In a recent release, BC Parks (British Columbia, Canada) reported the record-breaking numbers of reservations made for campsites, day-use passes, backcountry permits, cabins, and picnic shelters in provincial parks this 2022 camping season.
According to the release, over 317,000 reservations were made on the new and improved BC Parks reservation system for the 2022 season—an increase of 26.5% since 2019.
“The new and improved reservation service is more reliable and easy to use, which is reflected in the record number of reservations,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“We listened to people’s suggestions and frustrations and worked hard to address these with our new system. We’ll continue to listen and respond to public feedback to ensure people can easily book and access the thousands of great camping opportunities available throughout our province.”
As per BC Parks, the new reservation system, launched in March, was made to improve digital services to provide better visitors’ experiences from computer to campground.
More accessibility information has been integrated into the new reservation service. The improved reservation system also provides descriptions and photos of accessible facilities and infrastructure, including parking, pathways, and campsites, to help people choose the park that best meets their needs.
“It has been another exceptionally busy season for BC Parks as more people discover and enjoy the health benefits of being in nature,” said Kelly Greene, Parliamentary Secretary for Environment.
“We are working hard to create more camping opportunities in B.C. and improve accessibility so more people can experience the joy of exploring B.C.’s parks.”
BC Parks also highlighted investing CA$21.5 million to expand and enhance opportunities for outdoor recreation, including adding new campsites and trails and upgrading facilities.
Since 2017, more than 1,700 campsites have been added to provincial parks and recreation sites in high-demand areas. Of those sites, 500 are in the Lower Mainland parks, including Cultus Lake, Golden Ears, Chilliwack Lake, Stawamus Chief, and Garibaldi.
Featured image from BC Parks.