Saskatchewan Provincial Parks Opening May Long Weekend

Released on May 12, 2016

Saskatchewan Provincial Parks will officially open for the season on Thursday, May 19, 2016.  Visitation to provincial parks set a record in 2015, with nearly 3.9 million visits.

In 2015, the Government of Saskatchewanmet its commitment of investing an additional $10 million over four years into the provincial park system.  The total investment in capital projects and capital maintenance over the past four years is more than $53 million.

With more reservations than ever booked during this year’s campsite reservation launch, SaskParks is anticipating another successful season.

“Saskatchewan’s provincial parks are where people go to make memories, enjoy recreational activities, and connect with nature,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Mark Docherty said.  “With stunning natural features, fantastic amenities and high-quality programming, it’s no surprise that our parks continue to grow in popularity.”

Saskatchewan Provincial Parks officially open for the season on the May long weekend.  As in past years, an alcohol ban will be in place from Thursday, May 19 to Monday, May 23 inclusive.  This alcohol ban affects all campgrounds and picnic areas within provincial parks and recreation sites.  The ban is also in effect for several regional parks.  Cottages and commercial businesses in provincial parks are not affected by the ban.

The conditions are very dry in much of the province.  All visitors are reminded to keep fires small and attended to at all times.  In some cases, fire restrictions may be in place, prohibiting open fires.  Check www.saskparks.net/FireBan2016 for a complete list of all fire restrictions.

As it is still early in the season, a number of parks may have reduced services.  In some cases, parks may be under a precautionary drinking water advisory as they prepare their water lines for the year.  It is recommended that visitors check ahead for the services that will be available by going to www.saskparks.net/SpringCamping.  A listing of available services is posted and will be updated regularly.

Some campers like to be able to plan their trips well in advance.  This year, online reservations are available at some parks into the fall season, past the Labour Day long weekend.  Certain campgrounds at The Battlefords, Blackstrap, Cypress Hills, Danielson, Douglas, Narrow Hills and Rowan’s Ravine are offering online reservations into September and campsites are available to be booked now.

There are many activities to experience in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks.  From engaging interpretive activities to workshops facilitated by partner organizations, there is always something new to discover.

In 2015, SaskParks launched a Learn to Camp program, aimed at teaching people who are new to nature how to camp.  This program was very popular last year and will be offered again in 2016.  In addition, a Learn to Fish program will launch this summer.

More information, including dates and locations for Learn to Fish will be announced shortly.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Webb
Parks, Culture, Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7828
Email: karen.webb@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-4087