The Yukon Government has officially launched a new campsite reservation service, a move announced by Minister Nils Clarke.
This innovative service aims to streamline the camping experience in some of the territory’s most popular road-accessible front and backcountry campgrounds. By aligning with other jurisdictions across Canada, this system ensures that both Yukoners and visitors can secure a campsite upon their arrival, enhancing the overall planning and camping experience.
The reservation service, accessible through a digital dashboard, allows campers to book their spots in advance at yukon.goingtocamp.com. Starting March 6 at 9 am Yukon Standard Time (YST) for backcountry sites and April 10 at 9 am YST for frontcountry sites, the system requires users to either use or create a MyYukon account for reservations. This digital approach facilitates easier planning for those looking to explore the Yukon’s natural beauty.
In addition to the reservation service, Yukon Parks is set to further improve camping experiences in 2024. The focus will be on enhancing recreational offerings and increasing the number of available campsites. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enriching outdoor activities and accessibility for campers throughout the territory.
The Government of Yukon plans to add 45 new campsites across several parks, including Tatchun Lake, Snafu Lake, and Ethel Lake campgrounds. These additions are part of a broader effort to expand and improve the camping infrastructure.
Improvements are not limited to new campsites. The announcement also includes plans for new boat launches and the enhancement of docks and accessible infrastructure at Nunatuk and Teslin Lake campgrounds. Furthermore, Rancheria Falls, Lapie Canyon, Snafu, and Tatchun Lake campgrounds will see trail improvements aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and ensuring safety.
A significant aspect of the enhancements involves honoring and celebrating the Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation at Tatchun Lake. The plan includes language, signage, and educational events, alongside the addition of 26 new campsites and five walk-in sites. This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to respecting and integrating cultural heritage into the camping experience.
These developments build upon previous efforts to enhance Yukon’s camping facilities. Last year, the government opened 45 additional campsites at Congdon Creek and Wolf Creek Campgrounds, among other improvements across the territory. Since 2020, over CA$5.3 million has been invested in upgrading campgrounds, highlighting the ongoing commitment to improving outdoor recreational spaces.
The Yukon is home to 42 frontcountry campgrounds with over 1100 campsites, 103 of which will now be available for reservation. This modernized system marks a significant improvement from the past 12 years, during which backcountry campgrounds have been reservable. The new system aims to simplify and modernize the reservation process, making it more user-friendly and accessible.
Participating frontcountry campgrounds, including Pine Lake, Marsh Lake, Wolf Creek, and Tombstone Mountain, will allocate 50% of their campsites for reservations. The remaining sites will continue to operate on a first-come-first-served basis. This hybrid approach ensures flexibility and accessibility for all campers.