Camping Season Not Far Away

NOTE: The new camping seasons for each Nova Scotia provincial park follows the release.

Opening and closing dates of camping parks have changed so campers will have more opportunities to enjoy Nova Scotia's provincial parks this year.

Campers have requested more fall camping and the Department of Natural Resources has made it happen. Nine parks have extended the camping season by at least one week.

Provincial parks will continue to provide attractions for all ages and activities for everyone, from the observer to the experienced outdoors person.

"We want to provide as many opportunities as possible for people to experience this province's nature resorts," said Department of Natural Resources Minister David Morse. "Whether you are looking for rest and rejuvenation or a physical challenge, the parks really have it all."

All day-use provincial parks operate from Victoria Day weekend until Thanksgiving Day weekend. Opening and closing dates for camping parks, however, vary.

On April 2, the reservation system opens. The system, implemented last year, lets campers choose campsites within campgrounds. The reservation system can be accessed online or by phone at 1-888-544-3434, between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Reservation fees this year are $6, with a $4 cancellation fee.

"The reservation system was a huge success last year and we expect a rush of early reservations this year," said Mr. Morse. "We encourage everyone to make reservations early to be sure we can accommodate you at the park you'd like, during the time you choose."

There will also be an alcohol-free policy implemented at all parks from opening day until after Canada Day. The alcohol-free period during the start of the season has been in place at some parks in the past, but has now been extended to all provincial parks.

The alcohol-free period has become necessary because of problems, during the early part of camping season that have created negative experiences for clients, and safety concerns for park staff and customers.

"The department is working hard during the off-season to make our parks ready for visitors coming from near and far," said Mr. Morse. "Another season is approaching and we are looking forward to the excitement that comes with Nova Scotia's great outdoors."

For more information, go to the new Nova Scotia Provincial Parks website at www.novascotiaparks.ca .

Following is a list of provincial parks and their opening and closing dates. Last year's dates are in brackets.

Amherst Shore, June 20-Oct. 13 (June 15-Oct. 8) Battery, June 20-Sept. 15 (June 15-Sept. 3) Blomidon, May 16-Sept. 8 (May 18-Sept. 3) Boylston, June 20-Sept. 8 (June 15-Sept. 3) Cape Chignecto, May 9-Nov. 2 (May 11-Nov. 12) Caribou/Munroes Island, June 20-Oct 13 (June 15-Oct. 8) Dollar Lake, May 16-Sept. 15 (May 18-Sept. 3) Ellenwood Lake, May 16-Sept. 8 (May 18-Sept. 3) Five Islands, June 20-Sept. 8 (May 18-Sept. 3) Graves Island, June 20-Sept. 8 (May 18-Oct. 8) Laurie, June 20-Sept. 1 (June 15-Sept. 3) Mira River, June 13-Sept. 15 (June 15-Sept. 3) Porters Lake, May 16-Oct. 13 (May 18-Oct. 8) Rissers Beach, May 16-Oct. 13 (May 18-Oct. 8) Salsman, June 20-Sept. 8 (June 15-Sept. 3) Smileys, June 20-Sept. 8 (June 15-Sept. 3) The Islands, May 16-Sept. 8 (May 18-Sept. 3) Thomas Raddall, May 16-Oct. 13 (May 18-Oct. 8) Valleyview, June 20-Oct. 13 (June 15-Oct. 8) Whycocomagh, June 20-Oct. 13 (June 15-Oct. 8)