Canadians hoping to head out in nature and enjoy an outdoor getaway will have to hold their plans a little longer, as Parks Canada says they are "calling on Canadians to stay home."
On April 15, Parks Canada updated their COVID-19 response, announcing that they are suspending "camping, group activities, and events across the country until at least May 31, 2020."
Camping reservations will now not be available to make until at least June 1, 2020. Those with existing reservations for dates ahead of May 31 will be automatically cancelled and fully refunded.
Additionally, the current suspension of visitor services, vehicle access to Parks Canada sites, and the temporary closure of visitor facilities will remain in place for the time being.
That means facilities like washrooms, parking lots, and day use areas will remain closed, along with all camping facilities. Visitor centres are also closed.
Highways and roadways which pass through Parks Canada places will remain open, however.
"We are following the advice of public health experts and taking steps to support the Government of Canada’s efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce risks to visitors, employees, and other users of Parks Canada spaces," says Parks Canada.
However, Parks Canada says they will still be providing what are considered critical services, which includes "highway maintenance, fire response, dam operations and water management on historic waterways, avalanche control, among others."
