Gather around the communal firepit for an evening of bear storytelling led by a local guide with 20 years of experience working with bears in Kananaskis.
Sessions will take place on July 24 and 25 and August 21 and 22, from 6-7pm on Fridays and from 7-8pm on Thursdays. It is a great way for guests to learn more about the wildlife that makes Kananaskis so special while enjoying a classic evening at camp.
Movie Nights in the Mountains
Sundance is also planning outdoor movie nights under the mountain sky, with the first event on Canada Day, July 1st, and continuing on July 3rd and 4th.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own camp chairs or blankets, then settle in for a relaxed evening outdoors. Movie night packages, including popcorn, drinks, and snack combos, will be available for purchase at the Trading Post.
Guided Stargazing Experiences
For a deeper look at the night sky, Sundance will host guided stargazing experiences on August 14th and 15th, as well as September 4th and 5th.
Led by astronomy authors Peter McMahon and Kayleen Olson, this guided telescope tour gives guests the chance to learn about constellations, planets, and the night sky from experienced hosts.
Pricing is $40 per adult, $20 per youth ages 6–17, and free for children under 6. Capacity is limited, making this an intimate and memorable evening experience.
Things to Do Near Sundance This Summer
Kananaskis is made for summer adventure, and Sundance puts you close to some of the best ways to enjoy it.
Spend the day hiking nearby trails like Troll Falls, Barrier Lake Lookout, or the lakeside paths around Upper Kananaskis Lake. For time on the water, plan a paddle at Barrier Lake or Upper Kananaskis Lake, then take the scenic route along Highway 40 for mountain views, picnic stops, and classic K-Country scenery.
For a bigger day out, explore some of our favourite local experiences. Plan a horseback ride with Boundary Ranch, a guided fishing trip with Optimal Angling, a scenic flight with Alpine Helicopters, or a rafting experience with Canmore Raft Tours. You can also explore more of the Rockies with Pursuit Adventure Centre, Banff Canyoning, and Via Via Shuttles.
When you book direct, your confirmation email includes details on available partner offers, booking links, and instructions for redeeming guest perks. These discounts can help you add more to your trip with local partners near Kananaskis, Canmore, and Banff.
Book one signature activity and leave the rest of the weekend open, or build a fuller itinerary with a different experience each day. Explore more of our current activity and adventure discounts and plan your trip before your stay.
What to Pack for Summer Camping in Kananaskis
Summer weather in Kananaskis can change quickly, so pack for warm days, cool evenings, and the chance of rain.
Bring layers, a rain jacket, sturdy shoes, extra socks, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. For evenings at camp, pack a flashlight or headlamp, camp chairs or blankets, snacks, easy meals, and a few games or books.
A little extra preparation goes a long way, especially if you plan to hike, paddle, join movie night, or spend time around the fire.
Make Sundance Your Summer Basecamp
Whether you are bringing the kids, planning a couple’s escape, or organizing a weekend with friends, Sundance is the place to settle in, slow down, and spend more time outside.
Book your summer stay at Sundance by Basecamp and start planning your Kananaskis long weekend.
