Random camping — Alberta/BC Crown-land dispersed camping

Random camping is the Canadian, especially Albertan and British Columbian, term for free dispersed camping on provincial Crown land — outside any organised campground. Usually permitted for up to 14 consecutive days at one location for Canadian residents, sometimes restricted for non-residents.

Allowed on most BC Crown land and Alberta Public Land subject to wildfire and area restrictions. Rules: pack out trash, no permanent structures, fire permit required where designated, 100 m from water sources. Maps: iMapBC, Alberta Public Lands Camping Pass app. Closures are common in summer due to wildfire risk — always check before driving in.