Ideal Camping Sites in the Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories in Canada include the region of northern and northwestern Canada, which lies in the vast areas of forests and tundra. These areas have encompassed more than one-third of the Canadian territory throughout most of the 20th century. Northwest Territories have reduced its area by more than a half after the creation of the Nunavut territory in 1999. The Northwest Territories is bordered in the east by Nunavut while it is bounded on the west by Yukon. Meanwhile, it is bound to the south by the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. The said territory is home to beautiful spots, which are mainly natural attractions. From magnificent mountains to splendid lakes and rivers, there are many scenic spots that you can explore in this Canadian region.

Where to Go Camping in the Northwest Territories

If you are looking for an ideal camping site where you can spend your vacation, then you might want to visit the Northwest Territories. Many natural attractions dwell in this region, which are also excellent locations for road tripping, hiking, and even mountain climbing. Try to do all of these exciting activities when you camp in the following places:

Dempster Highway - The Dempster Highway stretches 737.5 kilometres that offer spectacular views of the Richardson and Oglivie mountain range. It bounds for the 8800-hectare park that connects visitors to campgrounds and other scenic locations. Along this highway are several camping sites and hiking trails that you can explore. The best thing about the Dempster Highway is it offers many camping grounds with excellent camping facilities. Here are some of the campsites that you can choose from:

• Eagle Plains - Chill in your hammock as you watch the breathtaking views of the arctic tundra. Visiting the Eagle Plains allows you to camp under the stars and watch the spectacular sunrise. Besides stargazing and sunrise viewing, the Eagle Plains is also an ideal spot to witness the aurora borealis. This campground is situated between Dawson City and Inuvik. It is the only stop where you can avail of a variety of services and amenities, from gas stations to washrooms and showers.

• Gwich'in Territorial Campground - To camp in this place, you need to avail camping permits which you can get upon arrival. Online reservation is not available since there is no internet access in this location. The facilities in the campground include 15 non-powered campsites and four tent sites, so you have to plan for your trip here. Try to bring a right-sized camping tent or hammock, and extra batteries for your equipment. Although there is no internet access, there are many engaging activities that you can do. You may go fishing in the stunning shoreline of the Campbell Lake, hike in the available trails, search for unique rocks and fossils, and swim above the Arctic Circle.

• Vadzaih Van Tshik Campground - This campsite is available at all times, but you have to book your trip here at the gatehouse of this park. It is because this place has no internet access, which prohibits online reservations. If you are planning to visit Vadzaih Van Tshik Campground, make sure to explore the site and check if it has complete camping facilities. It will help you identify which camping gears to bring.

Great Bear Lake - Great Bear Lake is dubbed as the largest lake located inside the Canadian borders, fourth-largest lake in North America and the world's eight-largest lake. Its water flows from the Great Bear River into the Mackenzie River. This national treasure has some of the world's greatest freshwater lakes, which you can explore once you visit the place. Choosing Great Bear Lake as your campground allows you to experience world-class fishing. 

Inuvik - Located 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle is where you can find the beautiful town of Inuvik. It serves as a gateway to the Western Arctic. People living in the area still make fishing and hunting as a living. There are many activities that you can do in Inuvik, whatever the season is. During wintertime, you can try cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and even winter camping. Inuvik is also an excellent spot to watch the midnight sun and the natural light show of the Aurora Borealis. Some of Inuvik's best camping grounds include the Happy Valley Territorial Park, Jak Territorial Park, and Racheal Reindeer Camp.

Wood Buffalo National Park - Measuring 45,000 square kilometres in total area, the Wood Buffalo National Park is recognized as the largest national park in Canada. The park is also hailed as a World Heritage Site. It is where you can find herds of wood buffalo and other significant animal species. Wood Buffalo National Park was established in 1922, which aimed to save the last free-roaming herds of wood buffalo from extinction. Camping is available in this park, but the sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you want to camp in Wood Buffalo National Park, then you have to settle the reservation requirements and complete the permits. There are also restrictions in the campground, so make sure to know the camping do's and don'ts in this park.

Yellowknife - Yellowknife is the capital of the Northwest Territories located on the northern shore of the Great Slave Lake. It has a small population which is under 20,000. This city is home to plenty of lakes and walking trails. It is also where you can witness the northern lights, which happen about 240 days per year. Yellowknife offers modern amenities with a small-town feel. This place offers numerous exciting community events that tourists can enjoy. There are also a lot of camping grounds available in this city. You may choose from the territorial campgrounds of Fort Providence, Fred Henne, Reid Lake, and Lady Evelyn Falls.

Pack your camping tent and essential gears to create a memorable camping experience in the Northwest Territories. This Canadian region offers a variety of activities that you will surely enjoy. Camp under the stars, follow the best trails, go fishing in the spectacular lakes, or watch the northern lights - you can do all of these in the Northwest Territories.