The Manitoba government has announced that it is offering free entry to all provincial parks for a full week in mid-July.
“Manitobans love spending time outdoors during the summer and we are helping families have the chance to enjoy our parks without paying park entry fees,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Tracey Schmidt. “Our government is lowering costs for families by covering park fees for the week. This is the perfect week to plan a visit to one of our beautiful provincial parks.”
Vehicle permits will not be required to visit provincial parks from July 15 to 21. Nightly camping fees still apply, as do entrance fees to national parks. Individuals who wish to camp in a provincial park can make a reservation through the Parks Reservation Service at manitobaparks.com or by calling 1-888-482-2267.
Visitors to Manitoba’s provincial parks enjoy some of the lowest entry fees in Canada. This week-long initiative, along with other free park access opportunities through the year, aims to ensure cost is not a barrier for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. The minister added the Manitoba government chose to freeze provincial park fees for this camping season to help more Manitoban families enjoy the province’s parks.
Park interpreters are offering free guided hikes, campfire talks and other family programs this weekend and through the summer for visitors to connect to the natural features, culture and history in provincial parks. Several campgrounds have also organized special events to celebrate Canada’s Parks Day on Saturday, July 20. Interpretive program information is available online at www.manitobaparks.com or visitors can check with the local campground office for details on any activities happening in the park.
Tips for visitors and campers at Manitoba provincial parks include:
- check the Manitoba Parks website at 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;
- wear a life-jacket when participating in water-related activities, especially boaters, children and weak swimmers;
- 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.
Watercraft users and beach goers are reminded to be vigilant against aquatic invasive species. Always clean, drain, dry and, if necessary, decontaminate watercraft and water-related equipment. Information on aquatic invasive species and decontamination station locations is available at manitoba.ca.
