By RYAN KING
SOUTHWEST COAST – Summer in Newfoundland means enjoying some camping in the great outdoors for residents and tourists alike. Those looking to take advantage of our provincial parks will be pleased to know that the department of tourism announced on Wednesday, Aug. 18, the ParksNL Campsite Reservation Service opened all of the remaining campsites in its 13 provincial park campgrounds for reservations.
This means a total of 142 campsites will be added to the pool of sites that residents can book. For those visiting campgrounds around the Southwest coast, this announcement affected the provincial parks like the Sandbanks, J.T. Cheeseman, and Barachois Pond. It also included provincial daily use parks like the Codroy Valley Provincial Park. The increase in the number of available campsites will also come with an increase in amenities.
“Prior to this announcement, all 13 provincial park campgrounds were operating with 85 per cent of campsites open and with every second shower and washroom stall closed,” said Katheryn Summers, Media Relations Manager for Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation.
The previous restrictions were, of course, due to COVID-19. With the pandemic restrictions easing, there will also be reduced requirements related to COVID-19 within the campgrounds.
“Masks are still recommended but no longer required. Anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms must remain at home. Enhanced hygiene and social distancing is still recommended,” said Summers.
Beyond camping and amenities, all of the provincial parks around the region offer scenic beaches and hiking trails for guests. Visit http://www.parksnl.ca to learn more.