Province Announces Staggered Campground Bookings to Resume May 4

Reservations for Manitoba campgrounds open next week and staggered dates will be offered to make it easier for outdoor enthusiasts to book a site at their favourite campground, Conservation and Climate Minister Sarah Guillemard announced today.

“We thank Manitobans for their commitment in acting on the advice our health-care experts to stay home for the benefits of themselves, their loved ones and their community,” said Guillemard. “It is through their dedication and actions that we are able to allow Manitobans to continue to visit our provincial parks, and we are pleased to open up our campgrounds for the season, with additional safety measures in place. I believe this is welcome news for many Manitobans and their families.

“I encourage everyone to keep practicing the fundamentals of good hygiene and social distancing while at home, and especially while enjoying some quality time outside with their loved ones, whether camping, at the cottage and throughout our beautiful parks.”

Manitobans are reminded to take advantage of the new opportunity to buy a park vehicle pass online as part of the province’s new e-licensing program that launched earlier this year.

To accommodate the expected high demand on the opening day of the parks reservation system, online and call centre services will begin at 7 a.m. at http://prs.gov.mb.ca, 204-948-3333 (in Winnipeg) or 1 888-482-2267 (toll free). Check the website for call centre hours on other days. Customers making online reservations are advised to check their user IDs and passwords prior to May 4. For more information, visit www.manitobaparks.com.

The Manitoba Parks Reservation Service will accept bookings in two phases:
•    May 4 at 7 a.m. campsite reservations open for Winnipeg Beach, Betula Lake, Big Whiteshell, Brereton Lake, Caddy Lake, Falcon Beach, Falcon Lakeshore, Nutimik Lake, Opapiskaw, Otter Falls, West Hawk Lake and White Lake campgrounds; and
•    May 6 at 7 a.m. campsite reservations open for all remaining provincial park campgrounds.

As part of Restoring Safe Services:  Manitoba’s Pandemic and Economic Roadmap for Recovery, additional measures will be in place and enforceable under the public health order, the minister noted. Campers are reminded that current public health orders limit gatherings to 10 people or less and people must continue to practice good hygiene and social distancing protocols. Provincial parks will implement enhanced cleaning procedures and sanitization of public washrooms and shower facilities in the campgrounds. Staff will be monitoring to ensure social distancing is adhered to, especially in public areas like beaches and recreation areas. For more information visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/restoring/phase-one.html#parks.

In addition, campers are reminded there is currently a travel ban north of the 53rd parallel, with certain exceptions for essential travel. While the ban is in effect, anyone from southern Manitoba should not be travelling to a campground in the north. If making a booking for a northern campground (anywhere north of Lake Winnipeg), confirm the travel ban has been lifted prior to the planned camping trip. Out of province campers and visitors must follow the public health orders related to travel including a requirement to self-isolate for 14 days when entering the province.

Walk-in reservations and in-person payment arrangements can be made at 200 Saulteaux Cres. in Winnipeg and will be available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning May 4 for the parks and facilities described above. Be aware that public access to the building is limited due to COVID-19 protocols and may require queuing outside. Online or call centre reservations are preferred.

For more information on the e-licensing program or to purchase a park vehicle pass when the program, visit www.manitobaelicensing.ca.

Manitobans can also stay up to date with provincial park news, activities and events by following Manitoba Parks on Facebook or Twitter at www.twitter.com/MBGovParks.

(Province of Manitoba News Release)