The Manitoba government is once again offering free entry to all provincial parks for a full week in mid-July, including Canada’s Parks Day weekend, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced today.
In a media release, Nesbitt said “For the third year in a row, our government is providing week-long free provincial park access to coincide with Canada’s Parks Day. This initiative allows all Manitobans to enjoy our parks’ extraordinary natural beauty, intriguing historical sites and diverse recreational activities.”
Vehicle permits will not be required to visit provincial parks from July 10 to 16. Overnight camping fees still apply, as do entrance fees to national parks. Manitoba’s provincial park entry fees are among the lowest in Canada, this week-long offer and other free park access at various times throughout the year help ensure that cost is not a barrier, noted the minister.
The calendar of free interpretive events and experiences including guided hikes, historical tours and campfire talks, is available at https://gov.mb.ca/nrnd/parks/education-and-interpretation/event-listings.html
Several campgrounds have also organized special events to celebrate Canada’s Parks Day on July 15. Visitors can check with the local campground office for details on any activities happening in the park.
Individuals who wish to camp in a provincial park can make a reservation through the Parks Reservation Service at www.manitobaparks.com or by calling 1-888-482-2267.
Tips for visitors and campers at Manitoba provincial parks include:
– check the Manitoba Parks website at www.manitobaparks.com for advisories before travelling;
– all campers must check in at campground offices upon arrival to receive camping permits;
– be ‘Wildlife Smart’ by maintaining a clean campsite, keeping all food, trash, toiletries and cooking utensils locked in a vehicle or trailer, and pack out trash and recyclables before leaving;
– keep all pets on leash; and
– keep all campfires in approved pits such as those found in campsites and check with the campground office for any campfire restrictions.
Campers are reminded that because the emerald ash borer has been confirmed in Winnipeg, no firewood can be transported outside the city. Transportation violations can result in charges and fines of up to $1,300 for individuals or $15,000 for businesses. Firewood is available for purchase from local retailers at most campgrounds.
Manitobans can stay up to date with provincial park news, activities and events by following Manitoba Parks on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MBGovParks or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MBGovParks
