With the May long weekend right around the corner, some may be looking to explore Saskatchewan’s Provincial Parks, however, there are some things you need to know before you go.

Although the camping season does not commence until June 1, they will be open for residents to enjoy beforehand, with some restrictions in place including:

• Provincial Parks will only be open for day use, no overnight stays prior to June 1
• No washroom facilities will be open this weekend or before June 1
• Beaches, play structures and picnic areas are closed to the public, this will be ongoing into the camping season, or until further notice.

Robin Kampese, executive director of visitor experience for Sask Parks, said outside of the aforementioned restrictions, there is still plenty to do and encourage people experience the parks this weekend.

“Some great things people can take part in this weekend at our parks is fishing, our boat launches will be open, biking and hiking – I would remind people though to continue practicing the physical distancing measures that have been implemented.”

Kampese also stated for visitors to bring their own water, food and hand sanitizer.

“We know people are used to being able to do different things within the parks, but it is still great and can be very therapeutic to get out into nature and we really encourage people to still come out and enjoy the parks,” said Kampese.

As per normal, conservation officers and park rangers will be patrolling the parks and will be keeping an eye out for those who are violating the previous, and new, rules and regulations of the parks.

Kampase shared that they, along with the rest of the province, have been busy adapting to the pandemic but said they have an immense amount of pride in the parks and also being there for the people of Saskatchewan. She said the work involved to date has definitely been worth it.