Three Parks' Seasons Extended As Reservation Line Opens

Government is keeping three provincial parks open five weeks longer than usual this season to meet public demand.

“We have seen interest growing steadily, so we are giving park enthusiasts more time to enjoy these popular camping and hiking places this season,” said Lloyd Hines, Minister of Natural Resources. “People just love our provincial parks!”

Mira River Provincial Park in Cape Breton, which used to close on Sept. 12, will stay open until Oct. 15. Blomidon Provincial Park in Kings County and Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park in Yarmouth County, used to close on Sept. 5 but will now stay open until Oct. 9.

The number of camper nights booked in provincial parks open in September and October has almost doubled over the last four seasons. Parks open in the fall months have seen an increase in camper nights from 5,732 in 2012 to 10,154 in 2016.

The province’s campsite reservation line for the 2017 season opens Sunday, April 2.

Campers seeking to reserve sites in any provincial parks can book a campsite at 1-888-544-3434. Reservations may also be made online at https://parks.novascotia.ca.

Almost all provincial day-use and many camping parks will begin to open on the Victoria Day weekend in May. Some camping parks typically do not open until June. Park opening dates for 2017 will be announced in May.

Park users are urged to check for updated information at https://parks.novascotia.ca. The site also offers information about numerous events happening at provincial parks this season.

There are millions of visits to provincial beaches and parks each year. Visitors to provincial parks can enjoy swimming, camping, paddling, nature exploration, geocaching, and other activities.