Thousands of people are expected to head to BC Parks throughout the province to take in the great outdoors this May long weekend, in what is expected to be another record year for visitor numbers.

Each campground offers its own unique experience, whether visitors want to enjoy a campfire or waterfront picnic, hike some trails, take a swim or simply curl up under a shady tree with a good book.

Families and friends can choose from nearly 100 campsites throughout the province, and can also secure their favourite spots through Discover Camping™, the Province’s camping reservation system. From seaside shorelines to forest enclaves, there’s a provincial campground to suit every camper’s taste, all while showcasing the rugged beauty that B.C. is known for.

New this camping season, outdoor enthusiasts can reserve campsites at Summit Lake, Juniper Beach, Whiskers Point and the Kootenay Lake (Davis Creek campground) provincial parks. Frontcountry campsites are also available in Kentucky Alleyne and the Robson River campground in Mount Robson and provincial parks.

Remember to grab your BC Parks passport when you head out on your adventures - kids will love collecting stickers and stamps towards great prizes when visiting any one of the more than 200 provincial parks and visitor centres.

Children can also learn to cast their own fishing lines through the free Learn to Fish program offered in many provincial parks. The popular program, jointly run with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, is held in various locations throughout the province.

Grab your family, friends and favourite roasting sticks and visit DiscoverCamping.ca to book your next adventure.

Quotes:

Mary Polak, Environment Minister -

“I encourage everyone to head outside and take advantage of our many beautiful BC Parks. Camping is a great way to make some memories with friends and family. People can also enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing and other activities while at campgrounds. Discover Camping is a great way to secure your favourite spots for the season.”

Quick Facts:

• This year marks the 75th anniversary of Elk Falls Provincial Park, one of the most popular on Vancouver Island.
• There are 1, 029 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas covering more than 14 million hectares of the provincial land base
• B.C. provincial parks receive over 21 million visits each year.
• In 2014, more than 133,000 reservations were made through Discover Camping - an increase of almost 10% from 2013. 75% of bookings made in 2014 were placed by British Columbians.
• Parking is free in all provincial parks, making them more accessible to families.

Learn More:

To make camping reservations, visit: DiscoverCamping.ca

For more information about different provincial parks and campgrounds, as well as other activities to enjoy while there, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

For tips on making reservations, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/reserve/top_reservations_tips.html

Connect with BC Parks on Facebook: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

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Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834