There’s still a lot of apprehension as people consider visiting places that have reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that’s not the case for local parks.
“Day-use demand has been much higher than in previous years here and across the province,” said Scott Thomas, superintendent at Bass Lake, Mara and McRae Point provincial parks.
People had been itching to get outdoors after being cooped up inside and, even if all of the typical amenities aren’t available, they’ve been flocking to local parks.
Bass Lake is the only one of the three local provincial parks that usually offers watercraft rental and has an on-site store. Both remain unavailable this season, but that hasn’t deterred visitors.
“The demand for outdoor recreation like picnicking, camping and beach going has been extremely high,” Thomas said.
That demand doesn’t mean there have been more visitors than usual, as the parks are only allowing in about half the number of people they would usually see.
“No one has complained about there being too many people in our parks,” Thomas said, adding the majority of visitors have been understanding of the restrictions. “In general, park visitors are really thankful. They’re happy to be enjoying time outside.”
Like other places, there have been extra cleaning measures at local parks to ensure the safety of visitors. Park staff have been doing their part, and they’re counting on visitors, too, “to be responsible and follow the public health advice,” he said.
Thomas had a message for those who are still nervous about getting back to parks.
“Camping is a really safe and healthy way to enjoy the outdoors,” he said, assuring visitors their safety is “the top priority.”
Thomas thanked his staff for their efforts during the pandemic.
“All the parks teams have worked so hard and diligently,” he said. “We’ve really worked extraordinarily hard to make all of this happen.”
The local parks opened for limited day use in mid-May. They began offering camping June 22.
Mara Provincial Park will close the day after Labour Day. Bass Lake and McRae Point provincial parks will close the day after Thanksgiving Monday.
