With the summer camping season approaching, British Columbians are now able to begin reserving spots for a provincial vacation as of March 8.
The BC Parks Discover Camping reservation service opened on Monday at 7 a.m., offering available reservation dates up to two months in advance.
Reservations will continue to become available on a rolling basis as spring continues, with residents unable to book reservations beyond a two-month window.
According to the Province, BC residents have priority access to campsite reservations throughout the season with the system opening to non-provincial residents on July 8.
Although camping is an outdoor activity, the province advises that it will “not be business as usual in many campgrounds” as campgrounds will work to follow public health guidelines.
“Changes are being made to ensure everyone has a safe visit, such as how many people can be in a campsite and restrictions on group sites,” reads a statement from the government.
The Province adds that reservations for day-use facilities, including picnic shelters and halls, will remain closed for the 2021 season at this time.
Although protocols have been established at this time for the 2021 season, the Province acknowledges that public health guidelines for gatherings may change between the time of booking a campsite and a scheduled arrival date.
“All camping parties must ensure they meet current public health guidelines for gatherings, even if those allowed numbers are less than the maximum site allowance,” says the government.
The Discover Camping booking portal can be found here.
While the government is recommending campers choose a site close to home in order to avoid travel, BC Parks is suggesting residents be prepared with backup options for preferred sites and dates.
More information on reservations and facilities, including up-to-date information on the status of favourite provincial parks can be found at bcparks.ca
Graham Cox
