With many playgrounds across the capital region shut down due to the growing coronavirus pandemic, BC Parks is reminding the public that parks are a still great place for people in province to get out and enjoy nature.
Following the social distancing directives from British Columbia’s provincial health officer, and with BC Parks bringing in some new novel coronavirus protocols, people throughout the province will still be able to enjoy day-use parks.
Day-use services and facilities are currently available at the following provincial parks:
- Mount Seymour Provincial Park – access restricted to some lower-elevation trails. Parking and road access are closed.
- Cypress Provincial Park – access restricted to some lower-elevation trails. Parking and road access are closed.
- Goldstream Provincial Park
- Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
- Miracle Beach Provincial Park
- Wells Gray Provincial Park
“Nature provides the perfect environment to promote health and well-being,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“We are following the advice of the provincial health officer to help people get outside, while ensuring they are following the PHO’s direction and guidance to stay healthy.”
Day hiking is still encouraged in most provincial parks – although there will be a temporary suspension of services and facility closures.
The temporary measures include the suspension of services at marine parks, visitor centres, nature houses, washrooms and day-use facilities.
In alignment with Parks Canada, all campgrounds, camping opportunities and accommodations will be closed until at least April 30th, 2020. Refunds will be provided to those with existing reservations during this time..
