Saskatchewan Provincial Parks had a great 2012 and as the popularity of parks continues to grow, planning for a successful 2013 season is underway.
"It has been a great year for Saskatchewan Provincial Parks, setting a new visitation record and introducing the new online reservation system," Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty says. "As we plan for our 2013 season, we continue to look for ways to enhance programs and services to ensure parks are accessible to as many visitors as possible."
The 2013 season will begin with the seasonal camping application process opening online at www.saskparks.net on Monday, January 7. Seasonal camping offers the opportunity to secure a campsite for the entire park season from May until September.
The online reservation system saw more than 60,000 reservations made during the 2012 season. Parks has already been receiving inquires for the 2013 season.
Since demand for seasonal sites exceeds supply, the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport allocates sites using a lottery system for the 21 provincial parks that offer the program. Campers complete a park specific application form and submit it. The deadline for applications is Thursday, January 31. The draw to award sites will be held Monday, February 4. There will be some changes to the sites offered so campers must check the listing for their park of choice on the parks website.
For people who prefer, a paper application will still be available by contacting 1-800-205-7070, or [email protected].
The campsite reservation system for overnight camping will start as a staggered launch during the week of March 4 to 8. Parks will be sharing more details about this program as it gets closer to the dates.
Campers will now be able to plan further ahead when booking group campsites. Reservations can be made up to two years in advance by contacting the individual park. This will be great for those who are planning family reunions, group vacations and special events.
During 2013, three provincial parks will be celebrating milestone anniversaries. Saskatchewan Landing and Douglas Provincial Parks located on Lake Diefenbaker will be celebrating their 40th year. Buffalo Pound Provincial Park, located 20 minutes northeast of Moose Jaw, will be turning 50. There will be more information and dates for special events and celebration announcements coming in the New Year.
