Manitoba’s (Canada) provincial parks in the southern region will begin their camping season this weekend, signaling the start of an exciting period for outdoor enthusiasts and the campground industry alike.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Tracy Schmidt made the announcement earlier this week, highlighting a series of improvements made to enhance the camping experience.
Schmidt expressed the collective anticipation of many Manitobans ready to enjoy the great outdoors. “I know many Manitobans, like me and my family, are eager to head out to the great outdoors to camp at one of our province’s beautiful provincial parks,” she said. Schmidt encourages residents to use this season to explore the natural beauty the parks offer and create lasting memories.
Among the notable improvements, the Nutimik Lake Museum at Whiteshell Provincial Park has undergone significant redevelopment. Additionally, families can look forward to new playgrounds installed at Kiche Manitou in Spruce Woods, Winnipeg Beach, White Lake in Whiteshell, and Whitefish Lake, enhancing recreational options for younger visitors.
Further upgrades include completed projects on water and wastewater treatment systems at Asessippi, Birds Hill, and Paint Lake provincial parks, ensuring sustainable services for visitors. Bakers Narrows Provincial Park has also seen the addition of a new washroom and shower facility, improving comfort and accessibility.
All provincial park campgrounds are scheduled to open by the May long weekend. Reservations for campsites, cabins, yurts, and group-use areas can be made through the Parks Reservation Service, accessible online or by phone. This streamlined process is part of ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experience from booking to stay.
These enhancements not only serve to improve the experience within provincial parks but also have positive ramifications for nearby private campground and outdoor hospitality operators. By increasing the appeal of provincial parks, these improvements are likely to attract more visitors to the region, creating spillover benefits for local businesses in the outdoor recreation industry. Enhanced park facilities encourage longer stays and repeat visits, which in turn drives up demand for local services and amenities.
The updates and regulations introduced this camping season align with broader efforts to support the outdoor recreation industry in Manitoba. By investing in infrastructure and visitor services, the province aims to bolster tourism and recreation, ensuring that the natural and economic benefits of Manitoba’s provincial parks are sustained well into the future.