The Ontario government has reversed the earlier decision of provincial parks closure until May 31.
Today, the Government announced that it is opening provincial parks and conservation reserves for limited day-use access from May 11, 2020.
Over 500 non-operating Ontario Parks and conservation areas will open on Monday, May 11, 2020, with the remaining 115 operating provincial parks will open on Friday, May 15, 2020.
Day-use fees will not be charged until May 31, 2020.
All health orders including mandatory physical distancing remain in place.
The opening of conservation areas managed by 36 Conservation Authorities located across Ontario will vary. Verify whether those areas are open before travelling.
Activities allowed in provincial parks
- Recreational activities will be limited to walking, hiking, biking and birdwatching.
What is not allowed
At this time,
- camping and other activities are not permitted at any provincial park or conservation reserve.
- All buildings and facilities including washrooms, water taps, campgrounds, backcountry campsites, roofed accommodations, playgrounds, and beaches are closed.
“As we continue to make progress in our fight to stop the spread of COVID-19, we are carefully and cautiously reopening the province, starting with certain businesses and retailers, and now our provincial parks and conservation reserves,” said Premier Ford. “I encourage people to get out and enjoy the outdoors, but please do so in a responsible way. Practise physical distancing and follow the rules set out by health care officials to stop the spread of this virus.”
Before travelling, verify whether the park is open.
View Comments (2)
There is no list of the actual Provincial parks that opened on May 11, 2020.
I had to ask the Wasaga bylaw officer to discover that it won’t open until Friday.
Is there somewhere to check this?
Only non-operating parks opened on May 11. Operating parks will open on May 15th. Use Park locator, link in the article to verify.