Local provincial parks to reopen for limited day use Monday

The Ontario government is opening provincial parks and conservation reserves for limited day-use access.

That will likely be welcome news to many in our area as Awenda, Six Mile Lake and Bass Lake Provincial Parks are popular destinations for local walkers, hikers and outdoors lovers.

The first areas will open on Monday May 11, with the remaining areas opening on Friday May 15.

At this time, recreational activities will be limited to walking, hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Day visitors will also be able to access all parks and conservation reserves for free until the end of the month.  

The announcement was made today by Premier Doug Ford.

"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. Practice physical distancing and follow the rules set out by health care officials to stop the spread of this virus."

On Monday, 520 provincial parks and conservation reserves across the province will open, and the remaining 115 will open on the following Friday for limited day-use activities.

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 continue to be closed.

Over the next several weeks, Ontario Parks' staff will be conducting critical maintenance and other parks start-up procedures, so that more recreational activities and facilities will be available when it is safe to do so.

Before planning your trip visit here to check the status of your local provincial park.