Provincial parks open Thursday

After a record-breaking winter, Saskatchewan Provincial Parks are preparing for another busy season and will be opening Thursday, May 16.

"Our parks are very popular and campers are anxious to get out there," Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty said. "After one of the longest winters on record, it is time to enjoy the summer."

Campers will be able to use the online reservation system at www.saskparks.net to select their campsite, book swimming lessons, check availability or change or cancel a reservation. For those on the go, they can access the mobile site https://skmobile.goingtocamp.com for smartphones, ipad or tablet. It is a quick and easy way to make a reservation before you leave home or while en route to the parks.

There will be a variety of interactive programs to introduce adults and children alike to the history, culture and ecosystems unique to the parks. This season you can take part in guided hikes or voyager canoe tours, campfires with song and stories or pond dipping for aquatic creatures. Each park is home to an array of diverse natural and cultural opportunities.

During 2013, three parks will be celebrating milestone anniversaries. Saskatchewan Landing and Douglas Provincial Parks located on Lake Diefenbaker will each celebrate 40 years. Buffalo Pound Provincial Park located 20 minutes from Moose Jaw will be turning 50. Check the website or Facebook page for ongoing updates throughout the season.

For the May long weekend only, an alcohol ban will once again be in effect in all campgrounds and picnic areas within all provincial parks and recreation sites from Thursday, May 16 until 11 p.m. Monday, May 20, inclusive. Cottages and commercial businesses in provincial parks will not be affected by the ban. The ban will also be in effect in 27 regional parks.

With record snowfall and a late spring, a number of parks will have reduced services available ranging from availability of boat launch and dock facilities to access to dry firewood or hiking trails. A listing of services will be posted and updated regularly on www.saskparks.net starting Monday, May 13.