Tunnel Mountain Campground Review: The Ultimate Basecamp for Big RVs in Banff Location: Banff, Alberta, Canada

If you’re rolling into Banff National Park with a large Class A RV, Tunnel Mountain Campground is your go-to destination. As the only full-service campground (50 amp electric, water, Sewer) in Banff accommodating rigs over 40 feet, it’s a rare gem for big-rig travelers. Here’s why it’s a standout—and what you need to know before you book. 

Location & Accessibility 

Nestled just minutes from downtown Banff, Tunnel Mountain’s central location puts you within easy reach of the park’s iconic sights. But a word to the wise: GPS directions can be misleading. Many devices route RVs through Banff’s bustling town center, but there’s a simpler way. Follow the first official campground sign—it’ll save you the hassle of navigating crowded streets. 

Campground Vibes & Amenities 

This isn’t your typical wooded, secluded campground. Instead, Tunnel Mountain is designed for efficiency and convenience, with pull-through sites arranged in a grid-like layout along paved roads. While the spaces are linear and lack privacy (think parking-lot adjacency with tree buffers), they’re spacious, level, and ideal for quick setups. Plus, the location more than compensates: 

Wildlife Encounters: Herds of elk frequently wander through the grounds—we spotted them grazing near our site multiple times! 

Trails & Transit: Hike directly from the campground to scenic trails, or hop on the nearby shuttle to explore downtown Banff car-free.

E-Bike Adventures: We loved cruising into town on e-bikes, with attractions like Bow Falls and the Banff Gondola just a short ride away. 

Booking Tips: Act Fast or Miss Out

Tunnel Mountain’s popularity means spots vanish quickly. Here’s how to snag a reservation: 

1. Create a Parks Canada account ahead of time. 

2. Mark the booking opening date for your travel window—reservations for summer often sell out within hours. 

3. Log in the minute bookings open and prepare for a virtual queue. Patience is key! 

Check-In Strategy 

Arrive early if you can. Lines of RVs waiting to check in during peak times (after 2 PM) can be daunting. We lucked out with an early arrival and bypassed the chaos, but this isn’t guaranteed. Plan for potential delays or explore Banff while waiting for your site.

Final Verdict 

Tunnel Mountain Campground isn’t about rustic charm—it’s about location, convenience, and accessibility for large RVs. If you prioritize easy access to Banff’s attractions, wildlife sightings, and stress-free parking, this is your spot. Just book early, pack your e-bike, and get ready to explore one of Canada’s most stunning parks.