Visitors planning to stay at campgrounds in Banff National Park should be aware that the possession and use of alcohol and cannabis are prohibited during three upcoming long weekends in 2026. Parks Canada has implemented this measure for the Victoria Day, Heritage Day, and Labour Day weekends to improve safety and manage noise levels at 16 popular campgrounds.
The restricted periods are set for May 15 to 18, July 31 to August 3, and September 4 to 7. The ban is in effect starting at 7 a.m. on the first day of each weekend and remains in place until 11 a.m. on the final day. Affected locations include popular sites such as Tunnel Mountain Village I, Tunnel Mountain Village II, Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court, Two Jack Main, Two Jack Lakeside, Johnston Canyon, and Castle Mountain.
Enforcement of these rules is handled by park wardens, who serve as federal peace officers. Anyone found violating the policy faces the immediate cancellation of their camping permit and eviction from the park. Under the Canada National Parks Act, those who ignore the rules could also face charges with a maximum penalty of $25,000. Additionally, campers will not receive refunds for any unused nights if they are evicted for violating this order.
The 2026 order was signed by superintendents Daniella Rubeling and François Masse. The regulation is an extension of a long-standing policy first introduced in 2010 to address concerns regarding excessive partying and noise complaints. Visitors who witness suspicious activity or rule-breaking in the campgrounds are encouraged to contact the Banff Dispatch line at 403-762-1470.
