With warmer weather on the horizon, the Manitoba government is encouraging campers to start planning ahead as provincial park campground reservations for the 2026 season open next month. Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes says demand is expected to be strong again this year, and early preparation will help Manitobans secure their preferred sites.
“Manitobans are eager to get outside and enjoy our provincial parks this summer,” Moyes said. “Whether families are planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, our Parks Reservation Service makes it easier to find and reserve the perfect campsite.”
This year, campers will have access to a new availability notification feature, allowing reservation account holders to set up to five alerts. If a site matching their criteria becomes available, users will receive an email notification — a tool aimed at helping more people snag high‑demand spots.
To manage the annual rush, reservations will once again open in stages over five days, beginning April 13. Each day’s bookings open at 7 a.m. online and by phone, with in‑person service available at the Winnipeg office on Portage Avenue.
The staggered schedule begins with cabins, yurts, and group-use areas on April 13, followed by Birds Hill, Winnipeg Beach, and Grand Beach on April 14. Whiteshell campgrounds open April 15, northern and western region campgrounds on April 16, and all remaining locations on April 17. Online users will enter a virtual waiting room before booking opens and may be queued depending on demand.
A new $10 cancellation fee is being introduced this year for reservations cancelled four or more days before arrival. The province says the fee will help reduce speculative bookings and improve overall campsite availability. Cancellations made within three days of arrival will continue to be charged one night’s camping fee.
Campers should also note that Black Lake Campground in Nopiming Provincial Park will remain closed for the 2026 season due to wildfire recovery work. Additional site closures are in place at St. Malo, Hecla‑Gull Harbour, and Grand Beach because of ongoing construction, and reservations are paused for Bay 10 group sites at Spruce Woods during electrical upgrades.
The province encourages campers to update their online accounts and review reservation policies ahead of opening day. More information, including closure updates, is available at manitobaparks.com and on Manitoba Parks’ social media channels.
