Ontario Parks will offer limited backcountry camping, including access points, canoeing and portage routes, and hiking trails. People who have reservations for backcountry camping from June 1 and beyond will be able to take advantage of it.
Under current provincial restrictions, the number of people who can occupy a backcountry campsite during their stay is limited to five, unless they are members of the same household.
“We are all eager to get outside this time of year, and backcountry camping will give people a low-risk way to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors while following physical distancing rules,” said Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “We’re counting on people to be responsible when enjoying our parks and continue to follow all of the public health measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”
The closure of all other overnight campsites and some daytime activities in provincial parks and conservation reserves, which has so far been extended until June 14, will continue to be assessed. Buildings and facilities, including campgrounds, roofed accommodation, visitor centers, park stores, picnic shelters, playgrounds and beaches remain closed. Washroom facilities may be available at some parks – visitors should check their park’s web page at www.OntarioParks.com to check which facilities are available before visiting.
To ensure the safety of visitors and park staff, Ontario Parks continues to perform essential maintenance and other start-up procedures, and to ensure that operational and safety protocols are in place to enable provide access to other recreational activities and facilities when it is safe to do so.
