The provincial Learn to Camp program teaches the basics of camping and fishing for anyone who is new to nature, or just feels like they need a refresher course. Also, brand new this year, there is a Learn to Fish program.
“Our beautiful parks are where people go to make memories, enjoy recreational activities, and connect with nature,” said Mark Docherty, Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport. “Programs like these make our parks and the activities within them accessible to everyone.”
The Learn to Camp program is in its second year and takes place in three provincial parks over the course of the summer: Echo Valley, Good Spirit Lake and Pike Lake. The ministry provides all of the camping equipment, including tents, camp stoves, lanterns and sunscreen.
Participants bring only their bedding, clothing and food. Parks staff teach participants the basics of camping, like how to set up a campsite, how to start a fire, how to cook outside and much more. Each two-day/one-night program costs $25 per group, which covers the cost of the campsite.
Under the Learn to Camp banner, the ministry also does community outreach sessions. In these sessions, parks staff will travel to a community and speak to a group of people, giving information on provincial parks and how to get active in nature.
The Learn to Fish program is new to the parks this year. This lakeside program will teach participants the fishing necessities. Learn to Fish will take place at several parks this summer, including The Battlefords, Blackstrap, Buffalo Pound, Crooked Lake, Douglas, Duck Mountain, Echo Valley, Greenwater Lake and Meadow Lake. Each session is two hours in length and includes instruction in fish identification, tackle and accessories, fishing rules, regulations and safety, casting, proper fish handling and filleting.
This hands-on program is free with park entry and all equipment and an expert instructor are provided. There is no need to pre-register, though children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit www.saskparks.net/LearnToFish for dates, times and locations.
There are many other activities to experience in Saskatchewan provincial parks. From engaging interpretive activities to workshops facilitated by partner organizations, there is always something new to discover.
For events, activities and updates, visit www.saskparks.net or www.facebook.com/saskparks.
