Provincial parks shut down

BC Parks has announced an immediate closure of all provincial parks in response to the call for increased action to address COVID-19.

The temporary measure means people should not be going to provincial parks until further notice with Kalamalka Lake Park the big one in the Greater Vernon area.

The decision was made due to feedback from RCMP, local governments, First Nations and the public that some people continue to ignore the physical distancing orders.

“I understand and share the love people in British Columbia have for the outdoors and the connection between health and proximity to nature. We tried to provide safe space for people to get some exercise and fresh air in our beautiful parks. But it has proven too challenging to maintain safe distance between visitors. This action is difficult but necessary. We look forward to the day we can welcome people back to our wonderful parks,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy

The timing of this decision is important given the upcoming long weekend and the beginning of the busy season for outdoor recreation and camping. BC Parks is also extending the ban on all camping in provincial parks until May 31, 2020, in alignment with neighbouring jurisdictions and the temporary closure of Canada’s national parks. Refunds for bookings up to May 31 will be sent automatically.

As previously announced, the Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations has also closed its campgrounds and amenities in response to the COVID-19 situation.